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Excitement Grows for Live-Action Remake of How to Train Your Dragon

The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of the cherished animated film How to Train Your Dragon made its debut at CinemaCon, captivating attendees with its first screening. Crafted by Dean DeBlois, who was behind the original trilogy, this new iteration brings the dragon-loving Viking, Hiccup, to life through the performance of Mason Thames, known for his roles in The Black Phone and For All Mankind.

Initial reactions from viewers have poured in on social media, generating a mix of enthusiasm and caution. Most comments suggest that the remake stays true to its animated predecessor, earning praise for its faithfulness but also facing criticism for a perceived lack of innovation. Jeremy Kazieva expressed his excitement on X, stating that it was “THE BEST LIVE-ACTION FILM I’VE SEEN,” noting the seamless blend of music, acting, and CGI. Junior Felix echoed this sentiment, describing the film as “INCREDIBLE” with moments that left him in tears and highlighting Thames’ embodiment of Hiccup’s character.

Contrastingly, some viewers voiced their reservations. A user named Maggie noted that while the film isn’t necessarily bad, it’s essentially a “1:1 remake of the original,” expressing disappointment about the absence of creative risks. This sentiment suggests that while fans of the original may find comfort in this version, it may not offer a fresh perspective for those seeking something new.

The cast features a talented ensemble, including BAFTA nominee Nico Parker as Astrid Hofferson, along with Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, and even Gerard Butler returning as Stoick. The film is expected to reach theaters on June 13, 2025, and further details about its plot have been released, hinting at an exploration of friendship and understanding amid a backdrop of longstanding conflict between Vikings and dragons.

Plot Overview: Bridging Two Worlds

Set against the rugged landscape of Berk, where ancestral rivalries between Vikings and dragons exist, Hiccup represents a departure from tradition. He is the son of Chief Stoick the Vast and, against all odds, becomes friends with Toothless, a Night Fury dragon. This bond challenges the misperceptions held by his community and sets the stage for conflict resolution.

With new threats emerging that threaten both species, Hiccup’s relationship with Toothless will be crucial in their quest for peace. As they work together to overcome these challenges, Hiccup redefines what it means to lead and to be a hero.

Gerard Butler Promises the Same “Magic” in the Live-Action Remake

The successful How to Train Your Dragon franchise, inspired by Cressida Cowell’s bestselling book series, has garnered significant acclaim over the years, including multiple Academy Award nominations and impressive box office receipts exceeding $1.6 billion. Gerard Butler, returning to his role, has emphasized the “magic” this new adaptation aims to encapsulate. In an exclusive interaction, he expressed his joy in being part of this project, noting the impact these stories can have on audiences.

Butler shared, “Being involved has been a joy to bring these stories to life. I believe this film will resonate with the audience, not just as entertainment, but as an escape that brings a sense of wonder.” His words highlight the commitment of the filmmakers to deliver an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Release Date: June 13, 2025
Runtime: 116 Minutes

Main Cast:

• Mason Thames as Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III
• Nico Parker as Astrid Hofferson
• Nick Frost
• Julian Dennison
• Gerard Butler as Stoick
• And more!

Source
movieweb.com