How to Train Your Dragon Live-Action Heads to Netflix
The much-loved How to Train Your Dragon gets a live-action makeover, landing on Netflix Australia in February 2026. Dean DeBlois returns to direct, bringing a fresh take to the classic tale.
After a stint as a Peacock exclusive, last year’s live-action take on the classic animated fantasy How to Train Your Dragon is set to make its way to Netflix. The reimagined version, which first hit screens in June 2025, offers a new spin on the well-known saga, swapping animation for a visually striking live-action approach. Fans can look forward to catching it on Netflix from 10 February 2026, though only viewers in the United States will get access straight away. Other regions will have to wait a bit longer for the film to pop up on their local streaming services.
Fresh Faces and Familiar Voices
Dean DeBlois, the creative mind behind the original trilogy, returns to both write and direct this new adaptation. Gerard Butler, known for his roles in 300 and the Has Fallen series, reprises his part from the animated films, lending his voice once again. He’s joined by a fresh line-up, including Nick Frost (Shaun of the Dead, Paul), Mason Thames (The Black Phone, For All Mankind), Nico Parker (Dumbo, The Last of Us), Gabriel Howell (Bodies), Julian Dennison (Deadpool 2), Bronwyn James (Wicked), Harry Trevaldwyn (Smothered), and Peter Serafinowicz (Guardians of the Galaxy).
Plot and Characters
The story unfolds on the rugged island of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been at odds for generations. Hiccup, played by Mason Thames, is the inventive but often overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast, voiced by Gerard Butler. Hiccup bucks tradition by befriending Toothless, a Night Fury dragon feared by all. Their unlikely friendship challenges the long-held beliefs of their community.
On the rugged isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been bitter enemies for generations, Hiccup (Mason Thames; The Black Phone, For All Mankind) stands apart. The inventive yet overlooked son of Chief Stoick the Vast (Gerard Butler, reprising his voice role from the animated franchise), Hiccup defies centuries of tradition when he befriends Toothless, a feared Night Fury dragon. Their unlikely bond reveals the true nature of dragons, challenging the very foundations of Viking society.
With Astrid (Nico Parker) and the village blacksmith Gobber (Nick Frost) by his side, Hiccup faces a world divided by fear and misunderstanding. As an ancient threat looms, putting both Vikings and dragons in danger, Hiccup’s bond with Toothless becomes crucial. Together, they must find a way to bring peace, pushing the boundaries of what it means to be a leader and a mate.
Reception and What’s Next
While the live-action version didn’t quite match the critical acclaim of its animated predecessor—scoring 77% compared to the original’s 99% on Rotten Tomatoes—it proved a hit with punters, earning a “Verified Hot” 97% on the Popcornmeter. The buzz around the film has already sparked talk of a sequel, so fans can expect more adventures on the horizon.