Universal’s 2025 live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon takes flight as both a reverent homage to the beloved 2010 animated classic, and a bold cinematic achievement in its own right. Directed by Dean DeBlois, who returns from helming the original trilogy, the film recaptures the emotional depth and spirit of its predecessor, while delivering a stunning visual spectacle that’s tailored to a new generation of moviegoers.
Set in the Viking village of Berk, the story once again centres on Hiccup (played with impressive nuance by 17-year-old Mason Thames), a misfit inventor who challenges his tribe’s longstanding tradition of dragon slaying, when he secretly befriends a wounded Night Fury dragon named Toothless. Their bond becomes the heart of the film, sparking a journey that questions prejudice, redefines bravery, and explores the power of empathy.
Thames delivers a standout performance, infusing Hiccup with a blend of youthful awkwardness and quiet courage that feels both fresh and familiar. His portrayal is so emotionally grounded that at times it evokes the same warmth and sincerity that made the animated Hiccup so beloved. Some of his line deliveries mirror the original so closely, it’s almost as if the dialogue was lifted straight from the 2010 film, a testament to how well the remake preserves its core.
Adding emotional heft to the story is Gerard Butler, reprising his role as Stoick, Hiccup’s formidable, yet conflicted father. Butler’s presence bridges the past and present of the franchise, providing longtime fans with a sense of continuity and familiarity. He’s joined by a strong supporting cast including Nico Parker as the fierce and intelligent Astrid, and Nick Frost as the bumbling but lovable Gobber. Their performances help flesh out a world that is at once larger in scale, and more grounded.
From the opening frames, the film asserts itself as a visual triumph. Sweeping shots of the rugged Northern Ireland landscape; where much of the film was shot, double as Berk’s striking terrain, lending authenticity and grandeur to the setting. The integration of CGI dragons is particularly effective; each creature is rendered with incredible detail, from the texture of their scales to the most subtle of facial expressions. In particular, Toothless is brought to life with remarkable charm and personality, capturing the same endearing presence that made audiences fall in love with him over a decade ago.
The action sequences are another highlight; fluid, intense, and emotionally driven. Rather than relying solely on spectacle, the choreography emphasizes character stakes, allowing the viewer to stay immersed in the story without being overwhelmed by the visual effects. The dragon flight scenes remain a cornerstone of the franchise’s magic, and this live-action version delivers them with exhilarating realism.
I had the privilege of attending an early screening at the Sydney Film Festival, held in the historic State Theatre, and it was impossible to ignore the buzz surrounding the film. Fans of all ages, many wearing dragon-themed merchandise or dressed as their favourite characters, created an atmosphere of palpable excitement. It’s clear that How to Train Your Dragon holds a special place in many hearts (including mine) and this remake does justice to that legacy.
As someone who grew up watching the original film series thanks to my brothers, I admittedly approached this remake with cautious optimism. Thankfully, my expectations were not only met but exceeded. What struck me most was the film’s ability to maintain the emotional tone of the original, all while adapting it to a more mature, live-action medium. The nostalgic touches are there, the music, the character beats, the flying sequences, but they’re all expertly woven into a reimagined narrative that lovingly respects its audiences’ growth over the past 15 years, masterfully creating a film experience that’s enjoyable for all ages.
In its finest moments, How to Train Your Dragon (2025) doesn’t just revisit a familiar story, it deepens it. It reminds us of why we love these characters in the first place while proving that live-action fantasy can be equally visually stunning, emotionally resonant and immersive. This is what a live-action adaptation should strive to be.
Whether you’re experiencing the story for the first time or are returning to the How to Train Your Dragon world as a longtime fan, the new live-action film offers more than just a simple retelling. Instead, it’s a thoughtful and well-crafted journey that evenly balances spectacle with soul. Universal’s remake doesn’t just revisit a classic; it elevates it, delivering a heartfelt, visually rich experience that stands tall on its own.
How To Train Your Dragon (2025) is in cinemas now.