This was a great movie. A bit more dramatic and darker than the first movie but still amazing. The CGI and special effects are even better. The movie brings up more serious feelings of abandonment, loss, betrayal and pride. There is an increase in fantasy violence but is justified by the storyline. This movie can stand on its own and does not require having previously read the book or viewed the other films. A warning to parents who are uptight, the movie battles are longer and more complex. If you have to whine about violence in movies corrupting your children then don't take them to the movie.