How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming

How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming

show

TV-PG, 2020

WISE
87%

WISE Score

7.5

IMDb

A cozy 22-minute return to Berk that wraps the HTTYD saga in a warm holiday hug—sweet, safe, and made for fans who aren't ready to let go.

IMDb7.5
Common Sense Media
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Screenwise Verdict

This is comfort food for How to Train Your Dragon fans. It's not going to blow your mind or teach your kid quantum physics, but it will make you feel warm and a little misty-eyed if you've been on this journey with Hiccup since 2010.

The 22-minute runtime is perfect—it doesn't overstay its welcome or try to be more than it is. It's a holiday special that actually feels special, not like a cash grab. The animation is gorgeous, the voice cast is back, and the message about honoring the past while building the future is delivered without being preachy.

Is it essential viewing? No. But if your family loves this universe, it's a lovely way to say goodbye. And in a media landscape full of reboots and sequels that nobody asked for, a short that respects its characters and fans deserves credit.

Age Fit

Common Sense Media says 7+, but honestly, if your 5-year-old has handled the movies, they'll be fine here—it's gentler than the trilogy. Upper age is really for nostalgic teens and adults who grew up with the franchise.

WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
92

A heartwarming holiday special centered on family, friendship, and tradition. Models kindness, cooperation, and the importance of honoring both old customs and new ways. Hiccup and Toothless's bond remains the emotional core, with gentle humor and zero cynicism. Some mild peril with fire threatening the village, but nothing traumatic.

Imaginative
85

Continues the beloved dragon universe with creative holiday traditions blending Viking culture and dragon companionship. The premise of reviving Snoggletog while dragons have left is inventive, though as a 22-minute special it doesn't break much new ground beyond the established franchise world-building.

Safe
95

Extremely safe viewing. Common Sense Media rates it 7+ (though notes it could work for younger). No violence beyond mild peril, zero inappropriate content, no surprises. IMDb parents guide confirms no concerning content across all categories. This is exactly what you expect from a How to Train Your Dragon holiday special.

Enriching
78

Explores themes of legacy, tradition, and how communities evolve while honoring the past. Shows Hiccup as a parent passing down stories and values. The emotional beats about change and memory are genuine, though it's more of a sweet epilogue than a deeply challenging narrative. Entertainment value is solid for fans.

Parent Info
✓

Why It Might Be Great

  • Delivers emotional closure for families who grew up with Hiccup and Toothless—seeing them as parents is genuinely touching
  • Creates a new holiday tradition (Snoggletog) that blends Viking culture with dragon lore in a way that feels earned, not forced
  • Zero cynicism or cheap laughs; this is pure-hearted storytelling that respects its audience
  • Short runtime (22 min) makes it perfect for a family movie night appetizer or a cozy post-dinner watch
  • Models healthy family dynamics and the importance of storytelling across generations
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What to Watch For

  • Really only hits if you've watched the trilogy—standalone viewers will miss the emotional weight
  • Younger kids (under 6) might find the mild fire peril scary, though it's brief
  • It's an epilogue, not an adventure—don't expect big action or surprises

Conversation Starters

  • "What traditions does our family have that we want to keep going, even when things change?"
  • "If you could have any dragon as a friend like Toothless, what would you want to do together?"
  • "Hiccup tells his kids stories about the dragons—what stories do you want to tell your kids someday?"
  • "How do you think Hiccup feels about the dragons being gone? Is it okay to miss something even if it was the right choice?"

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