‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Movie Review: A Newcomer’s Perspective on this Live-Action Adaptation

How to Train Your Dragon Movie Review

A solid live-action film requires creating something that works for both devoted fans and fresh audiences, a balance that How to Train Your Dragon manages with considerable skill. I didn’t intend on entering the HTTYD universe as a newb, but time got away from me – and that’s what ended up happening this week. I didn’t have any pre-established expectations for this one, but I assumed the core story had to be strong enough to support a franchise that Universal Studios has built a large part of a theme park around. 

So, how does this live-action take work compared to some of the other less-than-great ones we’ve seen? Thankfully, it works much, much better. How to Train Your Dragon creates a world that feels lived-in and authentic, drawing audiences into the rugged Viking society of Berk with remarkable ease. I didn’t feel like I was missing out, though I absolutely have the animated film on my list to watch this weekend.

What’s How to Train Your Dragon About?

For those not familiar with the animated version, here’s what you need to know. How to Train Your Dragon takes place on the isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations. The story follows Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III (Mason Thames), the inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler), who defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.

The film unfolds as Hiccup captures a Night Fury during a dragon raid but finds himself unable to kill the creature when he discovers it injured and helpless. Instead, he chooses to help the dragon, whom he names Toothless due to its retractable teeth, and gradually builds a relationship that will transform both their lives. As Hiccup learns to understand dragons while secretly training with Toothless, he must navigate the expectations of his warrior father and the traditional dragon-fighting training of his peers.

Check out the trailer below.

How to Train Your Dragon Movie Trailer

How to Train Your Dragon Movie Review: What I Liked and Didn’t Like

How to Train Your Dragon‘s greatest strength lies in its emotional authenticity. The relationship between Hiccup and Toothless develops with genuine tenderness, built through small moments of trust and understanding rather than forced dramatic beats. The scenes where they learn to fly together are absolutely magical, conveying pure joy and wonder that had me grinning throughout. 

I was particularly impressed by how the movie handles its themes of acceptance and challenging prejudice without being heavy-handed. The message about understanding rather than fearing what’s different feels natural within the story rather than preachy. The action sequences are thrilling and well-choreographed, with dragon battles that feel genuinely dangerous and exciting despite the PG rating.

However, the film occasionally suffers from pacing issues in its first act. Some sequences feel slightly drawn out, taking longer to establish certain plot points than necessary. While the world-building is generally excellent, there are moments where the film could have benefited from exploring more of Berk’s society and customs. Additionally, while the supporting characters are charming, some could have used more development to feel fully realized.

While sweet-ish, the romance subplot between Hiccup and Astrid feels forced and underdeveloped compared to the central human-dragon relationship. There are also a few moments where the film’s adherence to certain familiar story beats makes some plot developments feel predictable.

The Story

Director Dean DeBlois deserves significant credit for crafting a screenplay that works brilliantly as both an adventure story and an emotional journey. The dialogue feels natural and character-appropriate, with Hiccup’s lines capturing both his intelligence and his insecurity. The script successfully balances humor with genuine emotion, never letting the comedy undermine the story’s more serious moments.

What impressed me most about the writing is how it builds the relationship between Hiccup and Toothless, largely through action and behavior rather than exposition. Their growing bond is demonstrated through shared experiences and mutual respect, creating a believable friendship that serves as the story’s emotional core. The script also effectively uses Hiccup’s internal conflict between his father’s expectations and his own moral compass to drive character development.

The Performances

Mason Thames delivers a standout performance as Hiccup, effectively conveying every emotion with remarkable authenticity. He brings a youthful energy that makes Hiccup feel genuinely awkward yet endearing, like a teenager struggling with identity and belonging. And, the actor’s chemistry with the CGI Toothless is particularly impressive, making their friendship feel completely believable.

Gerard Butler brings gravitas and warmth to Stoick, reprising his voice role from the animated films in live-action form. Butler effectively conveys a father’s love complicated by expectations and tradition, creating an imposing and sympathetic character. His scenes with Thames crackle with authentic father-son tension and affection.

While I didn’t like her character for the first half of the film, Nico Parker shines as Astrid, bringing fierce determination and intelligence to the role. And, the supporting cast, including Nick Frost as Gobber and the younger actors playing Hiccup’s fellow trainees, all contribute to creating a believable community. Julian Dennison brings fresh energy to Fishlegs, while Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, and Harry Trevaldwyn provide excellent comic relief as the other dragon trainees. Each performer manages to create distinct, memorable characters despite limited screen time.

Overall Thoughts

Coming to this film without preconceptions from the animated version, I found myself completely invested in Hiccup’s journey and his relationship with Toothless. The movie manages to be epic in scope while maintaining intimate character moments that ground the larger adventure.

The technical achievements deserve special mention—the visual effects work is exceptional, particularly in bringing Toothless and the other dragons to life. The creatures feel tangible and real, with personalities that shine through the CGI. And, John Powell’s musical score enhances every scene. It’s such a fantastic score.

What makes this film particularly successful, in my opinion, is how it respects its audience’s intelligence while delivering spectacle. The story doesn’t talk down to viewers or rely solely on action to maintain interest. Instead, it builds a world worth caring about and populates it with characters whose growth feels earned.

The film’s message about friendship, understanding, and having the courage to challenge harmful traditions resonates strongly without feeling forced. As someone experiencing this story for the first time, I was struck by how universal its themes feel (and especially timely in the world right now) while being grounded in its specific Viking fantasy setting.

How to Train Your Dragon is a rare live-action adaptation that justifies its existence through craft, heart, and genuine entertainment value. It’s a film that works on multiple levels—as an adventure story, a coming-of-age tale, and a meditation on friendship and acceptance. For audiences seeking both spectacle and substance, this fun adventure delivers on both counts, creating an experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

How to Train Your Dragon Movie Review:

Grade: A-