FILM REVIEW – How to Train Your Dragon
⭐️⭐️⭐️½ Caroline Russo
Mason Thames, Gerard Butler, Nico Parker, Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Ruth Codd, Peter Serafinowicz, Murray McArthur
Cineams 12th June
How to Train Your Dragon returns to the big screen in a live-action adaptation that doesn’t just reimagine the beloved animated classic — it breathes new life into it with heartfelt performances, sweeping visuals, and a grounded sense of emotional connection that truly resonates.
This time around, young actor Mason Thames takes on the role of Hiccup, a clever but unlikely Viking hero who forms a bond with the very creature his village fears most: a Night Fury dragon he names Toothless. Thames delivers a wonderfully natural performance, bringing innocence, wit, and depth to the role. Opposite him, the legendary Gerard Butler plays Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s warrior father, in a role that carries authority, heart, and emotional weight. The father-son dynamic between them is one of the strongest elements of the film and gives it much of its soul.
Nico Parker steps into the female lead role with quiet strength and presence. She adds a grounded charm and intelligence to her character, making her more than just a supporting player — she’s pivotal to Hiccup’s journey and brings balance to the storyline. The chemistry between the young cast feels authentic and engaging, adding a layer of realism to this fantasy world.
Rounding out the cast is a solid ensemble that includes Nick Frost, Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Ruth Codd, Peter Serafinowicz, and Murray McArthur. Each actor adds texture and colour to the Viking world, creating a believable village dynamic and moments of levity where needed.
Visually, the film is spectacular. The special effects — particularly the flight scenes and dragon animations — are impressive without feeling overdone. The cinematography captures both the intimacy of the human relationships and the grandeur of dragon flight with equal care. It’s a world that feels vast but lived-in, fantastical yet rooted in real emotion.
At its core, the film is about breaking traditions and choosing compassion over conflict. Hiccup’s decision to befriend rather than fight Toothless challenges everything he’s been taught, and that message — about understanding, empathy, and forging your own path — feels just as powerful in this version as it did in the original.
For families, this is a great film to enjoy together. It has action, humour, heart, and some strong messages. That said, there are a few intense scenes involving dragon attacks and destruction that might be a bit much for very young viewers. Parental guidance is recommended for children under 10, but for most kids and teens, it’s an exciting, heartfelt journey that stays with you.
With outstanding performances from Mason Thames, Gerard Butler, and Nico Parker leading the charge, How to Train Your Dragon earns a solid 3½ stars. It’s a well-made, emotionally rich adventure that celebrates courage, friendship, and the beauty of seeing the world a little differently.
