If the 2nd movie is any indication, then they will most likely make sure the new series is much better than “Riders of Berk.” And yes, I have seen the new movie. IT WAS AMAZING!

You’re right, it is rather nitpicky of me! I guess that stems from a lifetime of watching animation studios (particularly the big ones) sell out like crazy and milk every IP they can for all they’re worth. It’s rare when the opposite happens and a focus on quality and story is achieved. We’ll see how this goes come 2015!

That seems like a particular nitpick, as I really don’t mind it coming out later in order to give the creative team the time and effort to turn out the best product possible.

Also, Dean DeBlois has stated intentions for a trilogy, the idea being that it will end in a similar manner to Cressida Cowell’s originating novels (why there are no more dragons).

It’s no Shrek, that much is certain.

But if it were all about the mythology and narrative, would the show not come out in logical order BEFORE the next film? Delay the film until the show releases. I guess we’ll see. I heard they want to do a ton of these HTTYD films. I can’t imagine it not growing stale at some point, but I’ll absolutely reserve judgement until those decades pass. In the end at least the world they’re exploring is interesting, unlike say Turbo!

Nope. Not in the slightest. IMO what I see is an expansion on the mythology and lore of the world. It would be considered crass if there weren’t such a fantastic and dedicated team behind it.

It’s doing what few animated franchises (if ever) do: carefully craft a fleshed out, ‘lived-in’ universe. A ‘seamless narrative’, as Jay put it in an interview.

It’s taking the characters that we all fell in love with back in 2010 and allowing us to grow up with them. Unlike, say, Despicable Me, these characters never feel like they are in complete and utter stasis.

I’m very excited that they are picking up with the development of Hiccup and co into the characters they are in the 2nd movie.

I hope the quality is at least at a high level for this show. It would be a real shame to make it a quick and easy cash-cow.