Phil Dunster’s Eret: A Swashbuckling New Energy for How to Train Your Dragon 2
The live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon 2 is stirring up anticipation as Phil Dunster steps into the rugged boots of Eret, infusing the character with a vibrant, dragon-inspired spirit reminiscent of cinematic pirates. Dunster, renowned for his Emmy-nominated turn as Jamie Tartt in Ted Lasso, shares intriguing insights into embodying Eret, originally voiced by Kit Harington in the animated saga.
A ‘Dragon-Esque’ Jack Sparrow
In recent conversations about bringing Eret to life, Dunster captures the imagination by describing his character as a ‘dragon-esque Jack Sparrow.’ Fans of fantasy and adventure cinema will immediately sense the nod toward a swashbuckling charisma—unpredictable and magnetic. Dunster explains, ‘He had a little bit of Jack Sparrow in him, but with a fierce, dragon-world twist.’ This personality shift marks a departure from Harington’s voice acting, as Dunster crafts Eret with rogue charm and a compelling sense of redemption.
Building On an Established Legacy
Taking up a role with so much history isn’t lost on Dunster. He recounts the advantages of inheriting an established ‘template‘: Harington’s animated performance acts as a springboard, providing both freedom and responsibility to reimagine Eret for a new audience. This respect for character roots while daring to innovate is often what sets memorable franchise entries apart.
On Set: An Immersive World Guided by Dean DeBlois
Production on How to Train Your Dragon 2 is already underway, and by all accounts, the experience is as joyful as it is immersive. Dunster credits director and creator Dean DeBlois for fostering an atmosphere where cast and crew can truly lose themselves in the majestic Viking-dragon world. ‘Dean has made this world, and everyone is living in it. It's beautiful,’ Dunster remarks, pointing to the visionary consistency DeBlois brought across both animated and live-action adaptations. It's this kind of hands-on creative leadership that fans of the genre recognize from franchises like Jurassic Park and The Lord of the Rings.
The Evolving Arc of Eret
Eret, a character with complex loyalty, first appeared as a formidable dragon trapper in the animated films, only to switch allegiances when confronted with the consequences of his actions. Dunster steps into this morally tangled journey, offering the chance for a textured, performance-driven redemption story. In a franchise that excels at giving side characters substantial arcs, Eret's evolution promises a new layer of emotional depth for audiences familiar with the original films.
Star-Studded Cast and Continuity
The new adaptation assembles a powerful ensemble alongside Dunster. Mason Thames assumes the role of Hiccup, with Nico Parker as Astrid and Gerard Butler returning as Stoick the Vast. Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett reprises her role as Valka, transitioning from voice acting in the animated series back to live-action. This careful blend of fresh talent and franchise veterans suggests that the commitment to authenticity and fan-favorite moments remains intact.
A Proven Box Office Phenomenon
The first live-action How to Train Your Dragon achieved instant commercial and critical success, debuting at the top of box office charts and earning standout praise from both audiences and critics. With certification as Fresh and audience approval ratings soaring, the franchise has demonstrated its resilience and adaptability across formats. Anticipation now mounts as the sequel aims to captivate both loyal followers and a new generation of fantasy movie-goers.
Looking Ahead: What to Expect from the Live-Action Sequel
Fans can look forward to more than high-flying action and dragon spectacle. With behind-the-scenes leadership from DeBlois, a dynamic cast, and the promise of deeper character explorations, this latest installment in the How to Train Your Dragon universe is set to further elevate a beloved world—blending nostalgia with fresh, adventurous storytelling. The film's nominations for high-profile awards in fantasy, visual effects, and younger performances underscore industry confidence in the project's quality and impact.
Key Cast and Team
- Mason Thames — Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III
- Nico Parker — Astrid Hofferson
- Gerard Butler — Stoick the Vast
- Cate Blanchett — Valka Haddocka
- Phil Dunster — Eret
- Director/Writer: Dean DeBlois
- Producers: Marc Platt, Adam Siegel
