The “Dragons” franchise, acclaimed for its $1.6 billion earnings and quality animation, will not have a fourth installment, as director Dean DeBlois aims to pursue new projects. However, a live-action adaptation is set for release on June 11, 2025, directed by DeBlois. Though details on the plot are scarce, the film will likely revisit the original Viking tale of Hiccup and Toothless, featuring returning cast members such as Gerard Butler and newcomers like Mason Thames.
The Dragons franchise, having amassed an impressive $1.6 billion globally, is celebrated as one of the greatest series in animated film history. The rerun of the second episode on October 20 on 6ter reinforces this reputation, especially since the trilogy concluded wonderfully with its third and final movie.
The cinematic journey for Hiccup and Toothless will continue, with a new film anticipated for release on June 11, 2025.
No Fourth Film, But Exciting News
Despite the franchise’s immense success, director Dean DeBlois has reiterated that there will be no fourth installment. He stated, “The franchise is complete. The animated series has ended, and there are currently no plans for another movie. If the studio decides to pursue a new project, I hope they choose a different era with new characters.” This was shared during a 2019 interview.
In 2020, he further emphasized, “I intentionally crafted a fulfilling conclusion to this trilogy to prevent any further entries. I always envisioned this story in three acts. My mission is complete, and I’m proud of these three films. However, I don’t have rights to the franchise—if they ever decide to create new films, I hope they don’t involve my characters. The story is finished.”
DeBlois has made it clear there will be no sequels for his trilogy: “I’ve run out of ideas and yearn for a fresh start, potentially exploring live-action films,” he shared in a 2019 discussion.
Transition to Live-Action
DeBlois mentioned his interest in live-action projects, and it seems this call has materialized. In February 2023, Deadline reported that a new film based on Dragons was under development. This forthcoming movie will mark DeBlois’s debut in live-action directing, having previously worked solely in animation.
He expressed, “For inspiration, I admire films like E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. I envision creating a family-friendly film infused with fantasy or supernatural themes—perhaps in the style of Harry Potter. I also enjoy movies that delve into memories and dreams, with Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind being a favorite.”
It’s clear that DeBlois wishes to explore his original universe while seeking fresh projects. One wonders if he’s on board to ensure that the essence of his saga remains intact.
He explained, “I understand the importance of developing multiple projects simultaneously, as studio interests can shift suddenly. Therefore, I hope to create an animated project alongside several live-action scripts. Above all, I’m aiming to tell an adventurous story set in an immersive world filled with supernatural elements.”
Release Date for the New Dragons
Upon announcement of the new project, DreamWorks and Universal initially scheduled a release date of March 12, 2025. Due to the writers’ and actors’ strike, the release has since been adjusted to June 11.
This raises questions about whether DreamWorks is attempting to emulate Disney with live-action remakes of classic animated favorites—something that may feel peculiar if Shrek follows suit. Or could this be a strategic move to breathe new life into one of their most cherished franchises? Perhaps it’s a combination of both?
What Will the Live-Action Dragons Entail?
Details regarding the storyline for this live-action adaptation remain undisclosed. There has been no confirmation from DreamWorks on whether the plot will stay true to the original tales inspired by Cressida Cowell’s novels.
Like the animated series, it is expected to revisit Viking times, showcasing Hiccup, the son of Stoik, chief of Berk, as he befriends a wounded dragon named Toothless, unveiling the mysteries surrounding these legendary creatures.
It is yet to be seen how this remake will differ from its predecessor and what Toothless will look like, but the new film faces the challenge of living up to one of animated cinema’s finest trilogies.
The studio has hinted at a “new chapter” in the friendship tale between Hiccup and Toothless. This could potentially leave room for the possibility that the remake may serve as a sequel.
Return of the Original Voice Cast?
Gerard Butler is set to reprise his role as the tough Viking chief Stoik, which he voiced in the animated series. Mason Thames, known for his role in The Black Phone, will portray Hiccup, who was originally voiced by Jay Baruchel.