The live-action remake of "How to Train Your Dragon" has soared to impressive heights, grossing over $350 million worldwide in just its second week, despite facing stiff competition from other major releases. This feat underscores the enduring popularity of the franchise and the effectiveness of its adaptation for a new generation.
The film's success is particularly notable considering the strong contenders it faced at the box office. Danny Boyle's "28 Years Later," the highly anticipated third installment in the zombie horror series, made a significant impact, earning $30 million in its opening weekend and marking the director's best premiere to date. Additionally, Pixar's latest offering, "Elio," entered the fray, though it unfortunately stumbled with the lowest opening in the studio's history, taking in only $21 million. "Lilo & Stitch" also held strong in its fifth week. Despite these challenges, "How to Train Your Dragon" maintained its stronghold, proving its broad appeal and effective marketing.
Domestically, "How to Train Your Dragon" led the box office for the second consecutive week, bringing in $37 million and increasing its total domestic gross to $160.4 million. This performance places it among the top June releases of all time, surpassing "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban" in the same period. Globally, the film has amassed $358.2 million, exceeding the totals of other major releases at similar points in their runs, including "Sonic the Hedgehog 3," "How to Train Your Dragon 3" (2019), and "The Little Mermaid" (2023). According to Box Office Pro, the film's second-weekend performance saw a 56% drop from its debut, but it is still considered a winner.
Several factors contributed to the film's impressive box office performance. The existing fanbase of the "How to Train Your Dragon" franchise, built over years through animated films, television series, toys, and theme park attractions, provided a solid foundation. The decision to remake the original 2010 film, directed by Dean DeBlois, tapped into nostalgia while offering a fresh perspective with live-action elements. The casting of Mason Thames and Gerard Butler, who reprised his role as Stoick the Vast, added to the film's appeal. Furthermore, Universal and DreamWorks' control over IMAX screens during its first weeks certainly benefited the film.
The film's success also reflects a broader trend of successful live-action remakes of animated classics. While some remakes have faced criticism, "How to Train Your Dragon" has resonated with both critics and audiences. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts a "certified fresh" rating of 77% from critics and an impressive 98% audience score. This positive reception has undoubtedly contributed to strong word-of-mouth and repeat viewings.
Looking ahead, "How to Train Your Dragon" is poised to continue its successful run. With a budget of $150 million, the film is well on its way to profitability and is expected to surpass the $375 million mark soon. A sequel is already in development, signaling the studio's confidence in the franchise's continued success. The film's ability to outperform established franchises and new releases alike demonstrates the enduring power of a well-executed remake that captures the hearts of audiences worldwide.
