The live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon, directed by Dean DeBlois and co-produced with Chris Sanders, hits theaters on June 13. The new film takes a remarkably faithful approach to the original tale of young Viking Hiccup and his unlikely friendship with Toothless, the gentle dragon. While it contains some expanded roles for side characters, the 2025 version feels like a shot-for-shot re-creation of the 2010 animated classic.
Thames’ portrayal of Hiccup serves as a grounding force, acting as a bridge between the cartoon’s goofiness and the live-action’s more grounded tone. Parker brings charm to Astrid, while Butler delivers a standout performance as Stoick, the stubborn yet loving father figure. The chemistry between Thames and Butler is palpable, bringing depth to Hiccup and Stoick’s complicated relationship.
The screenplay sticks closely to the original plot points, with some added touches that don’t stray far from the source material. However, this results in a less interesting film than expected. Despite its lack of innovation, DeBlois shows a knack for directing actors and handles action sequences well.
The remake’s success can be attributed to DeBlois’ love for the original characters and his investment in their story. The revamped score by John Powell adds an emotional layer to the film, capturing the heart and soul of How to Train Your Dragon Version 1.0. Overall, while the live-action remake may not break new ground, it remains a touching spin on a beloved classic.
Source: https://www.ign.com/articles/how-to-train-your-dragon-review-2025