Dominic McLaughlin in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
Preview:
The first official look at the new ‘Harry Potter’ series is online.
Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout are Harry, Ron and Hermione.
‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’ will arrive at Christmas.
With the show having been in development for a while now, HBO has taken the UK launch of its streaming service to offer up the first images from the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series, which not-so-shockingly is calling its first season ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’, including looks at the likes of three leads Harry, Ron and Hermione, played by Dominic McLaughlin, Arabella Stanton and Alastair Stout.
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The cast also includes Nick Frost (Hagrid), John Lithgow (Dumbledore), Janet McTeer (McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (Snape) and Warwick Davis (who is the one carryover from the movie cast, to play Professor Flitwick). And the first teaser has also arrived –– find that at the bottom of the page.
John Lithgow in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.
From the sounds of it, the show won’t venture too far from the books, just taking the expanded running time a TV series allows to adapt more from them.
Here’s the official logline: “There is nothing special about Harry Potter – at least that’s what his Aunt Petunia always says. On his 11th birthday, a letter of admittance to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry opens up a hidden world for Harry: one of fun, friendship and magic. But with this new adventure comes great risk as Harry is forced to face a dangerous enemy from his past…”
When will the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series be on screens?
Nick Frost in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
HBO Max has confirmed a Christmas 2026 release for this initial season.
(L to R) Alastair Stout, Dominic McLaughlin and Arabella Stanton in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:
Hogwarts Express in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.Paapa Essiedu in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.Janet McTeer in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.Lox Pratt in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Lara Cornell/HBO.(L to R) Daniel Rigby and Bel Powley in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.Amos Kitson in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.Dominic McLaughlin in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.Arabella Stanton in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.Alastair Stout in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.Dominic McLaughlin in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone’. Photo: Aidan Monaghan/HBO.
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Moviefone recently had the pleasure of speaking with Dafne Keen about her work on ‘Whistle’, her first reaction to the screenplay and the movie’s extensive gore, falling in love with the horror genre, her character’s traumatic past, working with actors Sophie Nélisse and Nick Frost, and director Corin Hardy’s vision for the project.
Dafne Keen as “Chrys Willet” in the horror film, ‘Whistle’, an IFC and Shudder release. Photo courtesy of IFC and Shudder.
Moviefone: To begin with, this is a super gory and violent movie. What was your first reaction to the screenplay and did the gore read on the page?
Dafne Keen: Absolutely. The way Owen Egerton wrote it was so descriptive and wonderful. That was something that really sold me on it because I’d never done horror and I was very scared of horror before I did this film. But I really loved how beautiful the deaths were. They were very gory, but they were described in a poetic and stunning way. Then the way that Corin brought it to life was so wonderful, because Corin comes from an art background, so he was very much focused on making it as practical as possible. I really enjoyed the whole gore aspect of it, even though notoriously, according to all my friends and my family, everyone knows that I’ve never been a horror girl, but I was loving it.
Director Corin Hardy on the set of ‘Whistle’. Courtesy of Michael Gibson. An Independent Film Company and Shudder Release.
MF: Since you were not a fan of the genre before you made the movie, are you now, and was it fun making a horror movie?
DK: Yeah, it was so fun. I had the best time. I’m now a huge fan of horror. I would like to credit a lot of my love for horror to this film. A lot of it to one of the actors in it, who’s a good friend of mine in Percy Hynes White, who heard that I didn’t like horror and he was like, “We’re going to give you a horror crash course”. So, we had a little movie night and we watched ‘The Exorcist’ and he gave me a whole list. He was like, “These are the gold standards of horror films, and you need to watch them.” Since then, I’m now a huge horror fan. But the reason why I really loved the project was because it felt so character driven, and I loved Ellie and Chrys’ relationship. I thought it was such a beautiful love story and it really stuck out to me. I think it so important to write queer stories that aren’t focused on the queerness of it. It just felt like it was a love story and they happened to be queer. But they could have been straight, and it would have been the same story. There was something so beautiful about the queer joy in it and Chrys is such a beautiful character. I thought that all the characters were so defined and special that I read the script and it was a no brainer.
Dafne Keen as “Chrys Willet” in the horror film, ‘Whistle’, an IFC and Shudder release. Photo courtesy of IFC and Shudder.
MF: Can you talk about the trauma that Chrys is dealing with at the beginning of the movie and how it literally haunts her throughout the film?
DK: I think that is a great question because that’s a huge part of who Chrys is and how we meet Chrys. I think at the beginning when we find her, she thinks that that history is detrimental to her. She’s kind of a worse person for it, like she’s worse for wear. I think falling in love with Ellie makes her realize that that’s made her grow and that that’s made her into so much more of a wonderful and compassionate person because of it. I think that’s so important. It was so interesting to dive into it and I had so many conversations with Corin about what that would look like and how did we want to portray Chrys’ drug addiction and her grief in a way that wouldn’t feel exploitative or overt. I’m a big fan of not telling the audience things and just showing them. I think it was important to me to not be so like, “She’s ruined because of it.” But instead, be like, “There is hope and you can come out of it.” As someone who lost someone very important to them quite young, I know that it’s very tough and it’s very grueling, but you do come out of it, and I feel so much better. I think death really gives you a perspective on life in a way and those first few years are tough, but eventually you find an expression for all that love that you had for that person. I think what’s so beautiful about this film is that Chrys discovers that love and that pain that she’s feeling inside her hasn’t just gone to waste because she’s lost her father, she can still feel love for someone and still have that love for her father and not have it be detrimental to her as a person, you don’t have to be self-destructive. That was an important thing for me to tell. Owen wrote it in such a beautiful way, and filming all that stuff with Sophie was beautiful and cathartic and wonderful.
