But arguably the most fun catch we made is the inclusion of director DeBlois in the actual Isle of Berk. Actor Mason Thames (Hiccup) and Nico Parker (Astrid) confirmed the cameo to NBC Insider when we spoke to them for the film's junket.

Director Dean DeBlois recreates "The Forbidden Friendship" and "Test Drive" sequences with a new and improved Toothless.

In an era of skepticism around live-action remakes, Universal believes audiences will take flight with Hiccup and Toothless again.

Dean DeBlois’ 2025 live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon is a thrilling, emotionally resonant triumph—an example of how to honor the soul of a belo

Universal’s How to Train Your Dragon is on track to fly in with a global debut of just over $200M, landing higher than pre-weekend projections. The live-action take on the beloved animated franchise through yesterday had grossed $54.

On the set of the live-action movie, Toothless and the other dragons existed as large puppets with simple functions, operated by a team of master puppeteers led by Tom Wilton, a performer who had worked on the “War Horse” stage play.

Writer-director Dean DeBlois breaks down how he nailed the film's epic flying scene, from Toothless's design to making Hiccup star Mason Thames look like he was really riding a dragon. Thames' mom suggested playing the film's score while he shot the scene,