The excitement is building for fans of the beloved franchise as Universal Pictures unveils the teaser trailer for their live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon.” Directed by Dean DeBlois, who has been with the franchise since its inception, the film is set to hit theaters on June 13, 2025, and promises a faithful shot-for-shot reimagining of the hit 2010 animated film from DreamWorks Animation.
The film’s storyline revolves around young Viking Hiccup, portrayed by Mason Thames, and his journey of self-discovery as he befriends a dragon named Toothless instead of hunting him. The cast also includes Nico Parker in the role of Astrid, and features prominent actors like Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s father.
In the trailer, we see Hiccup grappling with his father’s expectations. He confesses, “Dad, I can’t kill dragons,” to which Stoick responds, “But you will.” This moment encapsulates the themes of bravery, understanding, and friendship that have made the franchise resonate with audiences.
DeBlois, who co-directed the original animated feature with Chris Sanders, continues the legacy of “How to Train Your Dragon,” a series that has garnered four Oscar nominations and generated over $1.6 billion worldwide. The original film’s success led to the creation of two sequels and a rich tapestry of additional content, including short films and television series.
Mason Thames, known for his role in the horror film “The Black Phone” and the teen comedy “Incoming,” is stepping into the iconic role originally voiced by Jay Baruchel, furthering the continuity and nostalgia of the franchise.
The anticipation for the live-action adaptation not only highlights the enduring popularity of the story but also showcases the filmmakers’ commitment to bringing Hiccup and Toothless to new audiences. This adaptation offers a chance to reignite the love of the original tale while possibly introducing it to an entirely new generation of fans.
With its focus on themes of friendship and understanding, there is a hopeful outlook for the new film’s ability to inspire viewers, just as its animated predecessor did a decade ago.