How to Train your Dragon (2025), An Epic Adventure Adaptation | Film Review

On the rugged isle of Berk, a Viking boy named Hiccup defies centuries of tradition by befriending a dragon named Toothless.

How to Train your Dragon is a beloved animated franchise, full of colour, comedy and heart - these films have become some of my personal favourites. The live action retelling has every ounce of personality found in the original, this film was captivating, heart warming and most of all an absolute showstopper. How to Train your Dragon (2025) was an epic explosion of character, adventure and enthralling storytelling. From the moment it began I knew I was in for an unforgettable ride. 

Dean DeBlois has brought this story to life once again, although this time it’s a large scale, highly immersive adventure. Knowing this adaption was in the safe hands of the original films co-director was encouraging bringing the essence of the original film into this one. Now, that is how you make a live action adaptation. DeBlois was able to bring his passion into this feature and forge a new way to share these characters and their story with a new generation of fans.

I will say, naturally this adaptation doesn’t quite capture the bright colour palette of the animated version but that is to be expected. This version of Hiccup and Tootheless’ tale is gritty, dark and atmospheric at times and personally, I loved seeing these characters and their home brought to life in an enchanting way. An element of this live action I was nervous for was the dragons, in animation the dragons are adorable and distinctly unique - this film nailed it. Toothless was filled with charm and his fellow dragons were brought to life faultlessly. I was blown away by the special effects and found the flying scenes to be beautifully shot and executed. Alongside the special effects, the landscapes and practical sets were astonishing and further pulled you into the world of Berk. 

The animated films showcase a variety of voice actors who are charming to say the least, I was fearful I would miss the iconic band of voices but after watching the live action the casting choices were phenomenal. Jay Baruchel’s voice is pretty remarkable and quirky but Mason Thames didn’t imitate or try to replicate his voice, instead he brought a fresh new version of Hiccup to the screen. I was blown away by the casting choices, I had the most pathetic smile on my face the entire time thanks to Mason’s portrayal of Hiccup. 

Universal and Dreamworks took care of these characters, the team behind this feature should be truly proud of it. I was in awe of the sets, the costumes, the locations, the casting but most of all the execution of the dragons. The dragons are the heart and soul of this story and they truly brought Toothless to life.

Some may argue, did we need this film if the animated ones are so good? Not necessarily, we didn’t need this version of How to Train your Dragon (2025) but I can confidently say I have fallen in love with these characters all over again and this film is an example of injecting more love and more life into a beloved franchise. 

Probe Points 

★★★★★