If your initial exposure to “How to Train Your Dragon” has been through the 2010 DreamWorks Animation film directed by Dean DeBlois (Lilo & Stitch) and Chris Sanders (The Wild Robot), then you’re in for a thrilling time with the upcoming live-action version of “How to Train Your Dragon“, which is set to hit theaters on June 13.
In his direction of the live-action film, DeBlois aims to reinvent numerous iconic moments from the animated movie. Moreover, virtually each shot contains a visual tribute or Easter egg that pays homage to the original work. This ranges from nods to author Cressida Cowell’s initial book to an enhancement of the Dragon Manual into the Book of Dragons. There are numerous details to notice.
However, it seems that the most exciting guest appearance might just be that of director DeBlois himself, on the fictional Isle of Berk. Actor Mason Thames (Hiccup) and Nico Parker (Astrid), during our interview for the film’s promotional events, revealed this cameo to NBC Insider.
Additionally, we’ve received a special insight directly from DeBlois about the modifications he intends to make in the upcoming live-action sequel of How to Train Your Dragon 2, which has already been given the green light.
The How to Train Your Dragon Director DeBlois cameo that surprised the actors
During our conversation with Thames and Parker, the topic of intentional Easter eggs in the latest movie surfaced. They were asked if they included anything special in their acting – such as a vocal tribute to the original Hiccup, Jay Baruchel, or a unique interpretation of Astrid that Parker created herself. Both actors confessed to including a few such references.
In a casual explanation of their acting methods, Parker stated, “Things just seem to flow and happen instinctively, without any conscious plan.” They further added, “Sometimes it’s the way you speak or your body language that just develops on its own.
She turned to Thames and remarked, “I recall the scene where you were on Toothless’ tail, and you said, ‘Hmm…’ It reminded me of the animated film. I guess we sometimes unconsciously notice things that occur. However, regarding intentional references in the movie, Dean is indeed present.
In the heart of the village, the leader takes his position, embodying a sturdy Viking warrior from Berk. Surrounded by the bravest villagers, he proudly dons a Viking helmet.
Or, in a more casual tone:
The director stepped up as if he were a tough Viking warrior from Berk, right smack in the middle of our village’s toughest warriors. And guess what? He was rocking a Viking helmet!
On the filming day, I was taken aback when my favorite actor appeared on set, all dressed up like a Viking. In that costume, he was unrecognizable!
Yesterday, Parker was informed that DeBlois could make an appearance, but she was still taken aback. When she saw him on the set, her reaction was something like, “Hey…What’s up, Dean?” followed by a surprised exclamation of, “Oh my God!
In the given scene, Hiccup was meant to jest about DeBlois’ Viking character being large but Thames found it challenging to do so in that particular moment. However, it could be rephrased as: “I felt awkward teasing you, Dean, and then he said, ‘Just look at me straight and I’ll show you my belly.’
DeBlois on the live-action sequel: “My fingers are on the keyboard right now”
At CinemaCon on April 2, 2025, Universal Pictures revealed that they have given the greenlight for DeBlois to start working on the live-action sequel titled How to Train Your Dragon 2. We inquired whether he intends to make minor adjustments or prefer a more daring approach while writing the script.
DeBlois expressed his eagerness to find out what people think about the movie. If they appreciate its authenticity, he hopes it allows for more detailed scenes and corrections of things he feels could have been improved in the past. Since many fans favor the second film, he believes if viewers enjoy the reinterpretation with fresh perspectives and details, that’s the direction he’ll take. However, he’s currently waiting to see the audience’s response before moving forward.
Discover DeBlois among several cameos in the movie “How to Train Your Dragon” which started showing in cinemas from June 13. Purchase your tickets right here!
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2025-06-13 14:32