How to Train Your Dragon Live Action Movie Review

Did you know the live-action version of How to Train Your Dragon, directed by Dean DeBlois, was released on June 13, 2025? This movie is fun and exciting, it also has some sweet and emotional parts, and it’s perfect for any dragon lover!

Hiccup is the main character, and everything in the story changes because of the choices he makes. He doesn’t feel right about his Viking tribe’s belief in killing dragons. One day, he meets a rare black Night Fury. Hiccup names the dragon Toothless because of the dragon’s attractive teeth. As Hiccup and Toothless’s bond grows stronger, he builds a saddle and makes a new tail fin for Toothless because the old one broke. This is a big deal because Vikings and dragons were always enemies. Hiccup’s actions show that dragons weren’t all bad. Later in the story, they fight a huge dragon-like monster, and Hiccup ends up losing part of his leg.

There were two things I loved about this movie. First, the bond between Hiccup and Toothless. Hiccup sees that Toothless is kind and gentle. Instead of slaying dragons like the others, he chooses to understand and communicate with the dragon. He even begs his father, Stoick the Vast, to let Toothless stay. Toothless also saves Hiccup from falling into the fire. Hiccup ends up alive! Second, I loved the flight scene. Toothless is very playful and fun, especially when he splashes the water and flies upside down. The friendship between Hiccup and Toothless is so genuine. The music of the flight scene is so beautiful. “Test Drive” , composed by John Powell, is very touching. It elevates the story and captures the freedom and joy of flying.

The only part I didn’t like was when Stoick chains up Toothless to make him lead the Vikings to the dragon’s nest. It felt unfair and upsetting because Toothless didn’t do anything wrong. He is only trying to help Hiccup because he trusts him. He is clearly upset and scared. He defends himself by roaring and trying to blast them with fire. I don’t think dragons should be treated like that. It feels wrong and unfair.

Overall, I would give this movie 4.5 out of 5 stars. It’s more than just a kids’ movie. It’s an awesome story that shows how a boy and a dragon become best friends, and it teaches about being brave and believing in yourself. It is great for anyone who loves dragons and adventures!

Sources: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/12/movies/how-to-train-your-dragon-review.html

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62g2mpkd3yo