(L to R) Sophie Nélisse and Dafne Keen in the horror film, ‘Whistle’, an IFC and Shudder release. Photo courtesy of IFC and Shudder.
MF: What was it like working with Sophie Nélisse as a scene partner to make the relationship between Ellie and Chrys seem authentic on screen?
DK: It was the best. Sophie and I are now good friends, I’d say she’s one of my closest friends. She’s just so wonderful and it was honestly love at first sight. We were in this terrifying hotel that I’m convinced was haunted. We’d gotten each other’s numbers somehow and she’d messaged me being like, “Hey, I’m at the hotel. I’m terrified. Do you mind sleeping over?” I was like, thank God because I’d just acquired a knife to put under my pillow as I too, was terrified. So, we slept over and then basically we lived with each other. Like I low-key moved into her hotel room and she was my best friend throughout the whole process. I remember the next day we had a rehearsal with Corin and we went in there and we were rehearsing, but Sophia and I were just laughing back and forth. Corin was like, “We don’t need to be here. You guys already have all this chemistry. There’s no need to be doing this.” The whole way through we were kind of in love with each other and it was so easy. We had to do a kissing scene and we were like, “Can’t wait.” We had the best time on it. It was so fun.
Nick Frost in ‘Whistle’, an IFC and Shudder release. Photo courtesy of IFC and Shudder.
MF: You have a few scenes with Nick Frost. What was it like working with him and is he cracking jokes in between takes?
DK: Yes, he’s so funny. We were genuinely all dying of laughter. I remember specifically Ali Skovbye, who plays Grace, and I kept looking at each other and breaking because the way he would deliver his lines was so funny and in between takes, he was just cracking jokes. I was literally phoning my dad every five minutes because, obviously I’m British and my dad’s British, and I’m like, “Dad, you don’t understand, I’m working with Nick Frost.” But it was so cool and he’s lovely and he’s kind of normal and humble. He’s just chill and charming, and so good at what he does. He’s one of those people that you get on set and you’re like, “Wow, you’re talented. You’re just good at what you do.” Do you know what I mean? He’s such a solid scene partner and we had a fun time.
Director Corin Hardy and Dafne Keen on the set of ‘Whistle’. Courtesy of Michael Gibson. An Independent Film Company and Shudder Release.
MF: Finally, what was it like collaborating on set with director Corin Hardy and watching him execute his vision for this project?
DK: He’s the best. Corin’s so passionate, which is special and kind of rare. He’s so detail oriented. He’s just so wonderful and he’s got a fascinating brain. I always loved going up to him when we were doing something and be like, “Hey, what do you think about this?” Because he was so passionate about the project that he’d have this whole thing thought through. I’d be like, “Oh, that makes complete sense.” He was so kind. He was so loving to all of us, and he was just a great leader. He tried to make us all feel comfortable and happy and to make this experience, which could have been intense and kind of grueling, as enjoyable for all of us as possible. So, he was just so perfect and he’s so good at what he does. He’s just so talented.
‘Whistle’ opens in theaters on February 6th.
What is the plot of ‘Whistle’?
A group of high school misfits inadvertently come across an ancient Aztec death whistle. Blowing it summons their future deaths to hunt them down. As the body count increases, they investigate the artifact’s history in hopes of halting the sequence of events they have set into motion.
Cate Blanchett will play Viking warrior Valka in ‘How to Train Your Dragon 2.’
She’s reprising her role from the animated adventures.
Dean DeBlois is once more writing and directing.
Cate Blanchett is ready to hang with dragons once more.
The actor is becoming the second person from the animated ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ franchise to reprise their voice role in live-action, following Gerard Butler.
Blanchett will join Butler and the rest in ‘How to Train Your Dragon 2,’ which is following last year’s first adaptation.
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Franchise overseer Dean DeBlois, who wrote and directed that first live-action entry is back pulling double duty again for this new one.
Mason Thames (right) as Hiccup with his Night Fury dragon, Toothless, in Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
Based, like the animated movies, on Cressida Cowell’s books, the stories follow young Viking Hiccup (Mason Thames), who goes against his society’s dragon-battling ways when he befriends one called Toothless.
The second instalment will continue Hiccup’s adventures. Blanchett’s Valka is the long-lost mother of Hiccup, and wife of Viking leader Stoick the Vast (Butler, who also appeared in the first live-action movie).
She has a few movies either in development or headed our way, including new drama ‘Sweetsick’ and sci-fi comedy ‘Alpha Gang.’ And Blanchett is a producer on a comedy called ‘Peaches.’
When will ‘How to Train Your Dragon 2’ be in theaters?
Universal Pictures has already scheduled the sequel for a June 11, 2027 release date.
Which isn’t all that surprising, given that the first live-action movie earned $636 million worldwide.
