Universal Pictures, in a collaboration with the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO), has just dropped big news: CinemaCon 2025 will host the worldwide debut of the highly anticipated live-action reimagining of “How to Train Your Dragon!”
CinemaCon to host “How to Train Your Dragon” Live-Action World Premiere two months before release
On Wednesday, April 2nd, the legendary Colosseum at Caesars Palace transforms into Berk. Berk is welcoming the global exhibition community to witness this cinematic spectacle over two months before its June 13th theatrical release!
Hosted by NATO, CinemaCon is the ultimate gathering for the global theatrical exhibition community. The event is happening March 31st – April 3rd at Caesars Palace. This year, Universal Pictures is setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. They are showcasing the power of cinema and the magic of “How to Train Your Dragon.”
From the visionary mind of Dean DeBlois, the mastermind behind the original animated trilogy, comes a live-action reimagining that will redefine the epic saga. Witness Mason Thames as Hiccup, Gerard Butler reprising his iconic voice role as Stoick the Vast, and Nico Parker as the fierce Astrid, as they navigate the treacherous world of Berk. Nick Frost brings his comedic charm to Gobber. Frost adds to the stellar cast including Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, and many more!
High expections for this summer film
Mitch Neuhauser, Managing Director of CinemaCon, expressed excitement that Universal Pictures will present a major summer film to global cinema exhibitors. He predicts the film will be a worldwide hit and emphasizes the value of seeing it in theaters, with the global exhibition community ready to promote it.
“We are thrilled that Universal Pictures has chosen to showcase this summer blockbuster for the global exhibition community. This movie promises to be a hit with movie fans of all ages all around the world. Seeing it in your local theatre will be an amazing experience, and the global exhibition community is excited to help promote it in the days ahead.”
The pandemic took a toll on the movie theater industry, forcing closures and accelerating the shift to streaming. Family-friendly films like this one could help in the effort to lure audiences away from their couches. With rising costs of theater tickets and concessions, and inflation hitting many American homes in numerous ways. Recently families are more reserved in deciding which films they’ll spend money on to see in person. It will be interesting to see if this film will be one of the few summer blockbusters that lures audiences back.
Jim Orr, President of Domestic Theatrical Distribution at Universal Pictures, praises the live-action. Stating that “How to Train Your Dragon” is a perfect blend of action, visuals, and emotional storytelling. He even calls it the “ultimate theatrical experience.” Stating director Dean DeBlois has created a stunning reimagining that honors the animated original while reaching new heights. As well as expressing excitement to share it with theater partners who will be crucial in its global release.
“How to Train Your Dragon delivers the perfect blend of blockbuster action, breathtaking visuals and emotional storytelling that defines the ultimate theatrical experience. Dean DeBlois has created a stunning live-action reimagining of his film, which honors his beloved animated classic while soaring to spectacular new heights. We’re thrilled to share this film with our exhibition partners first, as they will be instrumental in bringing this extraordinary adventure to audiences worldwide this summer.
