Actress Cate Blanchett is officially cast as Valka in the live-action sequel to How to Train Your Dragon

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cate blanchett Foto: cate blanchett - DFree/Shutterstock.com

Universal Pictures confirmed the participation of award-winning actress Cate Blanchett in the continuation of the live-action adaptation of “Como Treinar o Seu Dragão”. Ela will play Valka, the mother of protagonist Soluço, reprising the role she voiced in the original DreamWorks animations. The production, which will continue the events of the first film, has a global premiere scheduled for June 11, 2027.

The announcement reinforces the studio’s strategy of maintaining cohesion between the animation’s voice cast and the actors in the live-action version. Dean DeBlois, who was at the helm of the acclaimed animated trilogy, returns to lead the new project as writer, director and producer, ensuring fidelity to the original vision of the saga that won over millions of fans around the world.

Como Treinar seu Dragão
As Treinar its Dragão – Divulgação

The sequel will continue to explore the complex universe where Vikings and dragons coexist, deepening the relationships between the characters and introducing new challenges. The inclusion of Blanchett in the cast raises expectations for the development of one of the most important characters in the second arc of the story.

Stellar cast of the sequel

The main cast returning for the sequel includes young talents and industry veterans. Mason Thames will bring to life again Soluço, the ingenious young Viking who becomes leader of his people and a master dragon rider. By your side, Nico Parker returns as Astrid, your companion and one of the most fearless warriors on the island of Berk. The chemistry between the two was one of the highlights of the first film and will be fundamental for the new journey.

Gerard Butler is also confirmed to reprise his role as Estoico, the Imenso, father of Soluço and chief of the tribe. Butler was the first actor from the original dub to transition to live-action, a move praised by fans and critics. The cast is complemented by names like Julian Dennison, Gabriel Howell, who will play Melequento, as well as Bronwyn James and Harry Trevaldwyn in supporting roles, making up the Viking community of

The crucial role of Valka in the saga

The character Valka is fundamental to the expansion of the franchise’s universe. Apresentada in the second film of the animation, she is the mother of Soluço, who was believed to be dead two decades ago. Durante This time, she lived isolated in a secret sanctuary, dedicating her life to rescuing and protecting dragons from hunters.

His reunion with Soluço and Estoico triggers a series of exciting events and conflicts, adding a deep layer of family drama to the adventure plot. Valka has knowledge about dragons that surpasses even her son’s, becoming an essential mentor for him.

The choice of Cate Blanchett for the role is strategic, considering his ability to play complex characters with a strong stage presence. Sua transition from dubbing to acting in the flesh promises to bring a new dimension to the matriarchal and protective figure of dragons.

The team behind the production

Creative continuity is one of the pillars of the project. With Dean DeBlois at the helm, the production ensures that the spirit and essence of the animated trilogy are preserved. Sua experience in building this world is a differentiator for the success of the adaptation.

The production is in charge of Marc Platt, known for his work on major box office hits. Platt produces through his company based at Universal, Marc Platt Productions, alongside Adam Siegel, president of the company.

Oversight of film development at the studio is the responsibility of Lexi Barta, senior vice president of production at Universal Pictures. The team is committed to delivering a visual spectacle that honors the legacy of animation.

Filming is scheduled to begin in 2026, with a schedule that aims to meet the ambitious mid-2027 release date.

Legacy of the franchise and the transition to live-action

The “Like Treinar or Seu Dragão” franchise is based on the popular book series by British author Cressida Cowell. Desde the release of the first animation in 2010, the saga has become a global phenomenon, celebrated for its gripping narrative, captivating characters and technical innovation. The first live-action film, released in June 2025, solidified this success by grossing more than $636 million worldwide. The positive reception from critics and the public, which highlighted the fidelity to the original work and the impressive visual effects, was the main catalyst for the rapid approval of the sequel. The adaptation managed to overcome the challenge of translating the magic of animation into a realistic format, especially in the creation of the creatures, which maintained their iconic personalities and designs, such as the charismatic Banguela, of the species Fúria of the Noite.

The technology behind dragons

One of the biggest assets of the live-action version is the technology used to bring the dragons to life. The production combines practical effects, such as scale models and animatronics for direct interactions with the cast, with cutting-edge computer graphics (CGI). Essa hybrid approach gives greater realism and weight to the creatures, making their presence on stage more tangible and impactful for the audience.

The visual effects team, which returns for the sequel, carried out detailed work studying animal physiology and behavior to create the dragons’ movements. Cada species, from Gronkel to Zíper Arrepiante, has unique characteristics that have been carefully transposed from the animation, ensuring visual consistency and immediate recognition by fans of the franchise.

Cate Blanchett’s recent career

The addition of Cate Blanchett to the cast adds considerable prestige to the production. Vencedora of two Oscars, the actress is known for her versatility and for delivering outstanding performances in a wide range of genres, from critically acclaimed dramas to major blockbusters.

Her recent work demonstrates her continued relevance in Hollywood, taking part in projects that challenge her skills and cement her status as one of the most talented actresses of her generation. Sua experience will be vital to give the necessary depth to Valka.

Expectations for the launch

With its release scheduled for June 11, 2027, Universal positions the film as one of the main releases of the summer season in the northern hemisphere, a period traditionally dominated by major adventure and fantasy productions. The expectation is that the sequel will surpass the numbers of the first film and further expand the saga’s fan base, attracting both the audience that grew up with the animations and new generations of viewers.

Maria Clara é colaboradora da redação do Mix Vale, portal de notícias com cobertura de Brasil e mundo. Produz conteúdo nas editorias de economia e benefícios, com foco em informação de serviço para o leitor brasileiro. Escreve para o portal desde 2016: Formação: Atriz.

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