Stoick (Gerard Butler) and Hiccup (Mason Thames) in Universal Pictures’ live- action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
Other Movies Similar to ‘How to Train Your Dragon:’
(L to R) 2025’s ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ director Dean DeBlois, and actors Nico Parker and Mason Thames.
Moviefone recently had the pleasure of traveling to Oslo, Norway, home of the Vikings, to speak exclusively with writer and director Dean DeBlois, as well as young actors Mason Thames and Nico Parker about their work on 2025’s ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ and the home entertainment release.
DeBlois discussed adapting his own animated movie into live action, the design of the dragons, and deleted scenes, while Thames and Parker talked about joining the beloved franchise, their experience working with DeBlois and Gerard Butler, and the home release’s gag reel.
You can read our full interviews below or click on the video player above to watch our interviews.
(from left) Writer-Director Dean DeBlois (left), Gabriel Howell (center) and Nico Parker (right) on the set of Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
Moviefone: To begin with, Dean, can you talk about the challenges of remaking a live action version of your own animated movie?
Dean DeBlois: Well, I think the biggest challenge is I’m very close to it, so the benefit I think, is the distance. It was 15 years ago. I tend never to watch movies that I’ve worked on again. By the time we get through the whole process of mixing and coloring it and putting it out in the world, I’m kind of done. So, I had the benefit of sense memory of the movie and then revisiting the script and looking for opportunities where we could go deeper with character relationships or with mythology and leaning into even more so into the aesthetic of live action. I think those were all directions that were set in place from the very beginning. So, it meant revisiting old material through a new lens.
MF: Mason, what was it like for you to join this franchise and bring the character of Hiccup to life in live action?
Mason Thames: I mean, Hiccup is a character that means so much to me. He’s always meant so much to me, so it’s kind of a factor of going into it that, what can I do differently? But also keep the character the same and respect what Jay (Baruchel) did, and Hiccup’s sarcasm, his wittiness, and his kind of awkward loneliness is something that makes him Hiccup. But going into it, me and Dean had a lot of time to talk about new colors that we wanted to explore. So, it was fun.
(from left) Astrid (Nico Parker) and Hiccup (Mason Thames) in Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
MF: Nico, were you a fan of the franchise before making this film and what was it like for you to step into this incredible world Dean has created?
Nico Parker: Yes. Me and Mason both were huge fans of the animated movies. Such a huge fan. I feel like anyone in our age demographic grew up with these movies and so to get to be a part of it is amazing. I remember even just in the audition process meeting Dean and, regardless of getting the part or anything, just meeting Dean was entirely surreal because this is a person who has so much responsibility in something that has been such a huge part of my childhood. There’s something kind of strange about meeting someone that has that kind of weight in your life. But he is just the loveliest and such a brilliant director and a wonderful person. So, to get to be here and doing all of this is kind of still constantly a pinch-me moment, but is very exciting. He’s literally the best person on the planet.
MF: Mason, what was it like for you collaborating with Dean on set?
MT: Dean is my favorite human being ever. He’s like, the sweetest. No, genuinely. You just want to hug him all the time and it’s like, “Oh, personal space, Mason, remember”. But he genuinely is one of the nicest people I’ve ever met and such a fantastic director and filmmaker and artist. I love him so much and I trust him, which is something I value so much. He’s great.
Hiccup (Mason Thames) in Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
MF: Dean, can you talk about the deleted scenes available on the home entertainment release and why those scenes didn’t make the final cut?
DD: The two deleted scenes that we included are “Beach Break”, which is the moment that follows “Test Drive”. So, when Hiccup and Toothless are up flying in the clouds, they become detached and then reattach and fly on intuition. In the animated movie, there’s a scene where they’re now taking a break, just kind of relaxing, cooking some fish, and they get accosted by Terrible Terrors who try to steal the fish. It’s a moment where Hiccup realizes A, dragons aren’t so fireproof on the inside and B, everything we know about them is wrong. We had our live action version of that. We shot it, but we found in the edit, it was in an area of the movie where you could feel the lag, and something was weighing it down. So experimentally, we tried snipping that out thinking we’re kind of telling that story anyway with other scenes and just visually through the narrative, and it survived without it. So, it allowed the pace to increase, but it also just allowed us to move on. Another one is where Astrid almost catches Hiccup red-handed at night in the blacksmith stall with Toothless. Similar, it’s a cute little moment, nice little interaction, but at the end of the day, no real new information was being given to the audience and it helped with the overall pacing to remove it.
MF: Nico, I understand that there will also be a gag reel on the home entertainment release. How much fun was it being on the set, and was it hard not to laugh in between scenes?
NP: It was. I mean, Mason’s so funny, and all the recruits are so funny, and the crew is so funny. I can’t even believe that we made a cohesive movie with how much everyone was laughing. I remember the first time going into the arena. I remember, we turned to Mason and everyone started being like, “Who let you in?” Like belittling him, and I remember they were shooting from behind Mason’s head and the whole time everyone was so funny. Harry (Trevaldwyn) is so funny, Gabe (Howell) is so funny, and Julian (Dennison). Everyone’s so funny. I honestly am surprised that we even had a movie at the end of it because of how much we were breaking.
Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
MF: Dean, can you talk about the design of the dragons, particularly Toothless? Did you want them to look like the animated versions, or more realistic?
