‘How to Train Your Dragon’ is another hit remake at the box office
Dreamworks' live-action 'How to Train Your Dragon' earns $197.8M globally, impressing audiences.

Dreamworks' live-action adaptation of 'How to Train Your Dragon' has made a notable success at the box office with an impressive opening weekend. The film garnered a total of $197.8 million worldwide, with international markets contributing $114 million to that total. This marks a significant achievement as it is Dreamworks' first attempt at a live-action remake. The success is attributed to the established popularity of the 'How to Train Your Dragon' franchise, which has maintained its presence through three popular animated films and multiple TV shows, continuing the adventures of the beloved characters Hiccup and Toothless.
Critics and audiences are responding positively to the new rendition, noting that the film stays true to the spirit of the original while offering a fresh perspective through live-action. The film's marketing has been strategically placed, ensuring to attract the original fans of the animation as well as a new audience demographic. In particular, countries like Mexico, the UK, Ireland, and China have shown strong support, bolstering the film's international success. The familiarity and nostalgia of the franchise play a key role in drawing viewers to theaters globally.
Adding to the film's momentum is the announcement of a sequel planned for June 2027, indicating the confidence Universal has in the franchise's continued profitability. This release aligns the film with other successful remakes this summer, such as Disney's adaptation of 'Lilo & Stitch', which has grossed $858 million globally and continues to perform strongly, possibly heading for the billion-dollar mark.
The broader release landscape sees other big names entering the box office race, with Pixar’s 'Elio' and other franchises like Jurassic World and Superman scheduled for release in the upcoming weeks. These releases round out a summer packed with family-friendly films competing for box office dominance. Universal's management of the 'How to Train Your Dragon' franchise mirrors industry trends, favoring established IPs with dedicated fanbases that ensure initial commercial success and long-term audience interest.
Sources: Gizmodo, Variety