My theory on why a live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon exists is that DreamWorks Animation/Universal doesn’t want to lose their license to this profitable franchise. Rebooting the series with a live-action adaptation, rather than letting it go, makes business sense.
As a fan of the original series—and having covered it extensively—I still find it hard to accept a new actor playing Hiccup. Mason Thames does a decent job in the role, and Gerard Butler is excellent as Stoick, a role he seems born to play. However, the supporting cast doesn’t capture the humor and charm I loved in the animated versions.
For instance, Fishlegs’ (Julian Dennison) relationship with Hiccup feels less defined. Snotlout (Gabriel Howell) doesn’t provoke Hiccup as much, and The Twins (Bronwyn James as Ruffnut and Harry Trevaldwyn as Tuffnut Thorston) come across differently. While the performers are competent, their roles lack the comedic impact and screen time of their animated counterparts. As for Astrid, Nico Parker doesn’t quite match the fiery presence America Ferrera brought to the role.
Although this film closely mirrors the original story, there are notable differences. Snotlout’s “daddy issues” are explored more explicitly, and some minor characters take on more significant roles. Yet, the film often feels like a Scooby-Doo live-action adaptation, with the illusion never fully convincing—Stoick’s physique, for example, doesn’t quite match his animated counterpart!
I wouldn’t call this film a spectacular successor to the original, even though director Dean DeBlois is guiding the franchise’s evolution. Returning to helm the live-action adaptation rather than letting DreamWorks oversee it suggests he intends to reshape the sequels more significantly, rather than producing straight remakes. If the series continues, I hope it brings fresh elements to the story.
This latest installment is more politically conscious, featuring Asian and African faces among the clan. I looked into the reason for this diversity, and DeBlois explained that Vikings historically interacted and traded with various cultures. It’s plausible that some foreigners might have settled alongside Norse villagers, making the multicultural cast more historically accurate. The variety of accents supports this idea.
Additionally, DeBlois said this broadens the world of the film, portraying Berk not just as a Norwegian family’s home, but as a place where many can find peace. This updated perspective fits with the altered dialogue early in the story. However, without Jay Baruchel’s iconic voice, Hiccup feels less like the character fans know, and without America Ferrera’s spirited Astrid, this version feels different. Despite this, I’ll keep following the franchise because of my love for How to Train Your Dragon—I’ve even read all the books!
That said, the 2025 live-action film doesn’t surpass the original, given the heavy reuse of dialogue, camera angles in key scenes, and music.
3 Stars out of 5
How to Train Your Dragon Movie Trailer
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