How To Train Your Dragon in Northern Ireland

In Belfast, the production spent several months in early 2024 filming at Belfast Harbour Studios and Titanic Studios.

"We also built substantial sets on our back lot," David Cain said.

"Obviously a lot of our work takes place on the mythical island of Berk and its village, so we built a lot of our sets outside for natural light and natural weather."

Audiences in Northern Ireland will quickly recognize the rugged coastline of Dunseverick, where teenagers Hiccup - played by Mason Thames - and Astrid - played by Nico Parker - have a heart-to-heart talk in one of the film's key scenes.

Hiccup befriends the young dragon, Toothless, challenging Viking certainties and the conflict with the dragons.

David Cain said Northern Ireland was "doing everything right" in trying to attract more big films.

"I think you now have a ground of talent in crew," he said.

"What we know as extras, the guys are just so good.

"You've got stages now - I know Belfast Harbour is kind of growing as a development and there's other stages around."

Six years after it ended, it is clear that Game of Thrones left a lasting legacy.

David Cain thinks that How to Train Your Dragon can also screen Northern Ireland to the world.

"Northern Ireland has always had a good reputation with the Game of Thrones HBO stuff that's been done there and there's been numerous films made there," he said.

"We're a big film and hopefully it'll draw attention to the talent and locations and stages and the beauty that Northern Ireland has on offer."

How to Train Your Dragon is in cinemas on 9 June.