How to Train Your Dragon Review
By Radiocity Team
Published Jun 13, 2025
A Tale Retold
The film revisits the beloved story of Hiccup, a young Viking who defies his tribe`s tradition by befriending a formidable Night Fury dragon named Toothless.
Faithful Adaptation
Director Dean DeBlois, who also directed the 2010 animated original, creates a remarkably similar, often shot-for-shot, recreation of his own work.
A Charming Hiccup
Mason Thames offers a likeable and sympathetic portrayal of Hiccup, effectively grounding the film`s more whimsical moments with his earnest performance.
Impressive Reprisal
Gerard Butler returns as Stoick, Hiccup`s father, delivering a genuinely great performance that captures the stubborn yet loving core of the character.
Scrappy and Charismatic
Nico Parker brings a suitable level of scrappiness and charisma to the role of Astrid, the tough young warrior and Hiccup`s initial foil and later ally.
Expanded Side Roles
The remake features slightly expanded roles for some side characters, including the town`s elder, Gothi, and a small subplot for Spitelout and Snotlout.
Visual Discrepancies
While some flying sequences are handled well, the overall naturalism can feel muted, with dark and foggy visuals that sometimes obscure the action.
A Rousing Score
Composer John Powell returns to revamp his original score. The iconic "Test Drive" theme remains a powerful and emotionally resonant piece of music.
Enduring Message
The film`s core message about empathy, questioning violence, and the strength in pacifism remains as potent and necessary as it was in the original.
A Worthy, Yet Redundant Watch
The film`s faithfulness makes it feel redundant for fans of the original. However, its heart and soul shine through, making it a touching, if safe, retelling.
Japan’s Most Beautiful Castles
