Mason Thames is set to lead the new How to Train Your Dragon film, but his connection to the franchise goes way back. “It was my childhood; I grew up with those films,” shared the 17-year-old actor. He expressed what it means to play Hiccup in this live-action adaptation, saying, “The fact that I can become part of this world and do this is insane for me.”
Thames, who gained recognition from his role in The Black Phone, recalls being captivated since he first watched the original 2010 DreamWorks film. “When I saw the first film as a kid, it had so much wonder and magic. I really loved the dragons, especially the ones that didn’t have teeth—they’re just so cute,” he said.
For him, the story’s emotional depth isn’t just about the dragons; it’s also about Hiccup’s growth. “Hiccup was my hero. There’s so much about him that I relate to,” he remarked. “My journey as an actor reminds me of his. He wanted to fit in with the Vikings, but then realizes he’s different. That’s something I really connected with.”
Securing the role was a pivotal moment for Thames. “It was one of the best moments of my life,” he reflected on the audition process with director Dean DeBlois, who directed the animated trilogy. After a chemistry read in London, he received an unexpected call. “He asked, ‘Would you like to be Hiccup in our movie?’” Thames shared his reaction: “I literally jumped out of my chair and broke the light. It was a very special moment for my family.”
Taking over after Jay Baruchel’s portrayal was daunting for Thames. “Those are big shoes to fill,” he admitted. “Hiccup was a big part of my childhood, and I wanted to honor that, being a fan myself.”
His enthusiasm helped calm his nerves about the film’s transition from animation to live-action. “I worried it wouldn’t feel the same, that it might lack soul,” he confessed. “But meeting Dean showed me his passion for these characters and the world. That love really reflects in the final product.”
The reboot isn’t meant to overshadow the beloved trilogy, which received Oscar nominations for each film, but Thames sees it as a celebration of that legacy. “The original is a masterpiece,” he stated. “It wasn’t about improving; it was about expanding this world and its characters. Bringing it to a new generation in live action was so much fun.”
For this lifelong fan who has now become a star, “This film feels like a love letter to the original.”
How to Train Your Dragon also features Gerard Butler, Nico Parker, and Nick Frost. Thames is currently involved in theatre performances.