DD: Both. We wanted to try to keep the overall silhouettes and coloring and personality traits, certainly from the animated movie, and migrate them into a more naturalistic photoreal world where these creatures feel like they could have been part of our animal kingdom. So, I think in every case, except for Toothless, we were able to go back much more to the animal references, whether it was a crocodile or a tropical bird or a big walrus or so on and so forth. But I think when it came to Toothless, he’s meant to be a black panther meets a salamander, but the more we went toward black panther, the more we were losing his character. So, we found that we had to keep the big eyes and the big mouth and the ear plates as part of his personality.
MF: What was it like working with Gerard Butler again and watching him bring his animated character to life in live action?
DD: Well, I think when Gerard Butler was finally able to join us, because at first, he couldn’t do it due to his own schedule, I had such a breath of relief because I know Gerry well even off camera. So, I think we just have this free-flowing energy between us, and I credit him as co-creator of the character. He brought so much to it, the emotion, the nuance, the arc, even in the animated form. So being able to hand that to him and then let him use all his physicality, everything he can bring to the camera as an actor, embodying Stoick with all this mass and that costume. I knew it was going to be great from the start. He completely delivers. He’s a force of nature.
Gerard Butler in ‘How to Train Your Dragon’. Photo: Universal Pictures.
MF: Finally, Mason, what was your experience like acting opposite Gerard Butler on this movie?
MT: He’s very funny, but what I love about him is, the energy he brings to set. I mean, he is Stoick the Vast, through and through. Nobody else could play that character like him. When he gets on set and he brings this raw energy to each scene, and whenever we’re in that room, it’s Stoick and Hiccup. Running through the scene repeatedly, it really brings something to it. He’s so amazing and such an incredible actor that I love him so much. But in between takes and stuff, we all joke around and he’s a prankster.
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What’s the story of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025)?
As an ancient threat endangers both Vikings and dragons alike on the isle of Berk, the friendship between Hiccup, an inventive Viking, and Toothless, a Night Fury dragon, becomes the key to both species forging a new future together.
Who is in the cast of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025)?
2025’s ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ will be available to own at home beginning July 15th.
Exclusive Bonus Features When Purchasing at Participating Retailers:
Deleted Scenes with Introductions by Writer/Director Dean DeBlois
Gag Reel
Love and Legacy: Making ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ – Go behind the scenes to see how the beloved characters and intricate fantasy world were brought to the live-action medium.
Building Berk – Walk onto the set of ‘How To Train Your Dragon‘ and take in the scale, detail, and heart that went into building Berk.
Dreaming Up the Dragons – A glimpse at the technology, artistry, and imagination involved in bringing life-like dragons to the screen.
Fit for a Viking – Witness the elaborate transformations the cast made to embody the Vikings we see in the film.
Forbidden Friendship with Introductions by Writer/Director Dean DeBlois – Watch Mason Thames perform the full Forbidden Friendship sequence with a puppeteer in the early stages of creating one of the film’s most iconic scenes.
Test Drive with Introduction by Writer/Director Dean DeBlois – Hold on tight as we join Hiccup on his first flight with Toothless, and see the various elements that came together to construct the thrilling scene.
Exploring the Isle of Berk at Epic Universe – Explore ‘How To Train Your Dragon’ – Isle of Berk and discover an island where Vikings and fire-breathing dragons exist together in harmony.
Feature Commentary with Writer/Director Dean DeBlois
Mason Thames (right) as Hiccup with his Night Fury dragon, Toothless, in Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025) receives 7.5 out of 10 stars.
Opening in theaters on June 13th is ‘How to Train Your Dragon,’ which looks to re-imagine the 2010 DreamWorks Animation title as a blend of live-action and CG creatures.
(from left) Astrid (Nico Parker) and Hiccup (Mason Thames) in Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
Disney has turned the conversion of its animated back catalogue into something of a cottage industry, one that has proved profitable for the most part –– a few misses aside, but with a recent mega-hit in ‘Lilo & Stitch.’
So, somewhat naturally, DreamWorks is going the same route, dusting off a classic from its animation arm’s shelf and giving it a coat of live-action (with the usual CG enhancements) paint.
But even with original co-writer and co-director Dean DeBlois aboard to shepherd it, can this re-envisioned trip to the island of Berk succeed to the same degree as the original, 2010 ‘How to Train Your Dragon’?
Script and Direction
(from left) Writer-Director Dean DeBlois (left), Gabriel Howell (center) and Nico Parker (right) on the set of Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
DeBlois, who launched the original franchise alongside Chris Sanders and then effectively took it over for two other movies, is back here in full charge. And, at least for the most part, he’s going the “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” route.
Which in itself is both blessing and curse. This is, once again, the story of inventive young Viking Hiccup (voiced in the original by Jay Baruchel and here played in live form by Mason Thames), who is the son of powerful chief Stoick (Gerard Butler, reprising the role he brought to vocal life). An awkward dreamer, Hiccup wants nothing else but to impress his dad by slaying a dragon, and proving himself in the eyes of the village, which faces endless issues with the marauding reptiles.
Hiccup, largely considered a joke by the other local teams finally manages to down a dragon –– a legendary, mysterious Night Fury, only to discover that things are not exactly what they seem, as the dragons have their reasons for hostility, and the creature he’s encountered soon becomes a friend, one he names Toothless.
