10 Movies & Shows Like How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

Description: This classic film shares with 'How to Train Your Dragon' a focus on young protagonists navigating a dangerous world and forming unlikely friendships. Both films deal with themes of loss, courage, and the importance of family (both biological and chosen). The animation in both is expressive and memorable, with iconic character designs.

Fact: The film was executive produced by Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. It spawned numerous direct-to-video sequels. The original script was much darker, with more intense scenes that were later toned down.

Description: Both 'The Iron Giant' and 'How to Train Your Dragon' feature young protagonists who form deep friendships with misunderstood creatures. The themes of acceptance, sacrifice, and bravery are central to both stories. The emotional tone is similarly poignant, with both films balancing action and heartfelt moments.

Fact: The film was directed by Brad Bird, who later directed 'The Incredibles' and 'Ratatouille'. Despite critical acclaim, the film was a box office disappointment. The Iron Giant's design was inspired by a combination of robots from 1950s sci-fi films.

Description: This film shares with 'How to Train Your Dragon' a strong focus on the bond between humans and animals, as well as themes of freedom and resilience. Both stories are told from the perspective of the animal (Spirit and Toothless), offering a unique viewpoint. The emotional tone is similarly heartfelt, with stunning animation that brings the characters and their worlds to life.

Fact: 'Spirit' was the first traditionally animated film to be produced by DreamWorks Animation. The film's soundtrack was composed by Hans Zimmer and features songs by Bryan Adams. The animators studied real horses to capture their movements and behaviors accurately.

Description: Like 'How to Train Your Dragon', 'Howl's Moving Castle' is a fantastical tale that blends adventure, friendship, and self-discovery. Both films feature protagonists who form deep connections with misunderstood creatures (Calcifer and Toothless) and challenge societal norms. The storytelling style in both films is rich with emotional depth and imaginative world-building, appealing to both children and adults.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by British author Diana Wynne Jones. Director Hayao Miyazaki was inspired to make the film after visiting a small town in France. The moving castle's design was inspired by a steampunk aesthetic, combining mechanical and magical elements.

Description: Similar to 'How to Train Your Dragon', 'The Croods' is an animated adventure film that explores themes of family, discovery, and overcoming fears. Both films feature a protagonist who challenges the status quo and forms an unlikely bond with creatures that their community fears. The visual aesthetics of both films are vibrant and imaginative, creating fantastical worlds that captivate audiences.

Fact: 'The Croods' was the first DreamWorks Animation film to be distributed by 20th Century Fox after the end of their distribution deal with Paramount Pictures. The film's development began in 2005, making it one of DreamWorks' longest-developed projects. Nicolas Cage, who voices the father, Grug, based his performance on his own father.

Description: This film, like 'How to Train Your Dragon', combines adventure with deep emotional and philosophical themes. Both stories follow young protagonists who learn important life lessons through their journeys. The animation style in 'The Little Prince' is unique, blending CGI with stop-motion, much like the innovative techniques used in 'How to Train Your Dragon'.

Fact: The film is based on the classic novella by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry. It was the first animated feature film adaptation of the book. The film was produced by Netflix and released in select theaters before streaming.

Description: Similar to 'How to Train Your Dragon', 'The Good Dinosaur' explores the bond between a young protagonist and a creature (in this case, a human boy). Both films are set in prehistoric or fantastical worlds and deal with themes of friendship, survival, and overcoming fears. The animation in both films is breathtaking, with lush landscapes and detailed character designs.

Fact: The film underwent significant changes during production, including a complete recast and rewrite. The original director, Bob Peterson, was replaced by Peter Sohn. The film's setting is an alternate history where dinosaurs never went extinct.

Description: While more comedic, 'The Secret Life of Pets' shares with 'How to Train Your Dragon' a focus on the relationships between humans and their animal companions. Both films explore the idea of animals having rich inner lives and personalities. The animation style in both is vibrant and detailed, creating engaging and lively worlds.

Fact: The film was inspired by the short film 'Dogs' by Illumination Entertainment's founder, Chris Meledandri. The voice cast includes Louis C.K., Eric Stonestreet, and Kevin Hart. The film's success led to a sequel released in

Description: This film, like 'How to Train Your Dragon', is a visually stunning adventure that blends action, fantasy, and emotional storytelling. Both films feature young protagonists who embark on epic journeys, facing personal and external challenges. The themes of family, legacy, and courage are central to both stories, and the animation in both is meticulously crafted.

Fact: 'Kubo and the Two Strings' is the first Laika film to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. The film uses stop-motion animation combined with CGI for certain effects. The story is inspired by Japanese folklore and culture.

Description: Like 'How to Train Your Dragon', 'Raya and the Last Dragon' is an epic adventure that explores themes of trust, unity, and redemption. Both films feature strong, determined protagonists who form bonds with dragons. The animation in both is visually spectacular, with rich world-building and dynamic action sequences.

Fact: The film is inspired by Southeast Asian cultures and mythology. It features the first Southeast Asian Disney princess. The voice cast includes Kelly Marie Tran and Awkwafina.