Fifteen years after the release of the classic animated film, the live-action remake of How to Train Your Dragon is finally here! Before the film’s highly anticipated release, we chatted with Mason Thames and Nico Parker, who star as Hiccup and Astrid, to learn more about walking on set for the first time and their favorite behind-the-scenes moments.
The live-action film with CGI-animated dragons is set on the rugged isle of Berk as an ancient threat endangers both Vikings and dragons alike. Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, the son of Chief Stoick the Vast, defies centuries of traditional dragon-fighting practices when he befriends Toothless. Their unlikely bond challenges the very foundation of Viking society.
The star studded cast also includes Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, Nick Frost, Bronwyn James, and more. And even better, the already announced sequel is set to be released in 2027.
Mason Thames rose to stardom while playing Finney Blake in the horror film The Black Phone, alongside Ethan Hawke. Nico made her film debut in the fantasy film Dumbo and played Sarah Miller in the first season of The Last of Us.
While somewhat dangerous, Toothless is also incredibly adorable and is even cooler to see in the live-action remake, as Toothless and Hiccup become ride-or-die besties. Mason said the Night Fury dragon is just the cutest thing ever. You can put any of your own pets in Toothless’ shoes just to see how far your companion would go for a best friend.
Mason: “Toothless is the cutest thing ever.”
While we can’t wait to learn even more behind-the-scenes secrets on set, it was revealed that Nico does her own stunts and her favorite thing was the white chocolate chip cookies at Krafty, and now all we can think about is this recipe reveal!
Nico: “I became obsessed with these white chocolate chip cookies [at Krafty].”
Going from an animated to live-action film is a massive tech and design jump, and both Mason and Nico agreed that the Isle of Berk set was so incredibly realistic and magical. The cast could walk on to set and feel like they were actually in Berk, because they were!
Mason: “It felt like the world stepped out of the animated movie.”
Nico: “What we saw then was more than I could have dreamed of having as a set, it was really special.”
Thank you, Mason and Nico, for chatting with Young Entertainment! Make sure to follow their Instagram’s at @masonthames and @nicoparker. Watch the rest of the interview to see the amazing chemistry the two actors have. While you’re there, be sure to like and subscribe to our channel for the latest news in young entertainment.
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