Hiccup (Mason Thames) in Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
This new movie really is, for the most part, a copy and paste of that 2010 offering, which is not really a bad thing per se, since the first ‘Dragon’ was an emotional and stylish thrill ride with a fine line in comedy.
Keeping to the template, the 2025 example makes tiny tweaks to the narrative, including a little more for Astrid (here played by Nico Parker, inheriting a role played vocally by America Ferrera) to do and some positive nods towards diversity by re-positioning the Viking society as part of a global effort to combat the perceived dragon threat.
And that could well be a winning formula, though the changes that ‘Lilo & Stitch’ made to its own story, while seemingly controversial to some, haven’t hurt its box office results. There was scope to do something a little fresher with Hiccup and Toothless’ adventure, but for the most part, that option wasn’t taken.
As director, DeBlois does a solid joke, helped by a good cast and the cinematography skills of Bill Pope, who helps the island locales (film in Ireland) and the rocky Dragon’s Nest come to vibrant life.
The effects team is also to be congratulated for bottling what makes Toothless work in animated form in his live-action doppelganger –– though once more by sticking closer to the original.
Cast and Performances
(from left) Hiccup (Mason Thames) and Stoick (Gerard Butler) in Universal Pictures’ live- action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
Butler throws himself into the role of Stoick, and finds more than simple bluster and bravado as he did last time. In his and DeBlois’ hands, he’s a more complicated character, a father dealing with the loss of his wife and hoping against hope that his son will grow into something more like himself.
Thames ably fills the role of that son, and his Hiccup channels plenty of the energy of the cartoon version.
Parker, boosted by the minor changes to her character, is a winning Astrid, finding her own nuance.
Nick Frost is swapped in to replace Craig Ferguson as blacksmith Gobber, and while his role is different than the crankier Ferguson version, it’s perhaps a little less memorable. But still, perfectly watchable.
Everyone else is either an archetype or a tiny supporting role, but there are some good moments from Julian Dennison as dragon fact aficionado Fishlegs, while Gabriel Howell is a solidly arrogant Snotlout.
Final Thoughts
(from left) Hiccup (Mason Thames) and Astrid (Nico Parker) in Universal Pictures’ live-action ‘How to Train Your Dragon’, written and directed by Dean DeBlois. Photo: Universal Pictures.
Was there a compelling reason to remake ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ other than to squeeze more value out of the franchise? Honestly, not really –– this is a true “grab the audience that grew up with the original, and have them bring their own children” play.
But when the result is a solidly enjoyable as this one, we’re quite happy to give it a pass. And try to keep a dry eye when Toothless is in danger!
6iSOkm8wH6ERhulOvteW45
What’s the story of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025)?
As an ancient threat endangers both Vikings and dragons alike on the isle of Berk, the friendship between Hiccup, an inventive Viking, and Toothless, a Night Fury dragon, becomes the key to both species forging a new future together.
Who is in the cast of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (2025)?
‘Harry Potter’ TV series cast (from left to right): John Lithgow (Credit: Jessica Howes), Janet McTeer (Credit: Andrew Crowley), Paapa Essiedu (Credit: Ruth Crafer), Nick Frost (Credit: Lee Malone), Luke Thallon (Credit: Phil Sharp), Paul Whitehouse (Credit: Mike Marsland).
Preview:
HBO is finally confirming the first cast for its ‘Harry Potter’ TV series.
John Lithgow, Janet McTeer and Nick Frost are among them.
The show aims to adapt the books across the next several years.
We’ve spent the last few months hearing about actors scoring roles in HBO’s ambitious, giant planned small screen adaptation of the ‘Harry Potter’ book series.
All through it –– even as John Lithgow in particular openly admitted he was part of the show –– the company has stuck to its “no comment” stance, presumably biding time while schedules are figured out (this thing is quite the time commitment if it works beyond the first season) and contacts are worked through.
Yet now it’s officially official, with parent company Warner Bros. Discovery and HBO releasing word that Lithgow (who is playing headmaster Albus Dumbledore), alongside Janet McTeer (Professor Minerva McGonagall), Paapa Essiedu (as Severus Snape) and Nick Frost (bringing gamekeeper Rubeus Hagrid to screens) will make up part of the series regular cohort.
(L to R) Robbie Coltrane and Daniel Radcliffe in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.’ Photo: Warner Bros.
In addition, the HBO release adds stage actor Luke Thallon (whose main screen credit so far has been a tiny role in 2018’s ‘The Favourite’) and UK comedian and actor Paul Whitehouse (who US audiences might know from ‘The Death of Stalin’ but also has ‘Potter’ form after playing Sir Cadogan in third movie ‘The Prisoner of Azkaban‘), as recurring guest stars.
Thallon has nabbed the role of Professor Quirinus Quirrell, a key part of ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ while Whitehouse is set to play Hogwarts caretaker and grumpy cat owner Argus Filch, who pops up throughout the stories.
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Here’s the official statement on the initial casting from showrunner Francesca Gardiner and main director/executive producer Mark Mylod:
“We are happy to announce the casting of John Lithgow, Janet McTeer, Paapa Essiedu, Nick Frost, Luke Thallon and Paul Whitehouse to play Dumbledore, McGonagall, Snape, Hagrid, Quirrell and Filch. We’re delighted to have such extraordinary talent onboard, and we can’t wait to see them bring these beloved characters to new life.”
