Updated June 18, 2026
The success of the first live-action How to Train Your Dragon film has already led to the announcement of a sequel. Scheduled for June 11, 2027, How to Train Your Dragon 2 will adapt the second installment of DreamWorks' famous trilogy. Audiences will reunite with Hiccup, Toothless, and the dragons of Berk in a more ambitious adventure, marked by the appearance of new dragons, the mysterious Valka, and the formidable Bewilderbeast. While the first film captivated fans with its faithfulness to the original work, this sequel could offer spectacular scenes featuring some of the franchise's most impressive creatures.
How HTTYD 2025 Takes Flight
Dean DeBlois returns to direct the very first live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, scheduled for release on June 13, 2025. This adaptation of the much-loved 2010 animated film brings viewers back to the wild island of Berk, where a Viking community hardened by centuries of conflict with dragons faces a new era. At the heart of the story is Hiccup, the inventive and misunderstood son of the chief, who encounters a rare Night Fury dragon he names Toothless.
A New Lease on Life for a Classic
This remake is far from a simple copy-paste of the original. Critics praise the film's visual splendor and emotional maturity:
- The realism of the dragons is breathtaking, immersing viewers in a mythical world populated by winged beasts.
- The aerial sequences are even more impressive and majestic than in the animated version.
- Improved cinematography and realistic effects bring Berk to life like never before.
The flying scenes between Hiccup and Toothless inspire wonder while retaining the tenderness and silent trust that made the original a success.
The Dynamics of Flight: The Strengths of Taking Off
The Emotional Bond Between Rider and Creature
At the heart of the story is the unique bond between Hiccup and Toothless. This bond is not about domination, but about empathy, curiosity, and overcoming generational fear. Their trust shows that taming dragons begins with understanding and respect.
Visual Spectacle of Dragons in the Sky
Shot in IMAX with breathtaking natural landscapes, the film depicts a world where dragons soar through fog, lightning, and the golden light of the sun. From shimmering scales to the beating of their immense wings, the visual experience is simply majestic.
Faithfulness or Reinvention of the Narrative
The plot closely follows the 2010 version: from the dragons' hidden lair to the training grounds, and the decisive confrontation with the Red Death. However, the characters are more nuanced and the dialogues more grounded in reality. Some viewers might wish for more originality, but the faithfulness to the original work appears as a sincere tribute.
Forging New Mythical Wings
Performances That Touch the Heart
- Mason Thames delivers a touching performance as Hiccup, capturing the character's inner conflict and evolution.
- Nico Parker shines as Astrid, giving the character more presence, independence, and strength.
- Gerard Butler, who voiced Stoick in the animated films, now appears in live-action, embodying the gruff but caring Viking chief with emotional depth.
Soundscape and Soundtrack
Composer John Powell returns with a magnificent score that elevates the film. His orchestral themes accompany the flights, battles, and quieter moments with striking emotion—a sonic tribute to the grandeur of dragons and the sky.
Critiques: When Dragons Don't Cast Enough Shadow
Despite a largely favorable reception, not all reactions have been glowing:
- The film remains very faithful to the original story, which may disappoint those hoping for a daring reinterpretation.
- Some critics feel it plays it safe and follows the current Hollywood trend of remaking animated classics.
- Others argue that the unique charm and color of the original animation cannot be fully transposed into a live-action film.
Film to See or Not See?
For New Dragon Riders
If you're new to the world of Berk, this live-action narrative is an excellent entry point. The dragons are spectacular, the characters are endearing, and the story conveys timeless messages about peace, trust, and how to break the vicious cycle of fear.
For Nostalgic Dragon Tamers
Fans of the original will revel in iconic moments: the first flight, the controlled crash, the final battle. The magical creatures, powerful roars, and breathtaking skies are all back, reimagined for the big screen.
For Detractors of Live-Action Remakes
Those hoping for a completely new approach might be disappointed. But if you view this film as an affectionate tribute rather than a reinvention, this journey will still enchant you.
The Legacy: Shaping Future Dragon Realms
Thanks to its critical and commercial success, a sequel is already planned for 2027. Beyond cinema, the world of dragons continues to expand, with immersive experiences such as theme parks and exhibitions dedicated to the island of Berk. A new generation of dragon riders is emerging—and the skies are wide open for them.
The 2025 version of How to Train Your Dragon proves that dragons still have the power to amaze. With stunning realism, emotional storytelling, and a stirring soundtrack, the film offers a new way to experience an already mythical tale. Whether you're meeting Toothless for the first time or taking flight again, it's a journey worth taking.
My personal opinion:
I recently went to see the film in theaters (and regret not having seen it in its original version).
I was not disappointed. I expected nothing, and that's exactly what I got. Nothing ^^. The live-action film is a scene-by-scene copy of the animated film. Creating a live-action version of a 2D cartoon from the 80s has its merits. Beyond rekindling nostalgia, the technical prowess of transforming a 2D animal into an ultra-realistic animal is extraordinary! But HTTYD is only 15 years old... The nostalgia doesn't work as well, and as for technical prowess... Going from realistic 3D to ultra-realistic 3D is, in my opinion, unnecessary. The magic wasn't there. Even the brilliant soundtrack couldn't reignite the flame. The emotions a character like Toothless can convey in 3D no longer work when too many realistic traits are attributed to him (the same problem as in the live-action version of The Lion King).