How to Train Your Dragon live-action remake faces delays amid actors’ strike

Universal Pictures’ highly anticipated live-action remake of “How To Train Your Dragon” is facing an unexpected setback as production comes to a halt due to the ongoing strikes by the Writers Guild of America (WGA). The adaptation, which was scheduled to commence filming in Belfast’s Titanic Studios in August with an initially projected release date of March 2025, is currently on hold until the labor disputes are resolved.

The film, produced by Marc Platt Productions, is poised to bring a fresh perspective to the beloved 2010 animated film of the same name. Dean DeBlois, the creative force behind the original animated trilogy, is set to reprise his roles as both writer and director for the live-action adaptation. The decision to halt production underscores the impact of the WGA strikes on the entertainment industry, affecting projects of various scales and genres.

Amid the production delay, the cast for the live-action remake has been revealed, with Mason Thames and Nico Parker stepping into the roles of Hiccup and Astrid. Mason Thames, known for his roles in Scott Derrickson’s horror film “The Black Phone” and The CW’s “Walker,” is set to portray the young Viking Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III. Nico Parker, recognized for her performance in HBO’s “The Last of Us” as Sarah Miller, will embody the character of Astrid.

These casting choices carry a significant weight as Hiccup and Astrid are central characters in the “How to Train Your Dragon” narrative. The original voices for these characters in the animated trilogy were provided by Jay Baruchel and America Ferrara, respectively. The transition from animation to live-action brings a new dynamic to the iconic roles, and fans are eager to see how Thames and Parker will interpret and breathe life into these characters.

The “How to Train Your Dragon” franchise, inspired by Cressida Cowell’s children’s books, is renowned for its exploration of the endearing bond between Hiccup and Toothless, a wounded dragon nursed back to health. The first film, released in 2010, was followed by two sequels: “How to Train Your Dragon 2” in 2014 and “How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World” in 2019. Across these films, the narrative delves into themes such as challenging societal biases against dragons, coping with parental loss, and experiencing first love.

The franchise has received widespread critical acclaim, earning Academy Award nominations for Best Animated Feature for each installment. Beyond the films, the world of “How to Train Your Dragon” has expanded through numerous short films and an ongoing series. The most recent short film, “How to Train Your Dragon: Homecoming,” was released in 2019, and the series “DreamWorks Dragons: The Nine Realms” is currently in its sixth season, having been released in June 2023.

The live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon” now joins the growing list of movies, television series, and award ceremonies impacted by the 2023 WGA strikes. The initial release date of March 14, 2025, is currently uncertain due to the production delay, leaving fans eagerly awaiting updates as the situation unfolds in the wake of the ongoing labor disputes.

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