How to Train Your Dragon (2025)

REVIEW:

Having watched the How to Train Your Dragon animated trilogy more times than I can reasonably count—honestly, well over 30 times in the past month alone thanks to my kids’ obsession—you could say our household has a deep affection for Hiccup, Toothless, and the world of Berk. So when the live-action remake was announced, written and directed by Dean DeBlois himself, the man behind the original trilogy, I knew we’d be front and centre at the cinema. And while it may not quite soar to the same emotional heights as the animated classic, I’m pleased to say it’s still very much worth experiencing on the big screen.

First and foremost, this adaptation stays incredibly faithful to the original, and that’s where it finds its strength. Aside from a few minor additions to pad the runtime and deepen some side character moments, this is largely a shot-for-shot remake. In an era where remakes often aim to reinvent, it’s refreshing to see a filmmaker stick to the mantra: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That decision allows the remake to tap into much of the same magic that made the original beloved—particularly the heartwarming bond between Hiccup and Toothless.

That central relationship still absolutely works here, albeit not quite with the same power. There’s something about the way animation allows for hyper-expressive movements and wordless communication that live-action CGI still struggles to match. But the bond is still beautifully depicted—it’s loyal, protective, playful, and quietly profound. I admit, it hit me right in the heart because it mirrors the relationship I have with my dog: one of unspoken understanding and unconditional loyalty.

The visual effects team deserves serious credit for the dragons. Toothless, especially, is a marvel of CGI craftsmanship. The way the light dances across his scales, the texture of his wings, the way his eyes reflect emotion—all of it blends seamlessly into the real-world locations of Berk. Whether he’s soaring through the skies or curled up inside a Viking hut, Toothless never feels like a digital creation. Instead, he feels real, tangible, and full of personality.

Casting-wise, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. Mason Thames and Nico Parker shine as Hiccup and Astrid, fully inhabiting their roles with just the right balance of teenage awkwardness and growing confidence. They bring enough sincerity to carry the emotional weight of the story. Nick Frost’s turn as Gobber is enjoyably eccentric and provides a good chunk of the comic relief. And bringing back Gerard Butler as Stoick was a stroke of genius—his booming presence, gruff wisdom, and conflicted tenderness anchor the film with gravitas.

Unfortunately, not all casting choices hit the mark. Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, and Julian Dennison as Snotlout, Ruffnut, Tuffnut, and Fishlegs were—put bluntly—a misfire. Whether it was miscasting, poor direction, or a lack of chemistry, their performances felt painfully stiff and out of place. I’m sure the actors gave it their best shot, but their scenes often broke the immersion, lacking the vibrant energy or comedic charm their animated counterparts had in spades.

That said, I don’t envy the task of translating such stylised characters into live-action. It’s a tricky needle to thread, and I can understand why some elements wouldn’t translate perfectly. Thankfully, the film keeps its heart where it matters, and the core themes of identity, friendship, and acceptance still shine through clearly—especially for younger audiences experiencing this world for the first time.

In the end, this live-action How to Train Your Dragon may not replace the animated version in our hearts, but it doesn’t have to. It stands as a solid, enjoyable family film that offers enough spectacle and heart to justify a trip to the cinema. My kids were utterly transfixed throughout, and watching their eyes light up as Hiccup and Toothless took flight reminded me why stories like this endure. For that alone, it’s worth the ticket.