The magic returns: first reviews of the live-action "How to Train Your Dragon"

Universal and DreamWorks Pictures have unveiled their live-action adaptation of the legendary animated film How to Train Your Dragon at CinemaCon, the annual film conference for the press and theater owners. And the initial reviews are overwhelmingly enthusiastic: the film is already being called one of the best live-action remakes of an animated film.

Although the audience was shown a semi-final version, the film received a standing ovation during the credits. The scene where Hiccup flies on Toothless for the first time was particularly popular, drawing a standing ovation halfway through the screening.

What critics say: "The magic of the original is preserved"

"How to Train Your Dragon is spectacular!" wrote journalist Scott Menzel on the social network X. "A visually stunning and emotionally moving retelling of a classic. Director Dean DeBlois recreates the magic of the original with dynamics, humor and warmth. Mason Thames as Hiccup is a perfect fit, as is the entire cast. This is a film that you definitely need to see on the big screen - it will remind you why we love movies in the first place. It will clearly be a huge hit!"

Producer and host of The Movie Podcast, Daniel Baptista, called the film:

"A stunning reimagining of one of the most beloved animated stories. It retains everything that made the original special and takes it to the next level - with captivating visuals and a great story for a new generation."

Film critic Tessa Smith noted:

"This remake retains the charm of the original, but at the same time achieves things I never imagined. The cast is incredible, the dragons are magical, I can't even tell you how many times I cried. It's truly something fantastic."

Gizmodo senior reporter Germaine Lussier wrote:

"The film almost completely captures the magic of the original. All the key moments are preserved, and each one is filled with heart and excitement. The acting is excellent. My only complaint is that the new elements, while enjoyable, don't add any significant depth to the film."

Press representative Emmanuel Gomez added:

"This is one of the most faithful live-action remakes of animation I've seen. The cast is perfect, the dragon designs are balanced and don't distract from the plot. The soundtrack is amazing. Not to be missed! And yes, now I want a dragon too!"

Plot and cast: new life for familiar characters

Written and directed by Dean DeBlois, the original trilogy's writer and director, this time it's Hiccup, a skinny Viking who refuses to follow his tribe's traditions and hunt dragons, much to the dismay of his strict father, Stoick, played by Gerard Butler, the village leader and legendary dragon slayer.

Also starring:

• Julian Dennison - Fishlegs

• Gabriel Howell as Smurfette

• Bronwyn James - The Squirrel

• Harry Trevaldwin - The Pervert

• Nick Frost as Patyak

Future plans: part two is just around the corner

Despite the general audience fatigue from live-action remakes, How to Train Your Dragon remains a consistently successful DreamWorks franchise. The three animated films have collectively grossed over $1,6 billion worldwide.

The premiere at CinemaCon was announced back in February. The studio says we can expect a sequel in the coming years. Universal's president of US distribution Jim Orr said:

“We are excited to be the first to share this film with our industry partners, who will help bring this incredible adventure to audiences around the world this summer.”