Why the Live-Action “How to Train Your Dragon” Trailer Raises Questions

When I watched the first trailer for the live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon, I couldn’t help but ask myself why we keep doing this.

Yet again, we see another beloved animated classic being reimagined for the live-action screen, and honestly, it feels like it’s all about the money this time. How to Train Your Dragon, a fan-favorite animated film that was already quite successful, is the latest to get this treatment. The teaser dropped yesterday courtesy of Universal Pictures, and I have to say, it left me feeling a bit weary. But don’t just take my word for it—check it out below and see what you think.

One notable update is the return of Dean DeBlois, the original co-director, which is at least a nod to the source material. However, even though the animated movie wasn’t excessively colorful, the live-action version manages to drain away much of its vividness. It’s evident they’re aiming to closely mimic the original, but somehow that magic doesn’t survive the transition to live-action. And let’s be honest, Toothless looks pretty off when paired with the realism they’ve tried to inject into everything else. Even the logo seems to have shed its cartoon charm, probably due to some executive or marketing meeting decision.

On a brighter note, the casting seems promising. Mason Thames, from The Black Phone, steps into the shoes of Hiccup, while Gerard Butler reprises his role as Chief Stoick the Vast, having voiced him in the animated version. We’re also seeing Nico Parker, fresh off The Last of Us, as Astrid, alongside Nick Frost from Shaun of the Dead as Gobber, which sounds like a solid ensemble.

Whether I’m thrilled about it or not, this live-action remake is happening. We’ll all have the chance to see how it fares on June 13 next year.