Live-Action Remake of How to Train Your Dragon: A Charming Reimagining

Reviewing a live-action adaptation of a beloved animated movie often raises several questions about the motives behind such endeavours. While many argue that these remakes are driven by profit motives and a dwindling creativity, these revamped versions have certainly proven profitable for many studios, including Disney. Recognizing the potential, DreamWorks has decided to venture into live-action remakes, starting with How to Train Your Dragon.

Originally launched as an enchanting animation in 2010, based on the children's book series by Cressida Cowell, the studio is now rebooting the film with Dean DeBlois, who co-directed the original, as the sole director and screenwriter. The feature film, starring a largely new cast, sticks quite closely to the original plotline while infusing a slight tonal change, stronger characterization and an adventurous dab into CGI.

In the remake, Mason Thames portrays Hiccup, the somewhat awkward but empathetic protagonist. Thames brings a familiar and charmingly buoyant energy to the role that contrasts with Jay Baruchel's more comically weary take in the original film. The plotline stays true to the original narrative, with Hiccup attempting to capture a Night Fury dragon and instead forming an unlikely bond with the creature.

The familiarity of the storyline doesn't deter from the charm of the remake, which builds on the original by adding more backstory, especially for Astrid, played by Nico Parker, and the rest of Hiccup's friends. Although the live-action doesn't break any new ground in terms of visual aesthetics, Dean DeBlois is successful in bringing Hiccup's friendship with Toothless, the Night Fury, to life.

While How to Train Your Dragon's live-action iteration may not be groundbreaking, it respects the allure and appeal of the original. In essence, it's a faithful retelling of the popular tale, says much about Hollywood's current fascination with live-action remakes.