Movies

Gerard Butler Reveals Scary Transformation Into Live-Action Stoick Fan Reactions

BBG News

Gerard Butler discusses his feelings about embodying Stoick’s likeness in the real-life adaptation of “How to Train Your Dragon.” Having lent his voice to the character in the original animated films, he now steps back onto the Isle of Berk for the live-action film version. Accompanying him is a fresh cast made up of Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Nick Frost, Gabriel Howell, Julian Dennison, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Murray McArthur, Naomi Wirthner, and Ruth Codd. The live-action “How to Train Your Dragon” is slated for a June 13, 2025 release date.

Reflecting on my initial encounter with Stoick in the ScreenRant interview, I must admit that when I first laid eyes on myself, fully bearded and mustached in the completed film, a shiver of apprehension ran through me. It wasn’t just about the physical transformation; it was about embodying every moment of that character, understanding the weight of each whisker, and grasping the profound significance behind it all.

In this process, I felt a remarkable metamorphosis taking place within me. I became Stoick not just in appearance, but in spirit as well. I started to think like him, to feel his emotions, to inhabit his mindset. It was an immersive journey that allowed me to truly become one with the character. Here’s a snippet of what I expressed during the interview:

“Seeing myself as Stoick for the first time was both terrifying and exhilarating. I had to live every moment of that beard, mustache, what it all means. It wasn’t just about the physical transformation; it was about understanding the depth of the character, the weight of his role, and becoming one with him.

In terms of appearance, I must admit, I found myself questioning how they would bring such a large and vibrant character to life on screen. But when I finally saw myself as Stoick in its entirety for the first time, the result was quite remarkable. How about you? What was your initial reaction upon seeing yourself in the full production?

Gerard Butler: Scared of myself.

ScreenRant: [Laughs] Yeah?

Gerard Butler: Who are you? It was both awe-inspiring and daunting, knowing I had to deliver something special. I had to make the most of this opportunity, not just wear the costume and let it down afterwards. Every moment wearing that beard, mustache, and armor was significant, symbolizing who he is, how he moves, and how he expresses himself. But at the same time, it was exhilarating. Stepping out in that costume felt like a transformation. I became Stoick during the shoot. I was him more than I wasn’t him, and that experience made each day on set unforgettable. So, I embodied his story every day while wearing that costume, feeling drained like he did. Over time, I began to think and feel like him.

What This Means For The How To Train Your Dragon Live-Action Film

Stoick Is Hard To Render In Live-Action

In the process of transforming this animated movie, making Stoick a live-action character was undeniably one of the tougher challenges. Unlike Hiccup, who could easily be depicted by casting a youthful, slim individual with loose hair to play the Berk teenager, Stoick, in the animated version, is remarkably large and imposing, towering over his son in size. From his hat down to his long beard, he embodies typical Viking features as depicted in the animation.

Based on the trailers for “How to Train Your Dragon”, director Dean DeBlois and his team strove to preserve essential characteristics without simply replicating the character design. The bearded character still sports a long beard divided by ties, but it appears more disheveled and less groomed than before. Furthermore, Butler towers over Hiccup actor Thames, ensuring that his physical presence remains imposing. Butler’s statement suggests that his captivating performance was skillfully enhanced by hair, makeup, and costume effects.

Our Take On Butler’s Transformation For How To Train Your Dragon

The Continuity Between Worlds Is Still Welcome

In the movie “How to Train Your Dragon,” Stoick stands out uniquely because he’s the sole main character portrayed by the same actor in both the animated and live-action versions. With a host of fresh faces and high expectations to meet given the cherished legacy of its animated forerunner, this consistency might help bridge the gap between the two realms of animation and live action. Although Stoick’s appearance may not be identical, the actor, Gerard Butler, reprises his role in the live-action film, ensuring a familiar voice to the audience.

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2025-06-05 14:17

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