The initial installment of the series remained quite faithful to its source, and How to Train Your Dragon 2 looks to follow in similar fashion.
The anticipated 2027 cinematic epic acts as a continuation of the 2025 live-action reboot of How to Train Your Dragon and mirrors the 2014 animated sequel. Dean DeBlois is back as the writer-director, joined by most of his original cast. It has been confirmed that Cate Blanchett will reprise her role as Hiccup’s mother, Valka. New antagonists will be introduced, played by Ólafur Darri Ólafsson and Phil Dunster, portraying Drago and Eret respectively.
As production begins, Roy Lee provides insights on what fans can anticipate from How to Train Your Dragon 2. In a discussion with ScreenRant‘s Liam Crowley during the promotion of the horror-thriller Psycho Killer, the executive producer emphasized his reluctance to give away spoilers, stating they aim to “not disrupt what is already successful.” Highlighting Blanchett’s involvement, Lee mentioned that while the sequel will introduce some new elements, it will largely honor its foundational material.
Dean DeBlois had consistently committed to maintaining the integrity of the original How to Train Your Dragon in the 2025 live-action version, even replicating some iconic scenes exactly. This approach was evident in the promotional campaigns, which ignited some debate among fans about the necessity of a remake. Although the remake received a lukewarm reception from critics, it was well-received by audiences and became the highest-earning film in the series.
Despite its allegiance to the original, the 2025 remake included several modifications. A notable change that caused a stir was the casting of biracial actress Nico Parker as Astrid, which DeBlois defended based on her aptitude and the fantastical nature of the setting, even as he referenced the historical presence of non-white individuals among Vikings. The film also introduced subtle adjustments, from an additional action sequence featuring Astrid to more nods to Hiccup’s deceased mother Valka, a change in which limb Nick Frost’s Gobber was missing, and a shift to a more dramatic tone compared to the animated How to Train Your Dragon. These tweaks showed DeBlois’s intent to deepen the narrative.
Therefore, Lee’s remarks regarding the fidelity of How to Train Your Dragon 2 to its original sources are likely to be received positively by fans. Considering the 2025 remake garnered the lowest critical scores on Rotten Tomatoes within the franchise, DeBlois probably reflected on the balance of staying true to the original while making impactful emotional connections with the audience. Adhering to the elements that resonated well in both the 2014 sequel and the 2025 remake appears to be a promising strategy.
Ava Thornton is an entertainment journalist with a keen eye for the latest in Hollywood, indie films, and streaming trends.
Her work blends insider knowledge with a deep appreciation for storytelling.
