‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Star Nico Parker Says Astrid Is a ‘Boss Bitch’ in New Live-Action Film

The cast and crew of the new live-action adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon” celebrated the Los Angeles premiere Saturday at the Academy Museum.

On the carpet, the stars of the film spoke about the universal message of the bond between viking Hiccup and the dragon Toothless, and how it resonates with audiences of all ages. “One of the powerful things about the film is that it makes people feel seen,” Nico Parker, who plays Astrid, told Variety. “Despite the element that is otherworldly, whether you’re a Hiccup or an Astrid, a lot of people are touched by it.”

Gabriel Howell, who plays Snotlout, said he related to the characters the first time he watched the animated trilogy. “You feel in-between phases and in-between versions of yourself, and [director Dean DeBlois] injects the film with wonder and heart,” Howell said. “It’s the ultimate wish fulfillment, meeting a best friend who is a dragon.”

Even though it’s been over 15 years since the first animated film was released in theaters, the live-action cast was able to forge friendships out of their love for the original movie. “It’s a scary thing to be stepping into a world that is already so beloved, but the fact that I got to do it with Bronwyn [James] made me a lot more brave,” said Harry Trevaldwyn, who plays Tuffnut in the film. “The whole family on this film made it such an incredible journey, and I’m so excited to do it again.”

As the cast became closer during the filming of “How To Train Your Dragon,” the ensemble prepared for one thing in particular: dragon-fighting school. The cast found themselves bonding in Belfast on practical sets to immerse themselves into the fictional Isle of Berk. “The set we were on was massive. There were 500 viking extras and a 200-person crew,” Frost said. “I remember I had to go down to Dean and ask if he could see me shaking during the take, because I was trembling.”

Ruth Codd told Variety that the costume design for each of the vikings was a bit of a collaboration process. “You had a little bit of say in the designs, so mine was spikes and chain mail,” Codd said. Julian Dennison, who plays Fishlegs, spoke about the costume for his character:  “His costume is sort of like a fluffball. I had to really sit and get into the character. I spent 45 minutes putting my costume on.”

While collaborating on building her character with DeBlois and the rest of the cast and crew, Parker revealed that Astrid’s bravery inspired her off-screen. “As much as it’s fun to do cartwheels and beat up some dragons as Astrid, the most empowering thing I’ve learned was to be open and willing to change, and it’s something that I felt was prevalent in this movie and with this character, and it’s something that I’ve carried with me from filming,” she said. “She’s a boss bitch.” 

The premiere was also a surprise birthday celebration for DeBlois who was presented with a Viking-inspired cake and serenaded with “Happy Birthday” by star Gerard Butler.

See more photos from the premiere below.