A popular animated film of the twenty-first century, How to Train Your Dragon has inspired TV series, sequels, and a live-action adaptation. The live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon is expected to be one of the biggest blockbusters of 2025 and aims to carry on the tradition of the original film.
This is the first iconic DreamWorks animated film to receive this treatment, despite Disney’s propensity to create live-action adaptations of its popular animated films (with another one scheduled for 2025 with Lilo & Stitch). The film’s transition to live-action will bring many new elements, but there are also some recurring elements, such as a cast member from the animated films returning to the role. Continue reading to learn all there is to know about the live-action How to Train Your Dragon.
How to Train Your Dragon Release Date
Mark your calendars! The live-action How to Train Your Dragon is set to release on June 13, 2025. Universal Pictures has positioned the film as a summer blockbuster, aiming to captivate a global audience. The release date is strategically placed to draw in families and fans of the franchise during the peak moviegoing season. The film was shot for IMAX, so when it opens, it will be screened on enormous screens (or regular screens if you don’t want to pay the extra fee).
The Legend is Real. Experience #HowToTrainYourDragon only in theaters June 13! pic.twitter.com/SxYImI7L2Z
— #HowToTrainYourDragon (@HTTYDragon) November 19, 2024
When captured in live action, IMAX might make some of the animation film’s amazing flying scenes genuinely amazing. How to Train Your Dragon is currently available for streaming on Max in the US and digitally on-demand in the UK, if this has you itching to see the original animated masterpiece.
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How to Train Your Dragon Cast
This diverse cast aims to bring a fresh dynamic to the cherished characters, blending familiar portrayals with new interpretations. The film features a talented ensemble bringing beloved characters to life:
- Mason Thames as Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III
- Nico Parker as Astrid Hofferson
- Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s father
- Nick Frost as Gobber the Belch
- Julian Dennison as Fishlegs Ingerman
- Gabriel Howell as Snotlout Jorgenson
- Bronwyn James as Ruffnut Thorston
- Harry Trevaldwyn as Tuffnut Thorston
- Ruth Codd as Phlegma the Fierce
How to Train Your Dragon Plot
Although the cartoon film’s plot is likely well-known to many of you, here is the official synopsis for the live-action How to Train Your Dragon: The live-action adaptation revisits the enchanting tale of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a young Viking from the island of Berk who defies tradition and befriends a dragon named Toothless. Their unexpected bond challenges the longstanding enmity between Vikings and dragons, setting off a journey that transforms their world.
While the core narrative mirrors the original 2010 animated film, the live-action version dives deeper into the characters, offering fresh perspectives and enriched storytelling. Director Dean DeBlois has hinted at more nuanced world-building, addressing unanswered questions and expanding on the relationships between characters. Expect a tale of courage, compassion, and unity that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.
Hiccup stands out on the rocky island of Berk, where dragons and Vikings have been fierce rivals for many years. Hiccup, the creative but underappreciated son of Chief Stoick the Vast, breaks with centuries of custom by becoming friends with Toothless, a Night Fury dragon that is feared. Their improbable friendship challenges the fundamental tenets of Viking civilization by exposing the true nature of dragons.
“With the feisty and aspirational Astrid and the eccentric blacksmith Gobber from the village at his side, Hiccup faces a world ripped apart by mistrust and terror.” Hiccup’s connection with Toothless turns into the key to creating a new future as an old menace that threatens both Vikings and dragons arises. Together, they must forge the precarious route to peace, transcending their respective realms and redefining what it means to be a leader and a hero.
How to Train Your Dragon Production
Dean DeBlois, who directed the original animated trilogy, returns to helm the live-action adaptation as writer, director, and co-producer, ensuring continuity in the storytelling. DreamWorks Animation and Marc Platt Productions are collaborating on the project, with Universal Pictures handling distribution. Filming began in January 2024 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, and wrapped up in May 2024. The decision to shoot on location rather than rely entirely on CGI aims to ground the fantastical elements of the story in realism. The production team includes:
- Bill Pope is the cinematographer, known for his work on visually striking films like The Matrix.
- John Powell, the composer of the original trilogy’s score, returns to create an epic soundtrack that incorporates familiar themes while introducing new melodies.
How to Train Your Dragon Trailer
To be honest, the official teaser trailer for DreamWorks’ How to Train Your Dragon looks fantastic. Visit this link to see it for yourself:
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Conclusion
The live-action How to Train Your Dragon promises to be a cinematic event that honors the legacy of the beloved animated trilogy. With a compelling narrative, a star-studded cast, stunning visuals, and the return of key creatives like Dean DeBlois and John Powell, the film is poised to captivate audiences of all ages.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Berk, this adaptation offers a fresh yet faithful take on the story of Hiccup and Toothless. As the release date approaches, excitement continues to build for what promises to be one of the most anticipated films of 2025.
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