Gerard Butler leads How to Train Your Dragon remake, which has become a standout among live-action adaptations, despite closely following its animated predecessor. Critics are praising the film’s faithful recreation of Toothless and the touching story on the big screen, drawing renewed attention to the beloved DreamWorks franchise.
Surprising Success in the Live-Action Remake Era
In recent years, live-action remakes of cherished animated classics often struggle to win over audiences, particularly when they adhere rigidly to the original stories. Many adaptations have faced criticism for lacking innovation and emotional depth. However, projects that deviate creatively, as seen with titles like “Maleficent” and “Cruella,” have shown that new interpretations can offer genuine appeal beyond studio profits.
It comes as a surprise, then, that the new How to Train Your Dragon remake—directed by Dean DeBlois, who also co-directed the acclaimed 2010 animation with Chris Sanders—has resonated so strongly. Despite its near replica of the original’s narrative and emotional beats, this new version manages to leave a notable impact. DeBlois took on sole screenwriting duties this time, adapting Cressida Cowell’s 2003 novel once again, and the script closely mirrors the earlier film’s pacing and iconic scenes.
Revisiting the Isle of Berk
The film opens at night on the fantastical Isle of Berk, centuries in the past, where Vikings, led by Stoick the Vast—portrayed by Gerard Butler—fend off a dragon raid. These dragons are not attacking humans but targeting their livestock, a mystery that unfolds later. The protagonist, Hiccup (played by Mason Thames), strives to prove himself valuable to his father and community. However, Stoick doubts his son’s abilities, worried less about dragon dangers and more about Hiccup’s inexperience causing unintended harm to the village.
During the conflict, Hiccup is kept away from the action, working as an apprentice to Gobber the Belch (Nick Frost), Stoick’s trusted friend. Stoick, known for his strength and leadership, accepts that Hiccup may never fit the mold of a traditional Viking warrior, and Hiccup himself seems resigned to this reality, at least at the story’s outset.
The Film’s Visual Approach and Atmosphere
The initial action sequence at night is intricate but introduces a heavy reliance on visual effects, with dragons causing chaos amid booming explosions and collapsing practical sets. This makes the opening feel somewhat artificial. Nonetheless, the film gains vibrancy as daylight reveals the landscapes of Berk, taking advantage of real-world locations shot in Ireland, the Faroe Islands, Iceland, and Scotland.
Director Dean DeBlois and cinematographer Bill Pope skillfully use these natural environments to bring new life to the well-known story. Once the narrative shifts from frenetic nighttime battles to Hiccup’s solitary wanderings through forests and cliffs, the remake starts to distinguish itself from previous adaptations. Familiar elements, such as John Powell’s celebrated score and key relationships between humans and dragons, evoke emotion even in repeated scenes, reminding viewers why the original became a modern classic.
What Sets This Remake Apart
Despite following the original film closely, the live-action How to Train Your Dragon makes deliberate choices to stand out amid similar projects. The selection of real European locations gives Berk a tangible authenticity, while performances from the cast, especially Gerard Butler’s return as Stoick, ground the story in emotional realism. The visual splendor and committed storytelling recapture the spirit of the source material for new and longtime fans alike.
Potential Impact and Expectations
The film’s strong reception could influence how studios approach future live-action adaptations, showing that careful recreation combined with cinematic flair can rejuvenate a familiar story. As the beloved characters Hiccup and Toothless soar onto the screen once more, audiences are reminded of the enduring appeal of stories rooted in connection and courage. With box office momentum building, the remake is set to become a benchmark for future adaptations hoping to strike the right balance between nostalgia and novelty.
