Soaring Past Expectations
Sometimes a movie catches you off guard in the best possible way. I went into the new live-action How to Train Your Dragon with low expectations—not because I doubted the story, but because we've been burned before. Disney’s live-action track record hasn’t exactly inspired confidence, and I assumed this would be another soulless retread. But holy freakin’ airball—I was wrong. DreamWorks absolutely nailed it. This is how you do an adaptation right.
From the very beginning, this film sets itself apart by treating the original story not as a product to remake, but as a tale worth honoring. That difference in attitude is everything. Unlike Disney’s habit of shot-for-shot recreations or unnecessary "reimaginings," this live-action version feels heartfelt, sincere, and confident. A big part of that is because the director, Dean DeBlois, returned to helm this new version. He co-directed the original trilogy—and it shows. His love for Hiccup and Toothless runs deep, and that emotional core is present in every frame.
It’s not just the direction that makes this film sing. DreamWorks brought back composer John Powell, whose original score helped define the animated trilogy. His music once again lifts the film to incredible emotional heights. Gerard Butler reprises his role as Stoick, adding a strong throughline to the original cast. And instead of casting actors to mimic the animated characters, the new Hiccup, Astrid, and Viking teens are fresh interpretations that stay true to the essence of who they are.
The cinematography is stunning—genuinely awe-inspiring shots of Berk’s coastline, majestic aerial scenes, and vivid dragon flights that somehow feel even more immersive in live action. And speaking of dragons: Toothless looks real. The CGI here is exceptional—none of the rubbery, uncanny valley awkwardness that often plagues effects-heavy films. Every scene with Toothless feels grounded and believable, which is wild when you think about the fact that you’re watching a giant cat-like dragon with retractable teeth.
This movie doesn’t just avoid the usual remake pitfalls—it soars. It’s funny, tender, action-packed, and emotionally resonant. It works for die-hard fans and newcomers alike. It’s the rare kind of adaptation that feels like a celebration, not a repetition.
Final Verdict: A heartfelt, high-flying adaptation that honors the original while carving its own path. A+
Have you seen the live-action How to Train Your Dragon yet? What did you think of the changes—or the things they kept the same? Let me know your favorite moment in the comments!
Be kind to yourself and to others. — Jake