We’re still waiting, of course, to find out which three young actors have scored the key roles of Harry, Ron and Hermione following a giant casting call, while other important characters such as Sirius Black and Remus Lupin will presumably be cast once the series reaches their entrances.
(L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.
Here’s the official HBO statement on the show:
“The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”
Gardiner scored the job of showrunner after HBO conducted an extensive search for the right writer/producer. Mylod will direct multiple episodes of the series, having worked on the likes of ‘Succession’ and ‘Game of Thrones.’
The show will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios facility outside London in the UK, where the movies were made.
Who else has been rumored for the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?
Lithgow’s ‘Conclave’ co-star Ralph Fiennes –– who was the villainous Voldemort in four of the seven ‘Potter’ movies –– suggesting someone who could take over that character (even though he’s said he’d be willing to return if asked).
“Cillian is a fantastic actor. That’s a wonderful suggestion. I would be all in favor of Cillian. Yeah.”
We’d add at this point that The Hollywood Reporter’s sources have poured cold water on the idea of Murphy even being considered right now. Which is not to say he isn’t, but that no one wants to talk yet.
The biggest issue for getting more famous –– and therefore busier –– actors involved is the commitment issue; those taking part would likely be contracted for a good 10 years or so. But we can imagine HBO conjuring hefty cash offers to name stars to entice them.
What about the J.K. Rowling issue?
(L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’ Photo: Warner Bros.
‘Potter’ creator and original novelist J.K. Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her negative views on trans people.
This was HBO’s recent statement on the issue:
“Warner Bros. has been working with J.K. Rowling and in the ‘Harry Potter’ business for over 20 years. Her contribution has been invaluable. We are proud to once again tell the story of ‘Harry Potter’ — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”
“J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being. The verbal abuse directed at her is disgusting, it’s appalling. I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But it’s not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It’s just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I’m a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman.”
When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?
HBO CEO Casey Bloys recently said that he expects the show to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, which makes sense given that production isn’t likely to start until later this year.
(L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley and Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter in Warner Bros. Pictures’ fantasy adventure ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2,’ a Warner Bros. Pictures release.
List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:
(Left) Nick Frost in ‘Shaun of the Dead’. Photo: Universal Pictures. (Right) Robbie Coltrane as Rubeus Hagrid in the ‘Harry Potter’ series. Photo: Warner Bros.
Preview:
Nick Frost is close to a deal to play Rubeus Hagrid in the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series.
He’d join John Lithgow, who is confirmed as playing Hogwarts headmaster Dumbledore.
The show aims to adapt the books across the next several years.
Like the giant, moving chess totems in ‘Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone,’ the pieces are falling into place casting-wise for the new HBO TV series adaptation the iconic fantasy novels.
While the only person truly confirmed so far is John Lithgow, who will be Albus Dumbledore, the benevolent yet mysterious headmaster of Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, there is word that both Janet McTeer and Paapa Essiedu are close to their own deals as fellow Hogwarts educators Professor Minerva McGonagall and Professor Severus Snape respectively, now Deadline is reporting that Nick Frost is the latest person in negotiations.
Assuming his own deal lands, Frost will be playing Rubeus Hagrid, the kindly half-giant groundskeeper at Hogwarts who becomes a firm friend for Harry and co.
In the movies, Hagrid was played by Scottish actor Robbie Coltrane, who sadly died in 2022.
HBO, somewhat naturally, is sticking to its blanket refusal to confirm anything:
“We appreciate that such a high-profile series will draw a lot of rumor and speculation. As we make our way through pre-production, we will only confirm details as we finalize deals.”
As for the main trio, the company has conducted a huge search for young actors who will play Harry Potter, Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger, but we’ve yet to learn who has landed the key roles.
Upcoming for Frost? Playing Gobber in the live-action version of ‘How to Train Your Dragon,’ in theaters on June 13th.
What’s the story of the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?
(L to R) Emma Watson as Hermione Granger,Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley in ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2’ (2011). Photo: Warner Bros.
Here’s the official HBO statement on the show:
“The series will be a faithful adaptation of the beloved ‘Harry Potter’ book series by author and executive producer J.K. Rowling. It will feature a new cast to lead a new generation of fandom, full of the fantastic detail and much-loved characters ‘Harry Potter’ fans have loved for over twenty-five years. Each season will bring ‘Harry Potter’ and these incredible adventures to new audiences around the world, while the original, classic and cherished films will remain at the core of the franchise and available to watch globally.”
The series will be written and executive produced by Francesca Gardiner, who scored the job after HBO conducted an extensive search for the right showrunner. Mark Mylod is executive producing and direct multiple episodes of the series for HBO in association with Brontë Film and TV and Warner Bros. Television. The show will be shot at Warner Bros.’ Leavesden Studios facility outside London in the UK, where the movies were made.
Who else has been rumored for the ‘Harry Potter’ TV series?
John Lithgow’s ‘Conclave’ co-star Ralph Fiennes –– who was the villainous Voldemort in four of the seven ‘Potter’ movies –– suggesting someone who could take over that character (even though he’s said he’d be willing to return if asked).
“Cillian is a fantastic actor. That’s a wonderful suggestion. I would be all in favor of Cillian. Yeah.”
