Director of the Animated Trilogy Returns for Live-Action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ – Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Casting Secrets

The friendship and grand adventure of Viking boy Hiccup and his dragon Toothless return in the live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon (releasing September 5), with director Dean DeBlois sharing behind-the-scenes stories and casting insights in a newly released special video.

The film is based on the original animated hit produced by DreamWorks Animation, the studio behind Shrek, The Boss Baby, and The Wild Robot. The first film, released in 2010, earned nominations for Best Animated Feature and Best Original Score at the Academy Awards, and was highly acclaimed at the Golden Globe Awards and the Annie Awards. It grossed approximately $500 million worldwide (Box Office Mojo).

Now, with cutting-edge visual effects, the live-action How to Train Your Dragon takes the epic to an even greater scale. Combining masterful storytelling with breathtaking visuals, the film has already grossed over $623.65 million worldwide as of August 4.

Dean DeBlois, who has helmed the trilogy over the past decade, returns to direct. In the footage, he expresses his joy at revisiting this world, with scenes from the making of previous films also shown. “I missed the characters and that world,” he says. “It’s meaningful, filled with adventure and wonder—a story that resonates with everyone.”

Set on the island of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have clashed for generations, the story follows Hiccup, the son of the village chief, and Toothless, a Night Fury feared as the fiercest dragon of all. As they bridge the divide between their worlds, the narrative captures their growth and emotional journey.

The film also explores Hiccup’s inner struggle as he navigates the gap between tradition and new values. “Living life at your own pace is a life lesson for me, and something I want to cherish,” DeBlois reflects, revealing his deep connection to the film’s message of respecting diversity.

Mason Thames plays Hiccup in the live-action adaptation, with Nico Parker cast as Astrid. The casting focused not on replicating the animated characters, but on whether the actors possessed an instinctive on-screen presence. “The moment they walked in, Hiccup and Astrid came to life. I couldn’t imagine anyone else,” says DeBlois.

Gerard Butler also reprises his role as Stoick from the animated series. “When you think of Stoick, you think of Gerard. He feels like he stepped right out of the animation—it’s thrilling to watch,” the director praises.

In closing, DeBlois says, “I hope everyone who loves this story enjoys it along with the respect we’ve poured into it,” showing his heartfelt commitment and confidence in the finished work.

Source : ORICON NEWS