The anticipation surrounding the How To Train Your Dragon live-action adaptation is palpable, especially with director Dean DeBlois at the helm for the sequel. Set to debut on June 11, 2027, the reimagined version of the beloved 2010 animated classic tracks the journey of young Viking Hiccup, played by Mason Thames, as he navigates his growing affinity for dragons amidst an expected clash. With projections indicating a staggering $80 million opening weekend in the U.S., this film is poised to achieve the highest domestic opening in the franchise’s history. Interestingly, by April, the studio had already greenlit How To Train Your Dragon 2.
In a recent conversation with ComicBook.com, DeBlois hinted at a significant tonal shift for the sequel compared to its 2014 predecessor. He described the new storyline, which includes the heart-wrenching angle of Toothless being weaponized against Hiccup, as a narrative laden with emotional weight. DeBlois emphasized that the adaptation would magnify the original’s themes, enhancing the film’s emotional depth. He expressed excitement about portraying these heavier themes in live action:
Certainly in the second movie, tackling the whole idea of Toothless being weaponized and turned against Hiccup and Stoic intervening like that, that’s a pretty heavy moment. It was heavy for animation. I think it’ll get even weightier in live action, so I look forward to that, too… It’s a little bit darker and more expansive.
What This Means For How To Train Your Dragon 2
The Sequel Will Be Darker, Which Is Very Much Expected
As fans look forward to the sequel, DeBlois is already contemplating audience reactions closely. In an interview with SYFY, he indicated his willingness to adjust the script based on viewer feedback. He acknowledged the potential for a deeper exploration of themes if audiences appreciate the faithful retelling of the story:
If people like the faithful quality to it, that opens up the possibility to go deeper into scenes and to course correct some things that I live with as regrets. The second movie is a favorite for most fans, so if my theory proves correct… then that’s the path I’ll go down.
Early indications show that audiences are enjoying the adaptation, with the film currently boasting an A CinemaScore and a staggering 98% on Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter. While it’s not a shot-for-shot remake, viewers have appreciated the authenticity brought to the character of Toothless, who now embodies a more realistic persona. As DeBlois seeks to refine the script further, we can expect more fleshed-out character arcs, particularly for Astrid, who has received a deeper narrative in the latest adaptation.
The stakes in How To Train Your Dragon 2 could escalate dramatically, especially with the possibility of seeing Hiccup face both Toothless and significant losses. The introduction of Hiccup’s mother, Valkaâ€â€initially introduced as a character abducted by dragons only to become a defender of themâ€â€could add layers of complexity. While casting decisions haven’t been finalized, DeBlois has expressed interest in reuniting with Cate Blanchett, who voiced Valka in the original series.
Our Take On How To Train Your Dragon 2’s Tone
Live-Action Always Feels Different & More Dramatic
Adapting animated stories into live action inherently brings a new texture to emotional storytelling. While animated talents often showcase vibrant expressions, live-action performances can evoke a more visceral reaction; seeing Mason Thames, as a heartbroken Hiccup, can pierce the soul in ways that animation cannot. The director seemed committed to amplifying these emotional undercurrents, as evidenced by the darker tone established in the latest remake.
Additionally, the live-action interpretation of Toothless presents a more imposing figure. This evolution will magnify the stakes in the sequel, making pivotal moments even more impactful. The darker atmosphere envisioned by DeBlois is a natural progression, and the early positive reception indicates a bright future for the franchise.
Source: ComicBook.com & SYFY