The fans of the popular How to Train Your Dragon series have plenty to anticipate over the next few years, with Universal Pictures releasing the live-action sequel to How to Train Your Dragon 2 on June 11, 2027.
The sequel follows the release of the live-action remake of the original 2010 animated film, which will be released just two days before, on June 13, 2025.
At CinemaCon here this week, the studio made the exciting announcement about the sequel, to the delight of movie industry insiders and fans who attended the convention for annual movie theater owners. Universal also released a teaser for the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon, building even more anticipation for this next installment in the saga of Hiccup, Toothless, and their Viking buddies.
Dean DeBlois Returns to Steer the Sequel
The reason why this live-action reboot is different from the rest is because franchise creator Dean DeBlois has returned, who has been part of the How to Train Your Dragon franchise since its inception. DeBlois co-created the original trilogy of animated films and has now directed the live-action adaptation of the first film and its sequel.
DeBlois took the stage at CinemaCon with actor Gerard Butler (Stoick the Vast) and rising star Nico Parker (Astrid) to announce the release date of the sequel, but also to reflect on the journey that led them here. DeBlois explained that the live-action remake offered a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the relationships and world-building that were occasionally glossed over in the original animated films.
Way back then in 2010, the schedule was tight, and we could not afford to explore every layer of the world that we were creating," DeBlois explained. "Now, with the live-action model, we get to go back and revisit the tale, make the connections between the characters richer, and add more mythology so the audience can have an richer experience.".
For the fans of the animated movies, this heralds a thrilling continuation of the well-loved universe, providing more depth to the characters they have come to love over the years.
The Ongoing Success of the Franchise
The How to Train Your Dragon franchise has been a huge success for DreamWorks Animation, with a combined worldwide box office total of more than $1.6 billion for the trilogy. The original film, in 2010, was followed by How to Train Your Dragon 2 in 2014 and How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World in 2019. All the movies had favorable critiques from critics, and the franchise won four Academy Award nominations.
The second installment, How to Train Your Dragon 2, introduced new depths of conflict and deeper themes as Hiccup (voiced by Jay Baruchel) and Toothless found a scheme to create an army of dragons. This film also expanded the world of Berk and explored Hiccup's relationship with his father, Stoick (Gerard Butler), and his mysterious mother, Valka (voiced by Cate Blanchett). The 2014 animated sequel is particularly beloved for its tear-jerking emotional moments, and there is hope among the fans regarding how the live-action version will be able to do the same.
Live-Action "How to Train Your Dragon" Gets Early Praise
Although the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon will not come until June 2025, Universal Pictures has already screened a teaser for the film at CinemaCon. The initial reaction has been overwhelmingly positive with critics and audiences alike hailing the eye-popping visuals and respectful yet reimagined retelling of the movie. Apparently, Universal and DeBlois are hell-bent on maintaining the success of the original film while launching the franchise with fresh energy with its cutting-edge visual effects and live-action performances.
With its celestial cast, headed by Mason Thames as Hiccup, Nico Parker as Astrid, and Butler's reprisal of the role of Stoick, the film can be sure to win hearts both of those who have loved the franchise till eternity and obviously, new individuals as well. Live-action remake How to Train Your Dragon will include a blend of state-of-the-art CGI dragons, grand Viking realms, and lovely storytelling—elements which made the very first animated film become such a one-time all-time fan favorite.
What to Expect of the Sequel
Planned to be released only two years after the remake, How to Train Your Dragon 2 in live-action guarantees to pick up where the animated sequel left off. Its supporters will find a grown-up Hiccup, now 20 years old, a battle-seasoned leader of Berk. The sequel will find Hiccup and his companions fighting against an evil madman who plans to conquer the world with an army of evil dragons.
While plot details are scarce and far between, it's assured that the live-action sequel will build on the emotional and sweeping storytelling of its predecessors and afford audiences a chance to become acquainted with the universe of dragons and Vikings again in a new yet different manner. The live-action sequel will depict the growing rapport between Hiccup and Toothless, both their shared learning experience, and how they would have to cope with the challenge ahead as a new generation of Vikings and dragons come together as one to guard their homeland.
New characters will also be introduced for viewers to enjoy, continuing to expand the world of How to Train Your Dragon mythology. DeBlois has suggested that the sequel will delve further into the vast world of the dragons, giving more of a glimpse into their origin and how they connect with the Vikings.
A New Chapter in the How to Train Your Dragon Legacy
With two major releases planned for 2025 and 2027, the live-action How to Train Your Dragon films are set to become a cultural phenomenon, just like their animated counterparts. The combination of old favorites, stunning visuals, and warm storytelling will undoubtedly capture the hearts of young and old viewers alike.
As the How to Train Your Dragon series evolves, there can be no doubt that it will remain a cornerstone of modern animated and live-action cinema, offering audiences an unforgettable journey into a realm where dragons fill the air, friendships are forged, and heroes are born.
So mark it on your calendars: How to Train Your Dragon will soar again in 2025, and the sequel will continue the adventure in 2027. The dragon-packed saga is not even near an end, and the fans have much more to look forward to in the coming adventures.
