As a movie reviewer, I’m excited to share my thoughts on the much-anticipated live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon” that graces our screens this weekend. However, it seems to be falling short compared to its enchanting animated predecessor, as indicated by Rotten Tomatoes where it scored a 22% lower rating on their Tomatometer than the original film.
Interestingly, both versions of the film – the live-action and the animated one – were masterfully directed by Dean DeBlois. Yet, according to the critical reviews compiled for the Tomatometer score, the heartwarming tale of friendship between young Viking Hiccup (Mason Thames) and his magnificent Night Fury dragon Toothless appears to have lost some of its magical charm and has been streamlined in the transition to live action.
Frankly speaking, comparing the live-action version of “How to Train Your Dragon” with its original animated counterpart feels like a daunting task. The 2010 animated film has left an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike, earning a staggering 99% on Rotten Tomatoes’ Tomatometer. This movie was not just critically acclaimed but also a box office sensation, grossing nearly half a billion dollars worldwide. It even paved the way for two successful animated sequels before its live-action adaptation. As of now, the new live-action film is holding a 77% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which is impressive enough to secure the “Certified Fresh” title. However, this score might also suggest a growing weariness among critics towards live-action adaptations of beloved animated classics.
Live-Action How to Train Your Dragon May Falls Short With Critics, But Soars With Fans
Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon” outshines its animated predecessor in terms of audience approval. On Rotten Tomatoes’ Popcornmeter, a tool for fans and viewers to rate movies, the live-action film boasts an almost perfect 99% score, while the original animation has an impressive 91%. It’s intriguing that the version of “How to Train Your Dragon” which critics aren’t as enthusiastic about is gaining more favor with the audience.
In the evaluation between fans and critics of “How to Train Your Dragon”, it seems that nostalgia plays a significant role as a determining factor. Kyle Smith from The Wall Street Journal expressed his views quite frankly in his review of the live-action remake. He stated that the film, under the direction of Mr. DeBlois, echoes an old-fashioned approach to children’s filmmaking, characterized by the assumption of simplicity, which was a hallmark of the era before Star Wars.
Instead of criticizing the film’s content, Ester G commended the moviegoing experience in her review on Rotten Tomatoes. She mentioned taking her godson to watch the animated film when he was just three years old and now, at eighteen, watching it again brought a sense of nostalgia that earned five stars for her.
In response to your compliment, I’d say, “I wholeheartedly agree with you! The movie adaptation was marvelous, and they truly outdid themselves with the fresh, captivating scenes. The performances were outstanding, and I must admit, it surpassed my high expectations. Bravo!
In this live-action adaptation, titled “How to Train Your Dragon,” we find Mason Thomas, Nico Parker, Julian Dennison, Bronwyn James, and Gabriel Howell portraying young Vikings living on the mythical island of Berk. Gerard Butler returns as Stoick the Vast, Hiccup’s father, from the original animated film. The storyline remains consistent with the animated version, as an impending danger threatens both the Vikings and dragons residing on Berk. The bond between Hiccup, a resourceful Viking, and Toothless, a Night Fury dragon, becomes crucial in shaping a new coexistence for both species.
How to Train Your Dragon is now playing in theaters everywhere.
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2025-06-13 21:41