"How to Train Your Dragon" Lands in Cyprus: Where to Catch the New Film
The beloved animated franchise takes flight in live-action, featuring Gerard Butler and a new cast in a visually spectacular reimagining.
The highly anticipated live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon premieres on June 12 in cinemas across Cyprus, including K. Cineplex, Premier Cinemas at The Mall of Nicosia, K. Cineplex & Premier Cinemas Limassol, and K. Cineplex Larnaca.
On the rugged island of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have been sworn enemies for generations, young Hiccup stands out. The inventive but overlooked son of the mighty chieftain Stoick defies ancient traditions when he befriends Toothless, a fearsome Night Fury dragon.
Their unlikely bond unveils the true nature of dragons and challenges the very foundations of Viking society. Alongside the fierce and determined Astrid and the quirky village blacksmith Gobber, Hiccup faces a world torn apart by fear and misconceptions.
As an ancient threat emerges, endangering both dragons and Vikings, Hiccup and Toothless must forge a new path toward peace—one that redefines heroism and leadership across both species.
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This is a live-action remake of the first How to Train Your Dragon film, with Gerard Butler reprising his original role in a live setting after voicing the character in the animated trilogy.
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It marks DreamWorks Animation’s first-ever live-action project and its debut remake.
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Announced in 2023 by distributor Universal Pictures, the remake features the creative involvement of original trilogy director Dean DeBlois, who for the first time directs a non-animated feature (excluding a documentary). DeBlois signed on with the condition of having full creative control.
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Filming Locations: Northern Ireland (mainly), Los Angeles, Iceland, and the Faroe Islands. The production experienced delays due to major strikes by actors and writers.
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Several scenes are frame-by-frame recreations of iconic moments from the original, especially Hiccup’s first meeting with Toothless.
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Cast Diversity: Mason Thames is the only American in a cast otherwise comprised of British, Irish, and New Zealand actors.
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Visual Effects: While digital effects are heavily used—especially for dragon visuals—the film incorporates significant practical effects. Visual work is handled by Framestore and DNEG.
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The film is specially formatted for IMAX and is also released in RealD 3D.
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A preview at CinemaCon 2025 showcased both the live-action remake and early plans for a sequel.