- HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DRAGON (2025)
- Starring: Mason Thames, Nico Parker and Gerard Butler
- Directed by: Dean DeBlois
- Rated: PG
- Running time: 2 hrs 5 mins
- Universal
Our score: 4 out of 5
In case you haven’t noticed, there has been, for the past few years, a trend in Hollywood. Take a beloved animated film and do a live action remake. It makes sense. The studios already own the property so need to pay the screenwriter any more money. And, if the animated film was a success, you already have a built-in audience. When they work, like Disney’s latest “Lion King” films, they work beautifully. When the don’t, well they don’t (and I’m looking at you “Snow White.” I hope you’ve blinked since I last saw you.) Another risk is that they spoil the affection fans of the original have. I’m happy to say that that affection still runs deep in me after seeing “How to Train Your Dragon.”
Like the 2010 animated feature, the film tells the story of young Hiccup (Thames), a well-meaning lad who tries his best to impress his father, the head of the Viking village he lives in. However, no matter what he tries, and how well intentioned his plans are, disaster usually follows. Then one day he meets a very special dragon. And his adventures begin.
Beautifully shot, with amazing visual effects, the film manages to capture the feel of its predecessor thanks to a strong cast. As Hiccup, Thames is just quiet enough to hide his new-found skills and Ms. Parker is a strong asset to the group of youngsters hoping to become first-rate dragonslayers. Butler, who also voiced tribe leader Stoick in the original animated film, is his usually blustery best. Whether he’s fighting dragons or haunting Paris opera houses, Butler has never met a role he couldn’t yell through!
The visual effects are top notch though I will warn that some of the more intense scenes scared several of the little ones that attending the screening I was in. However, children over the age of eight should enjoy the action.
On a scale of zero to five I give the live action version of ‘How to Train Your Dragon” ★★★★