How to Train Your Dragon review: Live-action remake recaptures magic of the original

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The new live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon retains many of the charm and magic from the 2010 animated film, but somehow, watching it seems unnecessary or redundant.

According to the 2003 book titled ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ by Cressida Cowell, this movie was loved both by critics and viewers, leading to two more successful sequels, along with several short movies, video games, and various television adaptations.

Given the trend today, with many successful animated series getting live-action adaptations, it was only a matter of time before this one got a reboot too. However, this latest version shares a lot of similarities.

The movie undergoes some slight modifications, extending it by approximately 20 minutes, yet its core narrative remains consistent. This means that it hits familiar plot points at corresponding instances, creating an unsettling feeling of déjà vu as you watch it, since the overall experience seems repetitive.

What is How to Train Your Dragon about?

The narrative resumes with our hero Hiccup providing a backdrop through narration, introducing us to the world of Berk – a land inhabited by Vikings. However, unlike ordinary pests they’re dealing with, these are massive, aerial creatures that not only steal their livestock but also set their homes ablaze.

The main concern for most people is a particular problem, but Hiccup personally grapples with an issue: he hasn’t managed to conquer a dragon, a feat required for true Viking status. His father, who is also the local leader, shares this expectation, so Hiccup must demonstrate his dragon-slaying abilities to himself, his dad, and the village.

However, an unexpected turn of events occurs when he encounters a Night Fury, the dragon feared by all in the land. Instead of battling each other, they develop an unlikely friendship. Hiccup names him Toothless, mends the injured wings of the dragon, and even takes his newfound friend for a flight around the island.

The concealed fact about Hiccup could remain hidden for only a short while, but this creates a situation where he’s bound to clash with Stoick. Simultaneously, it might endanger the entire village as well.

What’s different in the live-action remake?

If you’re familiar with the original, you’ll notice that the game setup remains unchanged. However, the climax isn’t quite as surprising this time around, as it’s almost identical to the first version. There are just a handful of tweaks to the storyline here and there. From my gaming perspective.

Some subtle differences include the omission of dragon vision, the exclusion of any reference to trolls, and a slight change in how Hiccup’s mother is portrayed.

However, additional alterations serve to enhance the storyline. The mythos has been broadened and deepened, particularly regarding the background of the Viking tribe. This expansion includes a more comprehensive history, which explains Astrid’s past and provides insight into why her initial reactions towards Hiccup are so hostile.

In this updated variant, there’s an increase in the pace, enhanced by a thrilling sequence where Stoick and Toothless are prominently involved, contributing to a culmination that surpasses its predecessors in grandeur and quality.

Mason Thames is a worthy Hiccup

In the initial version of How to Train Your Dragon, a fantastic ensemble of voice actors was employed, including Jonah Hill, TJ Miller, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, and Kristen Wiig.

In this remake, several actors fail to bring much humor to their parts, resulting in fewer laugh-out-loud moments. However, the talented Peter Serafinowiscz seems underutilized as he’s given a serious role instead of his usual comedic one. Yet, there are some impressive casting choices made as well.

In this version, Jay Baruchel previously lent his voice to Hiccup, but here, Mason Thames steps into the role and delivers an impressive portrayal that encapsulates Hiccup’s honesty, vulnerability, and courage. Despite sharing most of his screen time with a computer-generated dragon, Thames manages to make you believe in the authenticity of their friendship, with some scenes between them evoking the heartfelt moments from E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial.

The original voice actor, Gerard Butler, playing the departed Stoick is an impressive decision, since it’s hard to envision anyone else embodying such a grand character. He delivers lines with force and intensity, which perfectly captures Stoick’s essence. However, Stoick isn’t just a loud and boisterous character; he also shares some heartwarmingly emotional scenes with Hiccup, as they strive to heal their fractured relationship. Through these interactions, it becomes clear that violence isn’t always the solution.

Is How to Train Your Dragon good?

It could be beneficial to create a film that closely resembles an earlier animated movie, given its ability to generate substantial profits, even as much as the treasure amassed by Smaug. However, at certain moments, it’s challenging to understand the purpose behind this decision.

Indeed, viewed independently, How to Train Your Dragon stands out as a stunning film, not only for its visual appeal but also for the messages it conveys.

The visuals are stunningly impressive, particularly during the aerial and combat scenes, where How to Train really takes flight. Toothless, in all his glory, is nothing short of amazing, and his bond with Hiccup remains just as captivating today as it did back then.

Additionally, the film carries numerous uplifting themes scattered across its plot. These include the value of camaraderie and collective effort, the risks associated with harmful forms of masculinity, and the significance of remaining authentic to oneself and one’s convictions.

How to Train Your Dragon score: 4/5

Training Your Dragon Again might seem unnecessary, yet similar to its predecessor, it’s an outstanding choice for family viewing, boasting captivating characters, thrilling action sequences, and a tale wrapped beautifully with warmth and emotion.

On June 9, 2025, How to Train Your Dragon will debut in UK cinemas, and it will be shown elsewhere starting June 13. To stay updated on the rest of this year’s big film releases, check out our 2025 movie calendar.

This version retains the original information but rephrases it to make it more conversational and easier for readers to understand.

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2025-06-09 11:19