How ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ (2025) Became the Best Live-Action Adaptation Ever

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Embargo: June 8th at 11pm PT / June 9th 2am ET

2025’s “How To Train Your Dragon” (Live Action) is an upcoming film that brings to life the beloved animated movie, itself derived from Cressida Cowell’s book series. In this adaptation, Mason Thames plays Hiccup and Nico Parker takes on Astrid’s role. Gerard Butler returns as Stoick. It’s the first installment in what viewers anticipate will become a live-action trilogy. A sequel has already been given the go-ahead.

Translating the beloved animated series “How to Train Your Dragon” into live-action is no small feat, as we’ve seen with the critical reception of recent Disney remakes. When I learned that a live-action adaptation was in the works for this near-perfect trilogy, my optimism was cautious at best. As I sat down to watch it, my stomach filled with butterflies, fearing that it would tarnish everything I cherished about the original. However, I could not have been more off base.

From the instant Toothless, a dragon resembling a beloved pet to any rational spectator, graced the screen, I was reduced to tears. This emotional state persisted until the credits began to roll. Never have I witnessed such a flawlessly adapted story, which fills me with optimism for the upcoming trilogy.

How To Train Your Dragon (2025) Was Clearly Made By People Who Love The Original

The initial positive sign about this film is that its director is Dean DeBlois, who previously co-wrote and co-directed the animated versions. He has always cherished the story, and his affection for it remains unchanged. He views these live-action movies as an opportunity to delve deeper into certain aspects he had wanted to explore more extensively with limited time and resources in the past. It’s important to note that this film is not intended to replace the animated version; should you ever want to revisit it, the original will still be available (and I personally do so annually, so I won’t judge if you do too).

Apart from DeBlois, the entire cast shares a deep enthusiasm for this story. Their dedication shines through on screen, suggesting they were determined to remain faithful to the original. Interestingly, the young actors portraying the characters in this version grew up with the How to Train Your Dragon animated trilogy, which might explain their convincing performances.

Mason Thames proudly shared that he dressed up as Hiccup for Halloween previously, ensuring he would bring nothing less than his absolute best to set. Indeed, he flawlessly portrays the main character, seamlessly slipping into the role of Hiccup from the get-go.

Nico Parker delivers an exceptional performance in this film, adding a unique touch to the character Astrid. This interpretation allows viewers to gain a deeper understanding of Astrid, while still preserving the charm we’ve come to appreciate from her in the animated version. Their on-screen duo is simply astounding, with a chemistry that radiates vividly on the screen.

As a passionate cinephile, let me share my enthusiasm for the stellar cast chosen for this upcoming movie: Gabriel Howell brings Snotlout to life, Julian Dennison breathes essence into Fishlegs, Bronwyn James embodies Ruffnut, and Harry Trevaldwyn is perfect as Tuffnut. These teenage vikings are poised to deliver both laughter and tears. Filming this movie was an unparalleled joy for them, and I eagerly anticipate the magic they’ll weave in the sequel.

Absolutely, it’s not surprising that Gerard Butler, who portrayed Stoick superbly in the animated film “How to Train Your Dragon”, is perfectly suited for reprising this role. He slips back into it effortlessly, given his deep understanding of Stoick. This familiarity allows him to convincingly express the emotional depth of Stoick’s bond with his son, Hiccup.

The Visual Effects Are Phenomenal

The toughest feat, perhaps, was successfully creating dragons that appeared authentic and believable in their environment, rather than overly cartoonish. A delicate balance was required to make them look real while also conveying emotion, particularly for Toothless, whose portrayal was crucial and could potentially ruin the entire film if mishandled.

It’s terrific that Toothless turned out flawlessly, as the visual effects team truly excelled in making his facial expressions convey the narrative. It feels authentic, leaving no doubt that he seems real and that his relationship with Hiccup starts off shaky but ultimately becomes indestructible by the movie’s end.

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The flying scenes, the battle sequences, and the dragon designs are all flawlessly done. Add in the fantastic sets and costumes, and it feels as if you’ve actually stepped onto the Isle of Berk. Take my word for it, once you’re there, you won’t want to leave.

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Overall Thoughts

Is it necessary to have watched the 2025 animated film How to Train Your Dragon before enjoying it? Not at all. What makes this movie exceptional is its ability to captivate a fresh wave of viewers, filling their hearts with joy, yet also stirring deep emotions.

These films often convey themes of friendship, family, love, tolerance, and human values. Occasionally, life can lead us into battles that may not be necessary. It’s possible that previous generations initiated these conflicts, and we might be unaware of the reasons for our ongoing involvement. It could be a repeating pattern, one that persists until someone takes a stand and tries to bring about change.

In 2025, the movie titled How To Train Your Dragon isn’t an exact carbon copy of its animated predecessor, but it comes quite close. Most scenes are similar, yet there are differences. For instance, the teenage characters are given more depth, and this aspect is expected to be expanded upon in the live-action sequel.

This production has been meticulously crafted by the team behind it, pouring in their effort, passion, and dedication – a fact that becomes apparent as soon as you start watching. It’s enchanting, unique, breathtaking, and flawless, making it an absolute must-see on the largest screen available to truly appreciate its beauty.

How To Train Your Dragon (2025) soars into theaters on June 13. 

Rating: 10 out of 10

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2025-06-09 09:04