How to Train Your Dragon (2025) review

A Soaring Return to Berk: How to Train Your Dragon (2025) Rekindles the Magic

It’s been years since we last flew alongside Hiccup and Toothless, watching their world evolve from wary coexistence to heartfelt friendship. The How to Train Your Dragon franchise has always balanced thrilling aerial sequences with grounded, emotional storytelling. Now, in 2025, the saga returns with a fresh chapter that both honors the legacy and introduces new elements for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

This latest installment, directed by Dean DeBlois, preserves the heart of the original trilogy while expanding its world with maturity and visual spectacle. What makes this sequel stand out isn’t just the breathtaking animation or pulse-raising action sequences, but its thoughtful narrative about legacy, growing up, and what we leave behind.

Plot Overview

The story picks up years after the events of The Hidden World. Hiccup, now an older, wiser leader, finds himself at a crossroads as a new threat emerges from the skies — a mysterious band of rogue dragon riders determined to exploit the bond between humans and dragons for their own gain. Meanwhile, Toothless, now ruling his own hidden dragon utopia, must decide whether to remain secluded or reunite with his human companion for one final mission.

Without spoiling the key twists, this film introduces a new generation of young Vikings, including Hiccup's own children, who each bring unique skills and personalities to the narrative. Their dynamic with the older characters provides a welcome contrast, keeping the story fresh while still drenched in nostalgia.

Animation & Visuals

It’s no exaggeration to say that this is the most visually stunning entry in the series to date. DreamWorks Animation has outdone itself, with meticulously crafted aerial battles, lush landscapes, and gorgeously textured dragons that feel both fantastical and believable. The film’s color palette evolves with the narrative’s tone — bright and airy during moments of hope, somber and subdued when danger looms.

The design of the new dragon species is particularly impressive. Each one boasts distinctive features and flight patterns, adding depth to the world-building. A personal favorite is a storm-colored dragon that manipulates wind currents, creating jaw-dropping midair sequences that left the audience in awe.

Voice Acting & Soundtrack

Returning voice actors like Jay Baruchel, America Ferrera, and Gerard Butler (in a memorable flashback) breathe life into their characters with the same warmth and familiarity that made the original trilogy so beloved. Newcomers to the cast seamlessly fit into the world of Berk, with standout performances from younger characters who capture both the wonder and responsibility of interacting with dragons.

Composer John Powell once again crafts a sweeping score that perfectly complements the visuals. His use of recurring musical motifs subtly ties this sequel to its predecessors, evoking emotions from past adventures while forging new memories.

Themes & Emotional Core

At its heart, How to Train Your Dragon (2025) is a film about inheritance — not just in terms of possessions or leadership, but values, relationships, and courage. Hiccup's internal conflict mirrors what many adults face: the desire to shield loved ones from danger while recognizing the importance of letting them chart their own course.

The film also revisits the central message of coexistence between humans and dragons. In an era dominated by stories of conflict, this film’s emphasis on empathy, understanding, and cooperation feels both timely and timeless.

The emotional beats land effectively, with several scenes drawing genuine reactions from the audience. One particularly poignant moment between Hiccup and Toothless, set against a twilight sky, serves as a reminder of the enduring bond between friends separated by time and circumstance.

Audience Appeal

Whether you’re a dedicated fan of the series or a newcomer, this film offers something for everyone. It skillfully balances action, humor, and heart without leaning too heavily in any one direction. The younger generation of characters ensures accessibility for kids, while the mature themes and callbacks satisfy longtime followers.

While some plot elements feel familiar, the execution is heartfelt enough to overlook minor predictability. The film wisely avoids overcomplicating its narrative, focusing instead on character development and emotional payoff.