‘How to Train Your Dragon’ Opens Globally with $198M as Box Office Leaders Solidify Their Positions

Universal’s live-action adaptation of ‘How to Train Your Dragon,’ directed by Dean DeBlois, had a strong international debut, earning $197.8 million globally over its opening weekend. Of that, $114.1 million came from 81 overseas markets, including previews. This performance places it as the fourth biggest global opening of the year and the seventh biggest for a live-action remake. The film received strong word-of-mouth and positive audience scores across key regions like China, Mexico, and the UK.

Mexico led international markets with $14 million, the best opening for the franchise in the country. The UK followed closely with $11.4 million, while China delivered $11.2 million without any previews and registered a 9.5 rating on Maoyan, the highest for a Hollywood film in 2025 so far. Other strong markets included Brazil ($7.8M), Korea ($7.4M), France ($5.1M), and Australia ($4.4M).

Meanwhile, Disney’s ‘Lilo & Stitch’ continues to dominate, now at $858.4 million globally and nearing the $1B milestone. Paramount/Skydance’s ‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’ also passed the $500 million global mark. These box office performances highlight a robust season for major franchises.