The Universal live-action adaptation of the beloved animated franchise soared to a strong $83.7 million debut in North American theaters, according to Comscore estimates Sunday.

How to Train Your Dragon got off to a terrific start at the box office, so let's break down everything this live-action remake of an animated classic did right.

Jeremy Fuster, Film Reporter, joined TheWrap in 2016 and covers box office and labor news. He received a National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Award for his coverage of the 2023 WGA Strike and was nominated by the LA Press Club as Best Entertainment Journalist. He can be reached at [email protected].

Universal Pictures' live-action film 'How to Train Your Dragon' topped the box office this weekend with $83.7 million, as family-friendly fare continues to draw audiences to theaters.

Universal's live-action remake of 'How to Train Your Dragon' had the fourth-biggest opening day of 2025, while A24's 'Materialists' is headed for third.

As Hiccup, the 17-year-old actor is shouldering the weight of Universal’s new live-action franchise — and living out his childhood fantasy.

The live-action update of the popular animated film grossed $8.6 million in regular Thursday shows, and another $2.5 million from early access Wednesday screenings.

Universal's 'How to Train Your Dragon' is opening to $82.5M, the best in the franchise, while A24's 'Materialists' is looking at $11M+.