We’d add at this point that The Hollywood Reporter’s sources have poured cold water on the idea of Murphy even being considered right now. Which is not to say he isn’t, but that no one wants to talk yet.
The biggest issue for getting more famous –– and therefore busier –– actors involved is the commitment issue; those taking part would likely be contracted for a good 10 years or so. But we can imagine HBO conjuring hefty cash offers to name stars to entice them.
What about the J.K. Rowling issue?
(L to R) Emma Watson and J. K. Rowling at the premiere of ‘Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2.’ Photo: Warner Bros.
‘Potter’ creator and original novelist Rowling is a big consideration here, since A) she has final say on anything adapted from the books and B) is a problematic figure given her negative views on trans people.
This was HBO’s recent statement on the issue:
“Warner Bros. has been working with J.K. Rowling and in the ‘Harry Potter’ business for over 20 years. Her contribution has been invaluable. We are proud to once again tell the story of ‘Harry Potter’ — the heartwarming books that speak to power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. J.K. Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.”
Fiennes (yes, him again) weighed in on the issue when talking to The New York Times in 2022:
“J.K. Rowling has written these great books about empowerment, about young children finding themselves as human beings. It’s about how you become a better, stronger, more morally centered human being. The verbal abuse directed at her is disgusting, it’s appalling. I mean, I can understand a viewpoint that might be angry at what she says about women. But it’s not some obscene, über-right-wing fascist. It’s just a woman saying, ‘I’m a woman and I feel I’m a woman and I want to be able to say that I’m a woman.’ And I understand where she’s coming from. Even though I’m not a woman.”
When will the ‘Harry Potter’ series be on screens?
HBO CEO Casey Bloys recently said that he expects the show to debut in late 2026 or early 2027, which makes sense given that production isn’t likely to start until later this year.
(L to R) Robbie Coltrane and Daniel Radcliffe in ‘Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.’ Photo: Warner Bros.
List of Movies and TV Shows in the ‘Harry Potter’ Franchise:
Launching with its first two episodes on Disney+ Monday, December 2nd, ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ is Lucasfilm’s latest attempt to spark success with a series set in the galaxy that George Lucas created.
Here, ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy director Jon Watts and regular collaborator Christopher Ford have concocted a fun romp that sends a group of young characters on an adventure beyond the borders of their mundane suburban planet.
Getting new ‘Star Wars’ TV series off the ground can be a dicey affair these days –– for every ‘Mandalorian,’ or ‘Andor,’ there’s a ‘Book of Boba Fett’ or ‘The Acolyte,’ which don’t enjoy the same level of impact or fan embrace.
‘Skeleton Crew’ benefits from charting its own course, being recognizably set in the universe of ‘Star Wars’ but also injecting plenty of its own personality. Focusing on younger characters in search of adventure –– one needs a power convertor for something but is far less whiny than the young Luke Skywalker –– brings a much-needed level of charm and infectious, youthful energy.
Creators Jon Watts and Christopher Ford co-wrote all eight episodes, with Myung Joh Wesner assisting on two. And that consistent tone and feel through the show means that ‘Skeleton Crew’ stays entertaining.
The writers have crafted some appealing characters here, and also layered in more than one mystery without coming across as some frustrating puzzle box overpowering everything.
While only the first three episodes were given the press, the show has a style all of its own already, especially given the starting point on a colony world that has its own secrets, but whose appearance puts you in mind of movies such as ‘E.T.’ and, as previously referenced, ‘The Goonies.’
Once things go off-world, the show still maintains a unique vibe, crammed full of pirates and other disreputable types as one of the first stops is a hive of scum and villainy (no, not that one, a space port with its own identity). And the first episode is nimbly edited by Andrew S. Eisen, who brings a sense of energy and helps define the tone of the show early on.
Wim is our initial anchor point, a young man who is struggling with future plans (as in, he’s not sure he has many, aside from a wistful dream of becoming a Jedi) and has an oft-absent father (played by Tunde Adebimpe’s kindly but busy widower) who, along with his nervier best friend Neel, is often getting into scrapes.
Cabot-Conyers brings him to life in entertaining fashion, without ever coming across as being annoying.
Neel, Wim’s best friend, is an appealing, sweet character who resembles a young Max Rebo from ‘Return of the Jedi’ (but is reportedly his own species), and a bundle of nerves who is nevertheless loyal to Wim.
Smith, playing the part with the help of some complex prosthetics and CG, is a superb sidekick and works well as a character.
Armstrong brings spirit and some sly humor to the tomboyish character of Fern, who loves nothing more than racing speeder bikes and pushing back against her officious mother (Kerry Condon).
Fern’s best friend, KB has her own technological secrets, but is also a great addition to the foursome. She’s careful and logical, but willing to go along with their schemes.
Law comes across as a blend of Obi-Wan Kenobi and Han Solo, and while that might sound strange, it actually works here.
He’s also something of a mystery, but never one that is frustrating –– and Law naturally has nuclear levels of charm, clearly reveling in the chance to cut loose and have fun.
Though we can’t talk about many of the characters who show up even in these early episodes because of spoilers, there are some good supporting performances going on here, including some pirates and a wealth of other aliens.
‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ is a worthy addition to the ranks of small-screen stories set in the galaxy far, far away. Watts and collaborators have created a lively, funny and adventurous series, that, while it takes a moment to get going, heads to some entertaining places with characters you’ll root for.
‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’ receives 8.5 out of 10 stars.
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What is the plot of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?
Four children (Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Robert Timothy Smith and Kyriana Kratter) end up on an adventure to make their way home after being lost in the galaxy following a discovery they make on their home planet.
Moviefone recently had the pleasure of sitting down in-person with Jude Law to talk about his work on ‘Skeleton Crew’, joining the ‘Star Wars’ universe, his character, influences he drew from, working with the cast of young actors, and collaborating with show creators Jon Watts and Christopher Ford.
Moviefone: To begin with, what is it like as an actor to join the ‘Star Wars’ universe and did it meet your expectations?
Jude Law: For me, personally, it was stepping into a very familiar world. I was one of the millions of kids in the late ’70s whose lives were changed when they were taken to the cinema by their parents to see the first film. So, I’ve always had a soft spot for it. I played it as a kid running around pew-pewing and collecting the figures and cards. So, it just felt very familiar actually. What really kind of lured me in was the curiosity of how they make these things and the different parameters or rules that apply for it to be or feel like an authentic ‘Star Wars’ show or film. I think, from that perspective, it absolutely lived up to expectation. The on-camera puppetry and animatronics and all of that was wonderful to experience.
MF: Without giving away any spoilers, what can you say about your character and the way you wanted to approach portraying him?
JL: Well, when he was described to me, the character was clearly just full of potential and possibilities. He’s very mysterious, he’s different things to different people with different names, and he keeps you guessing right up to the end. The big question is are his intentions good or bad? That I don’t want to spoil, but the fun aspect was, because of this multifaceted sort of nature, I was able to touch on inspiration from characters throughout the canon. There were times for humor, times for drama, times for menace, and times for heroism. He really does touch on all of those, and it meant that it was very rewarding to play.
MF: To follow up on what you just said, were there particular characters from the ‘Star Wars’ universe that were touchstones for you in creating this character?
JL: Well, I felt like Han (Solo) and Lando (Calrissian) and just the world that those two mixed in was close to what Jod (Na Nawood) is experiencing. So, there’s a little bit of him inspired by them. I’d say that’s about it really. Otherwise, it was a case of taking tones as an inspiration.
MF: Can you talk about working with the kids in the cast, and when you are working with young actors, do you have to adjust your performance at all? What did you learn from watching them work?
JL: I certainly didn’t adjust anything. I mean, they approached it and appeared day one as very professional young actors. They knew what they were doing, and they were confident, and they were very able and well-prepared, and they took it seriously. Then they were kids, so they were also being silly and funny and laughing, making everyone laugh, and they brought a lovely sense of joy. I mean, every day felt kind of fun and special and as it should on a show like this. What was interesting and what we played into was that Jod doesn’t really understand what childhood is or who kids are. So, my role really was to also bring that element to the relationships. He’s kind of aghast that they don’t know how to look after themselves or that they get hungry, or they miss their parents and seemingly can’t fly ships or firing blasters or any of that. I enjoyed that dynamic. I thought there was a lot of humor in it and, if I’m honest, the way I saw it was it is a relationship that evolves over an adventure. So, we didn’t try to build some kind of relationship before we started. We just got on with it. Then, really, you are watching me and them and the characters getting to know each other. As the adventure evolves over months and months and months, we are learning about each other too.
MF: Finally, what was it like working with Jon Watts and Christopher Ford and helping them execute their specific vision for this ‘Star Wars’ project?
JL: Very specific vision. I mean, so much of the heavy lifting had been done in the script work and the concept. It was so clear and executed through the scripts, which were just rich and fun. They were great springboards to then perform from. The same goes for the guys. They were just very approachable. I came at them with so many questions. I have a process where I must understand where my character’s been born and what happened in their past, and they agreed that we could draw all that out so that we knew exactly and in fact, they drew on it. You’ll see towards the end, they kind of drew on some of the ideas we had about his childhood, and throughout they were just incredibly clear and passionate. I mean, it’s not an easy job also setting something up and then stepping back and letting other directors come in, especially directors of the pedigree that they got. But it was a very inclusive experience.
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What is the plot of ‘Star Wars: Skeleton Crew’?
Four children (Ravi Cabot-Conyers, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, Robert Timothy Smith and Kyriana Kratter) end up on an adventure to make their way home after being lost in the galaxy following a discovery they make on their home planet.
Longtime and frequent collaborators Simon Pegg and Nick Frost are reuniting once again for a new Amazon horror comedy series.
The duo will star in “Truth Seekers,” which follows paranormal investigators as they take out haunted churches, underground bunkers, and abandoned hospitals using an array of homemade ghost-detecting gizmos and share their adventures on an online channel.
Their supernatural experiences grow more frequent, terrifying, and even deadly as the pair begin to uncover a conspiracy that could threaten the entire human race
Pegg said, “Nick and I are delighted that ‘Truth Seekers’ has found a home with Amazon Prime Video. We’re looking forward to working closely with them and creating something very special. These are truly exciting times for television, and I can’t think of a better partner than Amazon to accompany us on a return to the smaller screen.”
Frost added, “It’s been nothing but a joyride in seeing this mad tale of paranormal conspiracy unfold in all its understated brilliance.”
The first season of “Truth Seekers” will have eight episodes. Production begins this fall.
