Excitement is building as the live-action adaptation of the beloved 2010 animated film How to Train Your Dragon prepares to take flight in theaters this June. Directed by Dean DeBlois, who also helmed the original animated trilogy, the new film promises to bring the enchanting world of Berk and its dragons to life with unprecedented realism and heart.
Set to open on June 13, 2025, the live-action How to Train Your Dragon stars Mason Thames as Hiccup, the inventive son of Chief Stoick the Vast, voiced by returning actor Gerard Butler. Nico Parker takes on the role of Astrid, the fierce and ambitious Viking warrior, while Nick Frost portrays the village’s quirky blacksmith, Gobber. This fresh cast, alongside Butler’s reprisal, breathes new life into a story that has captivated audiences for over a decade.
The narrative follows Hiccup, who defies centuries of Viking tradition by befriending Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond challenges the Viking society’s deep-rooted fear and misunderstanding of dragons, setting the stage for a tale of friendship, courage, and change. With Astrid and Gobber by his side, Hiccup confronts an ancient threat that endangers both humans and dragons, forging a new path toward peace.
Dean DeBlois’s return as director was driven by a desire to avoid “yet another soulless remake.” In an interview with ScreenRant, DeBlois expressed relief that longtime fans have embraced the live-action film positively. He explained that his involvement was motivated by a commitment to safeguard the story’s spirit and ensure the remake honored the original’s heart and imagination.
Bringing the fantastical world of Berk into live-action was no small feat. Universal Pictures announced the project in February 2023, with DeBlois embarking on an intensive year-long pre-production journey that cost $50 million. The goal was to recreate Berk, Toothless, and the diverse dragon species with a grounded realism that would convince audiences these creatures could truly exist.
To achieve this, the production team employed a blend of cutting-edge CGI, practical effects, and innovative puppetry. DeBlois explained that while the animated films featured stylized, cartoonish dragons, the live-action version required a more naturalistic approach. Drawing inspiration from the animal kingdom — including crocodiles, tropical birds, walruses, and black panthers — the designers meticulously studied skeletal and muscle structures, scale iridescence, and subtle movements to craft dragons that felt alive and tangible.
Framestore, a renowned visual effects and computer animation studio known for its work on Paddington and the Harry Potter series, was entrusted with bringing Toothless and other dragons to life. Animation supervisor Glen McIntosh, with a background at Industrial Light and Magic and experience on the Jurassic Park films, played a crucial role in merging believable creature movement with vibrant personality. The result is a stunning balance of realism and whimsy that honors the franchise’s roots.
One of the most remarkable innovations was the use of “rideable” puppet dragons for scenes where human characters fly alongside their dragon companions. This approach allowed actors to interact with physical representations of the dragons, enhancing the authenticity of their performances. Multiple puppet heads were built for Toothless alone — including a “hero” head for close-up acting and a “wrestle” head for action-packed sequences — operated by a team of five puppeteers managing different parts such as the tail, head, and torso.
Actors embraced this tactile experience wholeheartedly. Gabriel Howell, who plays Snotlout, shared how the puppeteers adopted a “Method” style, embodying their dragons even between takes. This dedication helped the cast understand how to lean on and touch their dragon partners, creating a genuine sense of companionship that translates onscreen.
To build anticipation ahead of the film’s release, NBC aired a half-hour behind-the-scenes special titled Soaring to Life: The Making of How to Train Your Dragon on June 6, 2025. The special, available on NBC and streaming platforms like Peacock, offered viewers a glimpse into the elaborate hand-crafted sets, innovative filmmaking technology, and the creative process behind adapting the animated classic into a live-action spectacle. Mason Thames, Nico Parker, and Gerard Butler appeared in the special, sharing insights about their roles and the challenges of bringing dragons to life.
The special also highlighted Dean DeBlois’s journey, showcasing how he reimagined his original vision through a blend of artistry and technology. For those without cable, streaming options such as FuboTV, DirecTV Stream, and Sling provided free trials to watch the program, ensuring broad access to this captivating look behind the scenes.
Early reactions to the film have been positive. The movie was screened in its entirety at the annual CinemaCon conference in April 2025, where attendees praised its visual effects and faithful storytelling, according to Rotten Tomatoes. Fans of the original animated movie can also revisit it on streaming platforms Peacock and Max, fueling excitement for the live-action debut.
As the release date approaches, the combination of a dedicated director, talented cast, cutting-edge visual effects, and heartfelt storytelling sets How to Train Your Dragon apart as one of the summer’s most anticipated blockbusters. It’s a film that promises not only to dazzle with spectacular dragon flights and epic battles but also to remind audiences of the power of friendship and understanding across divides.
With its innovative production techniques and a story that resonates across generations, the live-action How to Train Your Dragon is poised to soar into the hearts of viewers worldwide this June.
