Return to the Viking Saga: Live-Action How to Train Your Dragon 2 Begins Filming in the UK, Set for Release on June 11, 2027

All-Star Cast Returns, Dean DeBlois at the Helm to Continue the Viking Legend

Universal Pictures and DreamWorks’ live-action sequel, How to Train Your Dragon 2, officially began principal photography in the UK on January 26, 2026. The highly anticipated follow-up is once again directed by Dean DeBlois, the creative force behind the original animated trilogy and the first live-action film. It is scheduled for release on June 11, 2027.

Production Upgrades: Filming Locations Span the UK and Iceland

To create an even more magnificent and epic dragon-filled world, production has been significantly upgraded compared to the first film. The primary shooting location is Sky Studios Elstree in London, a change from the first live-action movie, which was filmed at Titanic Studios in Belfast. Sources indicate this move was made partly to avoid the unpredictable weather in Northern Ireland that previously caused production delays.

In addition to studio work in London, the crew will travel to Iceland, Northern Ireland, and the Scottish Highlands to capture the dramatic, Viking-esque natural landscapes, aiming to deliver a more visually stunning experience for audiences.

All-Star Cast Returns, Academy Award Winner Cate Blanchett Joins

Fan-favorite cast members have all returned. Mason Thames reprises his role as the young Viking Hiccup, with Nico Parker returning as Astrid. Gerard Butler and Nick Frost are also confirmed to be back, portraying Hiccup’s father Stoick and blacksmith Gobber, respectively.

In an exciting development, Academy Award winner Cate Blanchett has confirmed her involvement, reprising her role from the animated trilogy as Hiccup’s mother, Valka, in this live-action sequel. Her return undoubtedly adds significant appeal and emotional depth to the film.

New additions to the cast include Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, who will play the primary antagonist, Drago, and actor Tristan Dunster, who will portray the character Eret, Son of Eret—a role making its live-action debut in this sequel. In the 2014 animated film, this character was originally voiced by Game of Thrones star Kit Harington.

Story Continues: A New Adventure Five Years Later

The story of How to Train Your Dragon 2 is set five years after the events of the first live-action film. Young Hiccup has successfully bridged the ancient enmity between Vikings and dragons, forging a deep friendship with his Night Fury, Toothless. However, new threats are emerging, setting the stage for an epic adventure of growth, responsibility, and family. As the latest chapter in the five-film franchise, this sequel will continue to explore this fantastical Viking world, delivering even greater narrative scope and emotional resonance.

About the First Live-Action Film: The How to Train Your Dragon live-action series is a reimagining of DreamWorks’ classic 2010 animated film and its subsequent trilogy, based on Cressida Cowell’s beloved children’s book series. The first live-action film was released on June 13, 2025, setting the stage for this sequel.

How to Train Your Dragon 2 is produced by Universal Pictures and is scheduled to hit theaters worldwide on June 11, 2027.