Overview

• The film directed by Dean DeBlois premiered June 13, marking Universal Pictures’ first live-action adaptation of a DreamWorks property with Mason Thames as Hiccup and Gerard Butler returning as Stoick.
• Critics commended the faithful recreation of key sequences, John Powell’s score and stronger supporting performances that add nuance to familiar characters.
• The CGI dragons earned praise for their realism and intensity, though some reviews argue the live-action format sacrifices the original’s sense of wonder.
• Reception is split between those who value the remake’s loyalty to the 2010 classic and those who criticize its lack of fresh creativity or emotional spark.
• DeBlois says he will use audience and critical feedback from Part 1 to guide writing and tone for the planned 2027 sequel.