Mason Thames fulfills his childhood dream by landing a role in ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ (Exclusive)
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Mason Thames reveals that portraying Hiccup in the new live-action adaptation of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ holds a special significance for him. The 17-year-old actor shares with PEOPLE that the animated films were a central part of his childhood, making the opportunity to embody Hiccup a dream come true.
Thames expresses his deep connection to the franchise, which revolves around the Isle of Berk, where Vikings and dragons have a long-standing rivalry. He reminisces about the wonder and magic he felt watching the original films as a child and his admiration for the endearing dragon, Toothless.
The protagonist, Hiccup, particularly resonated with Thames, who viewed him as a hero figure while growing up. He relates Hiccup’s journey of self-acceptance and overcoming societal expectations to his personal experiences in pursuing an acting career.
Having made his debut in the horror film ‘The Black Phone’, Thames journeyed into various roles before landing the coveted part of Hiccup. Despite the challenges of acting at a young age, Thames acknowledges the unwavering support of his parents, who celebrated his casting as a significant milestone.
The moment Thames received the news of playing Hiccup remains etched in his memory, describing it as one of the best moments of his life. The excitement and pride felt by his family mirrored his own elation at securing the role in the live-action remake of the beloved franchise.
Embracing the responsibility of portraying a character cherished by fans worldwide, Thames acknowledges the weight of following in the footsteps of Jay Baruchel’s iconic portrayal. He aims to honour the essence of Hiccup while bringing his unique interpretation to the role.
Thames reflects on the nervousness he felt about the live-action adaptation potentially deviating from the beloved original films. However, meeting with director Dean DeBlois reassured him of the genuine passion and dedication invested in maintaining the essence of the story and characters.
In Thames’ view, the new iteration of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ serves as a homage to the original while incorporating fresh perspectives to engage both loyal fans and a new generation of viewers. He commends the collaborative effort in expanding the world and characters of the franchise in a live-action format.
As ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ takes flight in theatres, Thames’ portrayal of Hiccup stands as a testament to his admiration for the classic tale and his commitment to honouring its legacy. The film promises to captivate audiences with its timeless charm and offer a new perspective on a beloved story.
Overall, Mason Thames’ journey from a young fan of ‘How to Train Your Dragon’ to embodying the iconic role of Hiccup reflects a deeply personal and fulfilling experience for the talented actor. His dedication to preserving the essence of the beloved character ensures that fans old and new will find joy in the latest cinematic adventure.