by What are Cinematic parallels?
Cinematic parallels refer to the visual and narrative similarities between different films, shots, or scenes. They can be intentional, for example, when directors and filmmakers pay homage to another movie or scene, or they can be unintentional when similar ideas and compositions appear through different works.
They involve framing, lighting, and camera movement. Narratively, they tend to communicate a similar message or emotional expression, often through character archetypes, plot structures, and themes.
Some films get inspiration from others, and they borrow elements, consciously or unconsciously, showing similarities in visual style or structure. For example, recurring motifs can help us identify cinematic parallels. They suggest a shared cultural or artistic sensibility. Cinematic parallels help connect films through visual and narrative repetitions, they enrich the audience’s experiences, and they can also contribute to a deeper understanding of the same topic. They also highlight how cinematic storytelling is inevitably interconnected.
For example, when I was watching How to Train Your Dragon (2025), I couldn’t stop thinking about the similarities it has with House of the Dragon (2022), Game of Thrones (2011), and obviously, the animated version. After looking at similar framings and actions, I felt like similar messages and emotions were conveyed. For example, when Hiccup is chased and cornered by Toothless. That scene had the same energy and intention as Addam of Hull confronted by Seasmoke. The emotions were also the same, each boy is afraid, and each dragon is aggressive, but soothed by curiosity for contact.
Bonding
When Hiccup touches Toothless for the first time, there is a spark, the beginning of a new bond. I felt the desire for connection from each character: keen on complicity and camaraderie. That same feeling emerges when Jon Snow touches Drogon, this time a fantastic sentiment because we learn he’s, in fact, a Targaryen and heir to the throne. They are both strong and carry a confident aura.
A more compelling touch is when Rhaenyra approaches Vermithor. He is one of the most powerful and feared beasts, known as the “Bronze Fury” for his devastating attacks. Only ridden by King Jaeherys I, his visual contact with Rhaenyra provides a feeling of controlled trust, perhaps respect too. Why did he allow Rhaenyra’s touch? Due to sharing the same blood and personality: strong, calculating, fierce, and intelligent. This is also a cinematic narrative parallel. Dragons and their riders share the same essence and personality. Sort of a “You are me; I am you”.
