Cast and Crew of How to Train Your Dragon

How to Train Your Dragon

In the animated adventure film "How to Train Your Dragon," audiences are introduced to Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a young Viking played by Jay Baruchel. As the son of Stoick the Vast, the formidable leader of their clan, Hiccup stands at a crossroads between childhood and adulthood. The tradition in his village dictates that, in order to earn his place among the fierce warriors of his community, he must kill a dragon, a rite of passage that all young Vikings are expected to complete. However, Hiccup is not like the other Vikings; he is imaginative, timid, and somewhat awkward, often feeling overshadowed by the expectations placed upon him by his father and peers. As he grapples with this daunting challenge, the pressure to conform to the Viking ideal weighs heavily on him.

During a fateful encounter, Hiccup manages to capture a Night Fury, the most feared dragon of all. Instead of following through with the gruesome task of dispatching the creature, he finds himself mesmerized by its beauty and grace. Naming the dragon Toothless due to his absent teeth, Hiccup begins to explore a groundbreaking connection that defies the longstanding animosity between Vikings and dragons. This decision marks a significant turning point in Hiccup's life, prompting him to question the beliefs ingrained in him by his culture and the expectations tied to his heritage. Hiccup and Toothless forge a profound bond, discovering that they can learn from each other and share experiences, which leads to thrilling adventures and unforeseen challenges that will test both their courage and their friendship.

As the story unfolds, Stoick, voiced by Gerard Butler, struggles to understand his son’s unconventional path. His fear for Hiccup's safety and his deep-rooted belief in dragon hostility clash with Hiccup's newfound understanding of these creatures as sentient beings deserving respect and compassion. This dynamic not only drives the narrative forward but also allows for a deeper exploration of themes like acceptance, bravery, and the importance of viewing the world through different perspectives. Ultimately, "How to Train Your Dragon" transcends the typical hero's journey, portraying a heartwarming tale about the power of empathy and friendship that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Main Cast of How to Train Your Dragon

Jay Baruchel as Hiccup (voice)

Jay Baruchel

Hiccup (voice)
Jay Baruchel's voice performance as Hiccup in "How to Train Your Dragon" is nothing short of remarkable, as he breathes life into the character with a nuanced blend of vulnerability, wit, and an endearing earnestness. From the moment Hiccup begins narrating his journey, Baruchel's distinct vocal inflections and rhythm capture the essence of an unconventional Viking teenager who is more brains than brawn. His evolution from a misfit to a confident dragon rider is portrayed with a delicate touch, allowing audiences to fully invest in Hiccup's emotional growth. Baruchel's delivery of Hiccup's humorous asides and heartfelt moments underscores the film's themes of friendship, acceptance, and the challenge of forging one's own path. His chemistry with the other voice actors, particularly with Gerard Butler who voices his father Stoick the Vast, adds a layer of depth to the father-son dynamic that is central to the narrative. Baruchel's performance resonates with viewers of all ages, making Hiccup an iconic and beloved character in animated film history.
Gerard Butler as Stoick (voice)

Gerard Butler

Stoick (voice)
Gerard Butler delivered a commanding and emotionally resonant performance as Stoick the Vast in the animated film "How to Train Your Dragon." His deep, sonorous voice breathed life into the character, imbuing Stoick with a sense of gravitas and authority befitting the chieftain of the Viking tribe in Berk. Butler brilliantly balanced Stoick's tough exterior and fierce loyalty to his people with a underlying warmth and vulnerability, particularly in his interactions with his son, Hiccup. His performance was pivotal in portraying the internal conflict of a leader whose traditions are challenged and the eventual softening of his character as he learns to embrace change and understanding. Butler's vocal work was instrumental in making Stoick a memorable and beloved character, whose growth mirrors the film's overarching themes of acceptance and the bonds that bring people—or in this case, Vikings and dragons—together.

Crew of How to Train Your Dragon

Full backstage crew list →