Latest news with #NightFury
Hype Malaysia
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Hype Malaysia
'How To Train Your Dragon' (2025) Review: An Honest Recreation That Brings Back Everything We Love About The Original
Let's face it, we all have that special show or film that we can't help but watch on loop when we're down or there's nothing else better to binge on. One such film that manages to find itself at such a coveted spot is none other than the hit 2010 animated film 'How To Train Your Dragon'. For those who weren't able to catch the film in its first go-around, it was a pivotal release that captivated a generation thanks to its beautiful score, visuals, and message and is still widely loved to this day. However, if you missed your chance to catch it in theatres the first time, then good news: it's back, this time with a fresh, live-action coat of paint. Directed by Dean DeBlois and with music by John Powell, this film is here to once again unleash some draconic mischief for both the uninitiated and the nostalgic. The story takes place, once again, in Berk, an isolated island far off the world, filled with the hardiest of Vikings imaginable. They are a resilient bunch, and they have to be, as they have been locked in a vicious war against the dragons for generations. Despite their hardened lifestyle, an inquisitive boy who'd rather ask questions first before fighting emerges – enter Hiccup (played by Mason Thames). He is a scrawny kid who wants nothing more than to be recognised by his father and tribe chieftain, Stoick the Vast (played by Gerard Butler). However, his life begins to change when he befriends Toothless, a Night Fury dragon. Torn between two worlds, Hiccup struggles to keep his friendship a secret as he simultaneously discovers that the very foundation of Viking society is wrong. But let's be honest: if you've watched the original, then you'd know this story by heart. And why is that? It's because this film is an honest-to-God, beat-for-beat remake of the 2010 original, barring a few differences. One of the key differences between this film compared to the original is that it features an additional 27 minutes to its runtime, expanding on the story a bit, though it does lose a joke or two. There's hardly any change to the original, and why should there be? We can all agree that the original was practically perfect and that messing with it might just enrage the fanbase (something that has been happening way too often as of late). This is a fact that director Dean DeBlois knew well, as he is also one of the co-directors for the original animated film. However, there have been a lot of added details that make the world feel more alive compared to the original. Let's discuss them. First things first, have you ever noticed that, in the animated trilogy, we only see Hiccup's parents? He's hardly the only child in the clan, so what gives? Well, in the remake, we actually see some of the other parents, namely Snotlout's (played by Gabriel Howell) dad. This adds some needed depth and perhaps justifies why Snotlout was always an in-your-face character in the original; sure, we see his father in the original as well, but he has actual dialogue and interaction with his very own flesh and blood, which is a nice touch. Furthermore, have you ever wondered why Astrid (played by Nico Parker) had this animosity towards Hiccup in the original film? Sure, our protagonist was bullied by his classmates, but Astrid loathed Hiccup even before the dragon training, something that only worsened until she met Toothless. The remake answers that too by giving her a backstory where she comes from nothing and that she had to fight for recognition, unlike Hiccup, who can mess up and get away with it because he's the son of the chieftain. In its entirety, 'How To Train Your Dragon' (2025) is an amazing recreation that was only possible through its amazing cast. Right off the bat, Mason Thames does an amazing job of recreating the immature nature of the original Hiccup and his slow but steady transformation into a Viking we'd follow to the ends of the Earth. Nico Parker brings a more grounded reinterpretation of Astrid; though it doesn't stray much from the original, she manages to find away to deviate from simply being a love interest without staining the original. Then there is Butler's Stoick the Vast. You know you're a damn good actor when they have to pull you from the original voice acting cast to the live-action remake. He is an intimidating beast who honours his animated counterpart by going toe-to-toe with dragons in an epic fistfight. Not only that, his acting prowess really shines during the more emotional beats of the story, showing us that there's more to that wall of muscle and beard. But that's not even half of it yet. We were fully immersed thanks to the excellent blending of CGI that makes everything feel natural and real. Partially shot in Northern Ireland, we could feel that each area is alive with every overhead and long shot shown to us. From the practical to the computer-generated sets, there is not a scene that feels out of place, especially when you add in the dragons and the human cast to the mix, doubly so when it comes to the fight scenes. A major gripe we have with the original was the final fight; it was supposed to be an epic confrontation between Hiccup and Toothless against the Alpha Dragon. Rather than a daring battle in the sky, all we got was the protagonists zipping amongst the clouds, taking potshots whenever they could. In the remake, however, the fight scenes are more visceral and intense, and the fact that we get to see most of it adds to the intensity. However, it is not entirely perfect. Despite the animation teams' best efforts, Toothless is a tad goofy, but this is largely due to natural design rather than something that is lost in translation. Though he blends nicely with the human cast, you do notice how jarring it could be when you place him side by side with the rest of the dragons. As for the story, we noticed a few key changes that actually hurt the film. One thing that was sorely missing was Hiccup's epiphany, where our protagonist discovers that dragons are fundamentally different from what they initially assumed. Not only that, in that same scene, he discovers that dragons are not fireproof on the inside. It is a small change, yes, but we cannot deny the snowball-like implications this has at the end of the original film. There are a few gags that we are missing as well, such as Hiccup fainting after freeing Toothless, Hiccup being bound to Toothless for a night following a day of training, and much more. But these are tiny nitpicks, and barring the previously mentioned one, not much of the story is changed. But since almost everything is the same, does it really warrant a live-action remake? That's something only you can decide. Overall, 'How To Train Your Dragon' (2025) plunges us back into the world of Berk in a stunning live-action recreation that is as true to the original as it can be. Though it is a beat-for-beat retelling of the original, it adds a lot of details that further expands the world and its characters in a way that can satisfy both lovers of the classic as well as emerging fans. 'How To Train Your Dragon' will land in theatres on 12th June, 2025. What's your Reaction? +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 +1 0 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Telegram for more updates and breaking news.
