How to Train Your Dragon (2025)

The current cinematic landscape is awash with the trend of beloved animated features making the leap to live-action, from "Lilo & Stitch" to countless others. Yet, few transitions carry the weight of anticipation and potential as "How to Train Your Dragon" (2025). What sets this particular adaptation apart, and indeed, makes it a groundbreaking event, is the return of the original visionary.

Dean DeBlois, the masterful storyteller who previously helmed all three animated "How to Train Your Dragon" films, is back in the director's chair for the live-action iteration. This decision by the studio is nothing short of brilliant, a testament to understanding the heart and soul of this cherished franchise. DeBlois' return isn't merely a nod to continuity; it’s a strategic choice that ensures the core vision and mission he so beautifully conveyed in the animated trilogy are seamlessly translated and amplified in live action. He possesses an intimate understanding of this world and its characters that no other director could replicate.

What's truly remarkable is that this film doesn't simply replicate its animated predecessor. Instead, it expands upon it, adding layers of depth and nuance, particularly in how it brings to life the magical expressions of the characters. This is nowhere more evident than in Mason Thames' portrayal of Hiccup. Thames' performance is uncannily accurate, capturing the animated Hiccup's spirit, his awkward charm, and his profound empathy with breathtaking precision. He is Hiccup, in every expressive glance and hesitant gesture. While Thames shines, the entire ensemble cast delivers compelling performances, each actor demonstrating a remarkable ability to embody their roles and contribute to the rich tapestry of the film.

And then, there's the truly epic, goosebump-inducing moment: Gerard Butler, who voiced Stoick the Vast in the animated films, returns to play the character in live-action. This is more than just clever casting; it's a genuine "this is cinema" moment. Butler's inherent gravitas, his commanding presence, and his deep familiarity with Stoick's character make his reprisal absolutely perfect. There are simply no other words to describe how fitting and powerful his return is. He embodies the chieftain with a majesty and tenderness that is utterly captivating.

"How to Train Your Dragon" (2025) is shaping up to be far more than just another live-action remake. Under Dean DeBlois' steadfast guidance, with a pitch-perfect cast and a commitment to enriching rather than merely repeating, it promises to be a spectacular, emotionally resonant journey that will thrill both new audiences and devoted fans alike.

Credits:

Directed by: Dean DeBlois

Screenplay by: Dean DeBlois

Based on: How to Train Your Dragon by Cressida Cowell

Produced by: Marc Platt and Adam Siegel

Starring: Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gabriel Howell, Julian Dennison, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Peter Serafinowicz, with Nick Frost, and Gerard Butler.

Cinematography: Bill Pope

Edited by: Wyatt Smith

Music by: John Powell

Production companies: DreamWorks Animation ^a and Marc Platt Productions

Distributed by: Universal Pictures

Release date: June 13, 2025

Running time: 125 minutes

note:

^a : Published under DreamWorks Animation's label, but not created by the studio.