Dean DeBlois, a three-time Oscar nominee and Golden Globe recipient, brings his directorial expertise to the live-action adaptation of DreamWorks’ animated film How to Train Your Dragon. In addition to directing, DeBlois also serves as the film’s screenwriter. The film is based on the 2003 novel by Cressida Cowell of the same name.
Set on the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, the story follows Hiccup (Mason Thames), the inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler). Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the foundations of Viking society.
Alongside the fierce and ambitious Astrid (Nico Parker) and the village’s quirky blacksmith Gobber (Nick Frost), Hiccup confronts a world torn by fear and misunderstanding. Hiccup and Astrid have just begun dragon training with fellow village teens: Fishlegs (Julian Dennison), his rival Snotlout (Gabriel Howell), and the twins Ruffnut (Bronwyn James) and Tuffnut (Harry Trevaldwyn).
As an ancient threat emerges, endangering both Vikings and dragons, Hiccup’s friendship with Toothless becomes crucial for forging a new future. Together, they must navigate the delicate path toward peace, soaring beyond the boundaries of their worlds and redefining what it means to be a hero and a leader.
The live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon” essentially captures the essence of the original animated film while establishing its unique trajectory. Mason Thames presents a commendable portrayal of Hiccup, skillfully merging subtle intensity with vulnerability. Thus, Thames embodies the hesitant protagonist as he embarks on a journey of awe and resistance.
Gerard Butler reprises his role as Stoick, contributing a significant sense of grounding to the film. Nico Parker’s interpretation of Astrid combines fierceness with understanding, establishing a profound connection with Thames. Nick Frost adds organic humor to Gobber’s character while preserving the film’s emotional depth.
Seeing the film in IMAX was a joy, as it showcases breathtaking dragon flight sequences in which Toothless displays his mysterious majesty and elegance with heart-stopping precision. In addition, it establishes a lived-in mythic reality through its expansive landscapes and intricate production design, which expand the saga’s dimensions while the emotional core ultimately elevates the film.
The relationship between Hiccup and Toothless displays genuine emotions, while their transformation from terror to trust illustrates the film’s central theme about the power of understanding and adapting. Director Dean DeBlois carefully guides the narrative to preserve its fundamental essence.
Unlike some Disney adaptations, this remake pays tribute to its origins yet achieves acclaim through its distinctive strengths, and I look forward to the sequel.
Final Grade: A
“How to Train Your Dragon” opens in theaters tomorrow.
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