17th June 2025

Behind-The-Scenes: Soaring To Life Premieres On Studio Universal

HTTYD Making of 2

Behind-the-scenes Special Reveals the Magic of How to Train Your Dragon’s Live-action Film Adaptation

Johannesburg, 6 June 2025 — In anticipation of the nationwide cinema release of How To Train Your Dragon, the highly awaited live-action adaptation of the iconic animated franchise, Studio Universal (DStv 112) is dedicating June to a comprehensive How To Train Your Dragon channel takeover. This special programming event features an exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary and screenings of the original animated films, offering South African audiences an immersive lead-up to the cinematic debut.

Exclusive Behind-The-Scenes Access

Launching on Tuesday, 10 June 2025 at 17:30, Soaring To Life: The Making Of How To Train Your Dragon delivers an insider’s perspective on the film’s production. Viewers will gain unprecedented access to the creative process that brought Berk’s world to life in stunning live-action detail. The special includes candid interviews with lead actors Mason Thames, Nico Parker, and Gerard Butler, alongside revealing insights into the advanced technology and cinematic craftsmanship that underpin this ambitious adaptation.

Back-To-Back Screenings Of The Beloved Animated Classics

To complement the documentary, Studio Universal will screen How To Train Your Dragon and How To Train Your Dragon 2 consecutively on Saturday, 14 June 2025 from 15:00. This curated viewing experience invites fans to revisit the origins of the franchise’s enduring appeal, setting the stage for the new live-action film’s release.

The Upcoming Live-Action Release

Slated for release in cinemas across South Africa on Friday, 13 June 2025, the live-action How To Train Your Dragon brings the enchanting story of Hiccup, Astrid, and the dragons to a new generation. Starring Mason Thames as Hiccup, Nico Parker as Astrid, and with Gerard Butler reprising his role as Stoick the Vast, the film promises a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant adventure that honours the legacy of its source material.

Don’t Miss This Month-Long Celebration

Whether rediscovering the magic or encountering Berk for the first time, audiences can immerse themselves in the world of dragons throughout June on Studio Universal. Mark your calendars for the premiere of Soaring To Life on 10 June at 17:30, followed by the animated feature marathon on 14 June at 15:00.