Original writer/director Dean DeBlois returns for a revamped “Dragon” that feels like a different experience but is just as good as the original, with moments of wonder and awe featuring characters fleshed out in new ways – literally and figuratively.

In an era of skepticism around live-action remakes, Universal believes audiences will take flight with Hiccup and Toothless again.

In the live-action, Astrid and Hiccup have an extended heart-to-heart before he goes out into the arena.

While early week projections were $65M-$75M, exhibition has been pushing this one in hopes they can wrangle a $100M opening.