The live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon is almost here, with a global release date set for June 13, 2025. Fans of the original animated trilogy can look forward to a faithful retelling brought to life by the original director, Dean DeBlois, who is returning to helm the new adaptation.
Filming took place in Belfast, Northern Ireland, where full-size Viking village sets were built to create an immersive world. The film aims to keep the heart of the original story while adding a realistic touch through stunning visual effects and detailed set design.
Mason Thames plays Hiccup, a young Viking who chooses to befriend a dragon instead of fighting it. His performance has received early praise for being emotional and heartfelt.
Nico Parker plays Astrid, a strong and loyal friend of Hiccup. While some people online had mixed reactions to her casting, many appreciated the film’s effort to include more diversity and fresh faces.
The new trailer for the live-action ‘HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON’ remake has been released.
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) February 12, 2025
In theaters on June 13. pic.twitter.com/p9mom6wWBg
Gerard Butler is back as Stoick, Hiccup’s father, just like in the original animated films. The movie also features Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, and Gabriel Howell in important roles within the Viking village of Berk.
The first teaser trailer, released in late 2024, gave fans a glimpse of the emotional bond between Hiccup and Toothless, the dragon. Early feedback praised the realistic animation of the dragons and the film's strong emotional tone.
At CinemaCon in April 2025, exclusive footage was shown to critics, who described the film as visually beautiful and emotionally engaging. Many highlighted how the story remains true to the original while benefiting from live-action scale and effects.
The film will be available in standard theaters as well as IMAX and 3D.
A sequel has already been confirmed, with a release planned for June 11, 2027. With its faithful adaptation and strong creative team, this new version of How to Train Your Dragon is expected to win over both longtime fans and a new generation of viewers.
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