Universal Pictures’ live-action How to Train Your Dragon, directed by Dean DeBlois, has taken India by storm, earning ₹14 crore during its opening weekend. Released on June 13, 2025, across theaters in cities like Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, the film was screened in English, Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu in 2D, 3D, and IMAX formats. Its success stems from its faithful adaptation of the 2010 animated classic, stunning CGI, and nostalgic appeal, resonating with Indian families and fans.
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Box Office Triumph and Audience Reception
The film, starring Mason Thames as Hiccup and Nico Parker as Astrid, grossed ₹4.88 crore on its opening day, making it the biggest opening weekend for the franchise in India and the fifth-largest for any 2025 film. IMAX screenings alone contributed 21% of the revenue, highlighting the allure of premium formats. Social media buzzed with excitement, with posts on X like, “#ToothlessReturns is pure nostalgia!” and fans at Victory Cinema, Bengaluru, praising its “breathtaking 3D” experience. The Times of India rated it 3.5 stars, lauding its “immersive ride” and faithful storytelling.
Faithful Adaptation with Cinematic Flair
Directed by Dean DeBlois, who helmed the animated trilogy, the film stays 95% true to the original, following Hiccup’s bond with Toothless, a Night Fury dragon, to forge peace in Viking-era Berk. The CGI dragons, from Toothless to the Monstrous Nightmare, are hyper-realistic, with landscapes and John Powell’s score amplifying emotional depth. Despite backlash over Nico Parker’s casting as Astrid, DeBlois defended her, stating to Variety, “She nailed the role.” Fans on X agreed, with one writing, “Nico as Astrid is fierce!”
Cultural Resonance in India
The film’s themes of friendship and courage mirror India’s love for epic storytelling, akin to Ollywood’s push for culturally rooted narratives. Its multi-language release and family-friendly appeal drew diverse audiences, with theaters like Anand Cinemas in Marthandam reporting packed 4K RGB Laser 3D shows. Like Jackson Wang’s connection with Indian fans, How to Train Your Dragon taps into universal emotions, making it a cultural hit.
Future of the Franchise
With a sequel slated for June 11, 2027, and merchandise flooding Universal Epic Universe’s Isle of Berk, the franchise’s Indian success signals a bright future. Its ₹197 million global gross underscores its universal appeal, cementing How to Train Your Dragon as a cinematic gem in India.
-By Manoj H