How to Train Your Dragon has soared past a significant benchmark in box office history, overtaking one of James Cameron’s iconic films. Known as a box office juggernaut, Cameron boasts three of the top five highest-grossing films ever with Titanic, Avatar, and Avatar: The Way of Water. His latest project, Avatar: Fire and Ash, promises to add to his impressive legacy.
This year, however, several films have shown remarkable commercial success. Notably, the live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon has been embraced by both critics and audiences, marking a new chapter of achievement.
According to Box Office Mojo, How to Train Your Dragon has officially surpassed Terminator 2: Judgment Day in all-time worldwide gross. Currently, the adaptation stands as the 245th highest-grossing film of all time, raking in $526.2 million. In contrast, Terminator 2 is at 251 with $517.7 million, a notable distinction for the animated franchise.
Beyond this milestone, How to Train Your Dragon has outperformed other major films, edging ahead of titles like Meet the Fockers, Kung Fu Panda 3, and Venom: Let There Be Carnage.
What This Victory Means For How To Train Your Dragon
The Film May Surpass Mission: Impossible
The reception of How to Train Your Dragon has far surpassed initial expectations. While some viewers raised concerns over the film’s close ties to the original during promotional campaigns, arguing its necessity, the release has garnered strikingly positive feedback. Currently boasting a Certified Fresh 77% on Rotten Tomatoes, the film earned an 8 out of 10 stars from ScreenRant’s Sarah Moran, who highlighted the spectacular visuals and talented cast.
In terms of ticket sales, the movie’s performance reflects this critical acclaim. How to Train Your Dragon is now the fifth highest-grossing film of 2025 and is positioned to potentially eclipse Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, which sits less than $60 million ahead in gross earnings.
A Bright Future for the Franchise
A Promising Horizon for the Franchise
The ongoing box office success of How to Train Your Dragon is an encouraging sign for DreamWorks. While Disney has been exploring live-action adaptations for over a decade, this marks DreamWorks’ inaugural venture into this territory. The triumph of this film likely sets the stage for more adaptations to follow.
Crucially, the film’s success boosts confidence in the forthcoming live-action How to Train Your Dragon 2, which was confirmed ahead of the remake’s debut. As the new adaptation levels up against classic films, its sustained box office momentum reinforces the franchise’s enduring appeal.
Source: BOM