The world of live-action remakes is no longer the exclusive domain of Disney. Universal Studios has officially thrown its hat into the ring with a highly anticipated reimagining of DreamWorks Animation’s beloved How to Train Your Dragon. During the Super Bowl, the studio unveiled a gripping trailer for the film, giving fans their first full look at the cinematic revival of this modern animated classic. The trailer has sparked immense excitement, not only for its breathtaking visuals but also for its promise to breathe new life into a story that has captured the hearts of millions.
At the core of How to Train Your Dragon is the timeless tale of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a young Viking who challenges centuries of tradition when he befriends a dragon named Toothless. Set on the mythical isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been sworn enemies for generations, the story follows Hiccup’s journey as he defies expectations and forges an unlikely bond with the mysterious Night Fury dragon. The trailer captures the poignant moment of their first encounter, showcasing Hiccup’s courage and Toothless’s hesitate trust. “I’m the first Viking who wouldn’t kill a dragon,” Hiccup declares, a line that encapsulates the film’s central theme of understanding and acceptance.
The trailer also highlights the soaring adventures that Hiccup and Toothless embark on together, with heart-stopping aerial sequences that showcase the beauty of their connection. The music swells as they glide past rocky cliffs, over roaring oceans, and above chaotic battles, reminding audiences of the magic that made the original animated films so memorable. Director Dean DeBlois, who helmed the first three animated How to Train Your Dragon films and co-wrote them, returns to the franchise to bring this story to life in a new and exciting way. His involvement has been met with enthusiasm, as he is credited with elevating the animated series into a global phenomenon that grossed over $1.6 billion worldwide and earned four Oscar nominations.
The live-action remake boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Mason Thames as Hiccup, a young actor who has already made waves in the horror genre with his role in The Black Phone. Astrid, Hiccup’s fierce and loyal friend, is portrayed by Nico Parker, known for her role in The Last of Us. The cast also features a mix of established stars and rising talents, such as Nick Frost as Gobber, the blacksmith, and Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick, Hiccup’s father and the leader of Berk. Other notable names include Julian Dennison (Deadpool 2), Bronwyn James (Wicked), and Peter Serafinowicz (Guardians of the Galaxy), ensuring a dynamic and diverse range of performances.
Behind the scenes, the film is backed by some of the industry’s most acclaimed creators. Dean DeBlois is joined by producer Marc Platt, a three-time Academy Award nominee known for his work on La La Land and Wicked. Platt’s involvement adds a level of prestige to the project, hinting at a production that is both grand in scale and heartfelt in storytelling. The film was also shot using IMAX cameras, a detail that promises to enhance the visual experience and immerse audiences in the world of Berk and its dragons.
Fans of the original animated series will be thrilled to know that the live-action How to Train Your Dragon is set to hit theaters on June 13, with the trailer offering a tantalizing glimpse of what’s to come. The film’s release marks a new chapter in the franchise’s legacy, blending nostalgia with fresh perspectives to create a story that feels both familiar and excitingly new. As Hiccup and Toothless prepare to take to the skies once more, audiences around the world are eagerly awaiting the chance to experience their epic journey on the big screen.