USA Today
a day ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Live action 'How to Train Your Dragon' lives up to the original movie
Live action 'How to Train Your Dragon' lives up to the original movie Show Caption Hide Caption 'How to Train Your Dragon' takes flight in live action: Watch Mason Thames stars as the Viking boy Hiccup, who instead of slaying dragons befriends one in the live-action remake of "How to Train Your Dragon." The making of a live-action redo of a classic animated movie should embrace the same sort of good sense as being a doctor: Do no harm. And while you're at it, don't ruin anyone's childhood. On all counts, the new 'How to Train Your Dragon' (★★★½ out of four; rated PG; in theaters June 13) manages to be a rousing success. For the past 15 years, the first spectacular adaptation of the Cressida Cowell book has thrilled audiences as the most emotionally stirring cartoon not made by Pixar. Original writer/director Dean DeBlois returns for a revamped 'Dragon' that feels like a different experience but is just as good as the original, with moments of wonder and awe featuring characters fleshed out in new ways – literally and figuratively. Join our Watch Party! Sign up to receive USA TODAY's movie and TV recommendations right in your inbox If it ain't broke, don't fix it, and smartly, the new take sticks mostly to the first film's script. On the island of Berk, Hiccup (Mason Thames) is an awkward but likable kid who's not the most rough-and-tough Viking of all time, much to the chagrin of his gruff dad Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his voice role). Stoick and the adults fight and slay dragons, and pass on this generational aggression to their youngsters. During a dragon raid, Hiccup winds up wounding a Night Fury, an ultra-rare and little-known species, and tracks him down. But instead of killing the creature, who's got big eyes and is adorable even when somewhat dangerous, the inventive Hiccup befriends and names him Toothless, fixes his injured tail so he can fly, and they bond airborne-style as ride-or-die besties. The animated Hiccup and Toothless were cool enough swooping through the air. But now, watching Thames soar atop a computer-generated dragon is like the exhilaration of a theme-park flight simulator matched with the adrenaline rush of 'Top Gun,' all while landing squarely in the feels. The various dragons really pop as digital creations given new dimension, including the ginormous monster that acts as a final boss requiring an epic human/beast team-up to defeat. The live-action interactions between characters also hit differently, especially for teens and tweens, though 'Dragon' is still very much an all-ages family movie. With human actors, there's more of a high-school movie vibe as Hiccup becomes more accepted among the young Vikings, and the relationship between Thames' Hiccup and his frenemy/crush Astrid (Nico Parker) is built out a little more here. The two actors have a natural chemistry that animated characters just can't replicate. Astrid doesn't think much of Hiccup in the beginning, yet he grows on her – and the audience – the more he gains needed confidence and even a smidge of swagger. (Or as much as one can boast wearing their mom's breastplate as a helmet.) Rather than repeat Jay Baruchel's enjoyably nerdy Hiccup from the 2010 'Dragon,' Thames plays our hero as a teen still figuring a lot of things out but inherently knowing he needs to be true to himself. It leads to some enjoyable and a few really heated exchanges between empathetic Hiccup and his stubborn dad. Butler has done a lot of action movies since his early 'Dragon' days, but he brings the needed gravitas to make this not just a boy-and-his-dragon tale but a strong father-and-son journey as well. 'How to Train Your Dragon' is a lesson for anybody tackling a remake. It doesn't try to half do something old and something new, like 'Snow White,' and makes the case for being actually necessary, unlike 'Lilo & Stitch.' As it was back in the day, Toothless is a joy to watch and the movie's best special effect but he's also a symbol of growth: as watchable and lovable as ever, yet with a slightly more mature sheen. Fortunately, the new 'How to Train Your Dragon' does no harm. Instead, it lets loose a heartwarming, meaty adventure perfect for a new generation of young film fan but doesn't forget to entertain the older movie kids, either. How to watch 'How to Train Your Dragon' "How to Train Your Dragon," the live-action remake of the 2010 animated adventure, is directed by Dean DeBlois and stars Mason Thames and Gerard Butler. The movie is rated PG by the Motion Picture Association "for sequences of intense action, and peril."
