DreamWorks' live-actionHow to Train Your Dragonremake is packed with memorable moments, and while many changes are subtle, one of the most effective is the new version of Astrid. Astrid was already a fan favorite in the animated trilogy, butthe 2025 remake takes her character further, expanding her role and impact on the story. Written and directed by Dean DeBlois, who also co-directed the original films alongside Chris Sanders, theHow to Train Your Dragonremake is a faithful adaptationthatexpands on the original story while introducing new elements and details.
Astrid’s expanded role proves this remake is committed to developing characters in ways the original films didn’t always have the chance to do. WithHow to Train Your Dragonopening to strong reviews, havingcritics and audiences praising its visual style and loyalty to the source material,the movie has been able to bring out even more emotional complexity and strength in its characters. While some viewers were skeptical about revisiting such a beloved story,Astrid’s improved arc might be the best argument for why the remake deserves to exist.
How To Train Your Dragon’s Remake Changes Astrid For The Better
Her Character Gets A Much-Needed Expansion
Inthe animatedHow to Train Your Dragon, Astrid was always confident, loyal, and brave, but often remained second to Hiccup once he entered dragon training. Hiccup was always teased by his peers, and while Astrid doesn’t pick on him as much, she’s confused and frustrated by his sudden rise in popularity. However, in the original film, that frustration is not fully explored. In the 2025 remake,Astrid is finally given an arc that, while it remains true to her original story, expands her motivationsto become Chief and gives more depth to her frustration with Hiccup.
Astrid has evolved beyond a mere sidekick or love interest;she has her own goals, doubts, and inner conflicts that make her a more rounded character. The live-action emphasizes her leadership potential from the start and clarifies her dislike for Hiccup, which stems from his indifference toward Berk’s traditions and the privilege he unintentionally enjoys as the Chief’s son.The film illustrates Astrid’s lifelong dedication to being Chiefand highlights her internal struggle about loyalty to Berk’s old ways versus the truth about dragons. It’s a smarter take on Astrid that makes her a more dynamic female lead, serving as a stronger mirror of Hiccup and Berk’s growth.
Nico Parker Brings The Best Out Of Astrid In How To Train Your Dragon
Her Performance Is One Of The Highlights Of The Film
When Nico Parker was first cast, there was some backlash online, with a vocal minority criticizing the decision due toher race being different from the animated Astrid. These responses mirrored common patterns seen when legacy characters are reimagined, often missing the point of what truly defines them. Now,Parker’s performance is silencing skeptics. She brings an authentic mix of vulnerability, grit, and intelligence that redefines Astrid for a new generation.The star took America Ferrera’s Astrid and made the character her ownwhile honoring the traits that made audiences love the Viking in the first place.
What makes Parker’s Astrid so successful is the emotional range she brings to the role. She doesn’t just play a tough Viking warrior; she peels back her layers, revealing a teen girl focused on protecting and leading her people while she questions the culture she grew up with.Her chemistry with Mason Thames' Hiccup is strong, making for a fun and interesting dynamic between them. However, her solo moments shine just as brightly.Parker’s performance makes Astrid feel like a protagonist rather than a supporting character, which perhaps signals an even bigger role inHow to Train Your Dragon 2.
How To Train Your Dragon’s Astrid Changes Show Why The Remake Was Necessary
It Allows For A Deeper Look Into Berk And Its Characters
The remake’sAstrid serves as a window into Berk’s culture, beliefs, and overall tension within the village. Her character gives audiences a clearer sense of what’s at stake and how much pressure the youth of Berk face. Through her eyes, viewers experience the effects of tradition, the risk of growth, and the importance of personal courage.By expanding her role, the film successfully reintroduces Berk to a more lived-in world.Parker’s casting is not only justified, but it’s also a triumphthat helps anchor the film’s modern take on the beloved characters.
Astrid was not the only character who got an expansion, as Snoutlout, one of Hiccup’s bullies in the original films, was also awarded a deeper look into his character. The remake makes Snoutlout a direct contrast to Hiccup, where both boys are trying desperately to earn their fathers' respect. Stoick and Hiccup’s relationship is also expanded, showing the disconnect between them, and makingthe ending ofHow to Train Your Dragoneven more emotional. If the sequel holds the momentum and standard, theHow to Train Your Dragonremakes might become one of the most successful and well-received live-action reimaginings as of late.
