Universal Pictures brings, DreamWorks Animation’s beloved tale, ‘How To Train Your Dragon,’ into live-action. Based on the 2010 animated films, which were inspired by Cressida Cowell’s 2003 novel, the remake once again follows Hiccup, the underestimated son of Chief Stoick the Vast, defying the Viking tradition of hunting dragons by bonding with Toothless the Night Fury, according to the official premise.
But, of course, while remaining faithful to the main story, the film changes a few things here and there. Here is everything we know about its cast, production, and release.
The Much-Talked ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ Live-Action Cast
Photo Credit: Screen Rant
The cast, as listed on IMDb, includes Mason Thames as Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III and Gerard Butler, reprising his role as Stoick the Vast. Nico Parker plays Astrid Hofferson, and Nick Frost takes on the role of Gobber the Belch. Other cast members include Julian Dennison as Fishlegs Ingerman, Gabriel Howell as Snotlout Jorgenson, and Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn as the twins Ruffnut and Tuffnut Thorston. Ruth Codd plays Phlegma while Peter Serafinowicz and Murray McArthur take on undisclosed roles, The Hollywood Reporter shares.
The team works hard to stay true to the original story with their performances and satisfy fans, according to Parker and Dennison’s previous explanations to Collider. In fact, the Astrid actress particularly feels “nervous about all of it because I care about it so much and everyone cares about it so much, and I just so would love to make everyone proud.”
Some Of The Original Production Team Are Back
Photo Credit: Merca 2.0
Dean DeBlois, who directed and co-wrote the animated trilogy, is directing, writing, and producing the live-action film. John Powell, the composer for the animated trilogy, returns to score this adaptation, as well. The film’s producers include David Cain, Michael A. Connolly, Dean DeBlois, Marc Platt, and Adam Siegel while Bill Pope serves as the cinematographer (per IMDb).
Actor Nick Frost trusts DeBlois’ work in the live-action, telling Collider, “He’s just got it. Relax, don’t worry about it. Just learn your lines and have fun.” The director himself admits the heightened stakes in the remake but shares confidence in the story that now features realistic dragons and a relatable Hiccup, according to Empire (via The Red Carpet).
The Eventful Development Process For The Live-Action
Photo Credit: Universal Studios
Universal announced plans for a live-action in February 2023, The Hollywood Reporter reported. Thames and Parker joined the project in May that year with the rest of the cast fully shaping up early 2024.
Filming began in January with practical sets and IMAX technology, after delays caused by the 2023 SAG-AFTRA strike and wrapped on May 16, 2024, Collider later wrote. Live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ movie is now waiting for release on June 13, 2025.
Expectations And Controversies Surrounding The Cast
Photo Credit: Collider
Nico Parker’s casting as Astrid drew criticism due to differences in appearance from the animated version since day one. Dean DeBlois defended the choice, explaining that the casting focused on finding actors who embodied the ‘spirit and personality’ of the characters. He also highlighted the expanded world-building on Instagram, stating that the Viking tribe in this version includes descendants from many cultures.
The backlash continued, though. Bronwyn James’ casting as Ruffnut also faced criticism, with some objecting to a plus-size actress in the role.
Meanwhile, the teaser for the project, which featured scenes that closely followed the animated original, received praise from the general public. DeBlois clarified on social media that the remake isn’t a shot-for-shot recreation but aims to deepen the story while honoring key moments from the original.
