In simpler terms, the recently released live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon by Universal Pictures is well done. It boasts impressive visuals, its positive aspects surpass its flaws, and it effectively tugs at the heartstrings. However, even with all these strengths, it still fails to serve a purpose or hold meaning. Indeed, it’s a good movie, but it lacks substance.
If you enjoyed director Dean DeBlois’ 2010 animated masterpiece “How to Train Your Dragon”, chances are you’ll enjoy his 2025 live-action remake of the same film as well. While the human element and minor adjustments distinguish it from its animated counterpart, this live-action version can be considered a faithful adaptation with only subtle changes. It essentially serves as a shot-for-shot remake that omits some minor scenes while adding a few new ones, with the most significant addition being extensive setup for the sequel. However, don’t expect any major or impactful alterations in this live-action version of “How to Train Your Dragon”. If you found the original appealing and relevant, there’s no reason why you wouldn’t enjoy this one as well.
Comparing the new live-action “How to Train Your Dragon” to its animated counterpart, which was released fifteen years ago, presents a challenge for viewers. Given that they’ve already seen the original, it becomes difficult not to compare the two. The original film is generally considered superior, and this can make it hard not to find flaws in the live-action version that wouldn’t be apparent if it were viewed independently.
The primary issue lies in the fact that Toothless, from the live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon”, appears exactly like his animated counterpart. Despite appearing more refined than suggested by the movie trailers, he still has a cartoonish appearance. Conversely, Berk’s other dragons receive a live-action overhaul, giving them a sense of authenticity for this particular world setting. By confining Toothless and his associated merchandise to their original design, he seems disconnected from the updated environment.
A significant issue arises because, despite Mason Thames delivering an excellent performance as Hiccup, his maturity and good looks seem incongruous with the character. In contrast, the original animated Hiccup appeared much younger, with a lean and lanky frame, making him appear awkward and unsure. Thames, who is 17, portrays a more mature image in the film. Furthermore, the animated Hiccup’s voice, provided by Jay Baruchel, distinctly set him apart in Berk. However, despite the live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon repeatedly emphasizing that Thames’ Hiccup shares the same issues, this claim does not feel convincing due to his leading man appearance and demeanor.
As a movie connoisseur, let me share my thoughts on the lead character’s appearance in this epic Viking saga. Despite sporting a rather unfortunate haircut, he exudes an undeniable air of authenticity that perfectly suits his role among the Vikings. This is in stark contrast to several of his fellow dragon trainees who, unfortunately, seem out of place within their warrior ranks.
The two-hour-long film experiences certain rhythm problems during its initial segment, moving sluggishly and becoming rather dull. Given that it’s an extended version of the original, this slow pace is understandable since it includes around 25 extra minutes. However, in the second half, the movie truly takes flight, offering both thrilling and emotional moments. Unfortunately, it never manages to be as amusing as the animated version, despite numerous attempts at humor. The laughter isn’t lacking, but many jokes fail to land, making the film less humorous overall. This isn’t due to a lack of effort; there are some genuinely funny moments in the movie, but they often miss their mark.
Despite these issues, the movie largely excels in other areas. The visuals are stunning, the action scenes are thrilling, and Hiccup’s key relationships remain compelling, well-crafted, and impactful.
The film has a couple of shortcomings, but overall it delivers. Its visuals are impressive, the action sequences keep you on the edge of your seat, and the development and significance of Hiccup’s crucial relationships remain strong points.
The primary reason for this film’s creation stems from the two key figures in Hiccup’s life – Gerard Butler’s live-action portrayal of Stoick and Nico Parker as Astrid. I found Butler’s interpretation of Stoick in “How to Train Your Dragon” to be my favorite role of his, perhaps even surpassing his previous works. The animated character seemed to leap off the screen and into reality with his performance. On top of that, Butler perfectly captured Stoick’s voice.
Simultaneously, Parker delivers an Astrid that fans have been eagerly anticipating. She embodies the qualities of strength, bravery, and fearlessness that define the character so well. What’s more, she serves as a significant emotional foundation for the story and plays a crucial role in making the second half particularly compelling.
You’ve got a solid grasp of why it holds true, given your familiarity with the tale itself. The resemblance is striking enough to create an uncanny, stage-like ambiance. Even though I was witnessing this adaptation for the first time, it felt like a repetition. Perhaps because it’s well-made, yet not quite reaching the brilliance of the animated movie, one might wonder why. The answer lies in “profit.” This is a significant franchise for a company that recently unveiled a new theme park featuring a How To Train Your Dragon section. There were clear financial motivations behind remaking this film.
The film’s artistic value may be debatable, but from a cinematic standpoint, the live-action remake of “How To Train Your Dragon” is well-made. It appeals to audiences of all ages, just like its successful animated counterpart did before. Whether or not it holds any deeper meaning is not a priority for viewers; their main concern is whether the movie is enjoyable, and in this case, it certainly is.
How To Train Your Dragon (2025) ⭐ (3.5 of 5)
This is known as a joke. If you’ve recently scolded me on social media unknowingly, thinking it was serious, I suggest you make amends by attending an open mic comedy night at your local venue. It’ll serve as a fun way to lighten the mood and maybe even learn a thing or two about humor!
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2025-06-11 19:03