Epoch Times
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Epoch Times
Epoch Watchlist: Recommended Viewing for June 6–12
This week, we feature a charming romcom full of engaging mix-ups and a fresh live-action take on a beloved animated saga featuring dragons and Vikings. New Release 'How to Train Your Dragon' On the island of Berk, where Vikings and dragons are sworn enemies, Hiccup (Mason Thames) breaks tradition by befriending a Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond could be the key to lasting peace, in this striking live-action reimagining of the beloved 2010 film. This adaptation—gritty, emotional, and beautifully told—breathes fresh energy into a familiar story. Mason Thames brings quiet strength to Hiccup, leading a tale that values empathy over fear. More than nostalgia, this is a brave and profoundly heartfelt retelling.
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
BBC The One Show halted live on air as Alex Jones announces last minute change
The One Show's Alex Jones had to abruptly interrupt the programme as she announced a last-minute guest change. On the Wednesday (June 4) episode, Alex, alongside co-host Vernon Kay, was set to chat with a stellar line-up including Nick Frost and Mason Thames about the much-anticipated live-action remake of How To Train Your Dragon. But just before diving into the interview, Alex stopped the show to share that Nick Frost had to step in for Gerard Butler, who was struck down by illness and couldn't attend. Alex said: "We're thrilled that you're here Nick because as we said last night Ger.. I can't even say his name so lucky he's not here, Gerard Butler was going to be here but he's ill so he couldn't make it but you've stepped in at the last minute so thank you very much." Nick Frost lightened the mood with a humorous apology: "Sorry everyone.", reports Wales Online. The audience chuckled as Alex added: "We're thrilled you're here, thank you Nick." Although Gerard Butler was absent, Mason Thames, who voices Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III in the movie, was full of praise for his co-star. Mason, when quizzed about working with Butler, enthused: "He is really great and in this industry he is somewhat of a father figure. He has a lot of good advice because he has been doing this for such a long time." He went on to say: "Listening to what he has got to say and the experiences he has been through is really helpful and it's cool to be on this journey with him as well. "Getting to do those scenes with him and the energy he brings to set, the scenes and rare emotional it's incredible to watch in person and to see on screen is incredible." The official blurb for the live-action How to Train Your Dragon reads: "On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup stands apart. "The inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast, Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society." It continues: "With the fierce and ambitious Astrid and the village's quirky blacksmith Gobber by his side, Hiccup confronts a world torn by fear and misunderstanding. "As an ancient threat emerges, endangering both Vikings and dragons, Hiccup's friendship with Toothless becomes the key to forging a new future. Together, they must navigate the delicate path toward peace, soaring beyond the boundaries of their worlds and redefining what it means to be a hero and a leader".
Tom's Guide
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Tom's Guide
LEGO Toothless from ‘How to Train Your Dragon' is finally here — I've never pre-ordered something so fast
I could spend an entire day explaining why 'How to Train Your Dragon' is my favorite animated movie franchise: a coming-of-age story celebrating emotional growth; soaring scores that complements the Viking-inspired villages; and the progression of dragons from fearsome beasts to loyal allies. But if I only were allowed one word to capture my love of 'How to Train Your Dragon?' That's easy: Toothless, a.k.a. the most expressive, endearing dragon to ever fly across the silver screen. And thanks to LEGO, I can now enjoy building my very own 784-piece Night Fury at home. Available starting July 1, this 784-piece LEGO Icons set brings Toothless the Night Fury to life. Complete with true-to-movie details and even a little snack, this is a must-have for fans of the franchise. This latest installment to LEGO's Ideas (the collection of fan-designed and -submitted sets) has been revealed just in time for the live-action 'How to Train Your Dragon,' which hits theaters on June 13 as one of this summer's biggest movies. Although the Toothless (10375) set doesn't launch officially until July 1, you can pre-order it now for $69.99 at Between the big eyes, printed scales and a mischievous expression, this version of Toothless is totally precious. Hiccup's pal stands at 16 cm (6.5 inches) tall, which makes him small enough to display easily, but movable joints elevate the final product. He even comes with a fish (for snacking, obviously) and a little blue plasma-blast that fits in his mouth like he's ready to defend Berk at any moment. LEGO also nailed the details with his signature red tail fin that Hiccup repaired after their first crash landing. Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. Speaking of Hiccup, I was a little disappointed that LEGO won't include a Hiccup minifigure, especially considering this version of Toothless is outfitted with a saddle. I found this custom one on Ebay, but I also wouldn't be surprised if a future 'How to Train Your Dragon' set provides more of the film's characters in minifigure form. Either way, Toothless in LEGO form feels like a long-overdue tribute to one of animation's greatest companions. And if you're anything like me (someone who tears up at the end of 'The Hidden World' every time, no matter how many times I've seen it) this is a set you'll want on your shelf.
