Hello Readers,
I saw the live-action How to Train Your Dragon last week,
and I was completely captivated. For fans of the original animated film, this
new adaptation delivers on every level. I don’t own the rights to the poster
images (used here under Fair Use for review purposes, as per sections 29 and 30
of the Copyright Act).
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Dean DeBlois, who co-directed the original animated
trilogy, returns to helm this live-action reimagining and his rare role as both
the original writer and director brings a strong sense of continuity and
creative authenticity. That deep connection to the source material is evident
in every frame. The film elevates the beloved story with striking realism,
emotional depth, and breath taking cinematography. From the sweeping vistas of
Berk to the beautifully rendered dragons especially Toothless it evokes a
powerful emotional response that few live-action fantasies manage to achieve.
Amid the flood of recent remakes, this one truly stands out, showing exactly
what live-action adaptations can accomplish when guided by vision and care.
Mason Thames takes on the role of Hiccup with surprising
poise. While his version of the character isn’t quite as scrawny as his
animated counterpart, Mason captures Hiccup’s awkwardness and quiet resolve. He
brings a vulnerability that makes him feel like a true outsider a reluctant
hero rather than a born warrior. It’ll be interesting to watch how he grows in
the role, especially if the series continues along the same emotional arc as
the original trilogy.
One of the film’s most rewarding choices is the return of
Gerard Butler as Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s formidable father and chief of Berk.
Gerard, who voiced Stoick in the original films, fully embodies the role in
live action complete with horned helmet, flowing beard, and all. His commanding
presence adds weight and familiarity, and long time fans will find his return
especially meaningful.
The dragons are seamlessly integrated into the film’s
more grounded aesthetic. While their designs are a bit less colourful and
fantastical than in the animated version, they still maintain a sense of
wonder. Toothless, in particular, remains deeply expressive, conveying emotion
in ways that feel remarkably real.
A notable change in this adaptation is the deeper focus
on Hiccup’s isolation. While the animated film made it clear he was different,
the live-action version leans further into his status as an outcast. It’s not
just his father or a few peers who misunderstand him he’s alienated by nearly
the entire village. The first half of the film captures this loneliness with
real emotional weight, grounding Hiccup’s journey in a more human and raw way.
Composer John Powell returns to expand his already-iconic
score, and the result is a musical experience that beautifully complements the
film’s tone. Familiar themes reemerge with new depth and orchestral power,
amplifying both the action and the heart of the story.
How to Train Your Dragon isn’t just a retelling it’s a
respectful and emotionally rich reimagining. It honours the original while
carving out its own space, offering something rewarding for long time fans and
newcomers alike.
L x
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