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Gerard Butler, the Hollywood actor known for his role in the How to Train Your Dragon trilogy, shared his deep connection to Belfast while filming the first live-action remake of the animated series in Northern Ireland. The film was shot at various locations in early 2024, showcasing the stunning landscapes of Belfast, Dunseverick Castle on the north Antrim coast, and Tollymore Forest in County Down. Butler expressed his fondness for the city, referring to the locals as “his people” and feeling like he was their adopted son during his time there.
Portraying the character of Viking leader Stoick, Gerard Butler praised the Northern Irish crew for their exceptional work in bringing the mythical world of dragons and Vikings to life. The actor mentioned the challenges of filming in the cold temperatures of Northern Ireland but also highlighted the professionalism of the crew and their dedication to creating an incredible cinematic experience. The production, which lasted from mid-January to mid-May in 2024, contributed over £59m to the local economy and provided employment to over 900 local individuals across various roles.
Apart from his work on set, Gerard Butler also shared amusing anecdotes about his time off-camera in Belfast and nearby towns. He recounted a funny incident where he mistakenly entered a local pub, expecting a calm atmosphere but instead found himself swarmed by enthusiastic fans. Despite the unexpected reception, Butler enjoyed his time in Northern Ireland and expressed his excitement for the possibility of filming a sequel in the same location. His co-star Nick Frost also voiced his appreciation for the city’s historical charm and hoped for the opportunity to have the sequel shot closer to his home.
The young stars of the film, Mason Thames and Nico Parker, echoed the sentiment of returning to Northern Ireland for a sequel, expressing their admiration for the stunning landscapes and the warmth of the local community. They reminisced about the challenging filming conditions, including the freezing temperatures on the north coast, but also praised the beauty of the surroundings. Additionally, Mason Thames humorously shared his lucky escape from a crew-wide case of food poisoning, attributing his immunity to his adventurous cold-water swimming experience. Overall, the cast and crew of How to Train Your Dragon had a memorable and rewarding experience filming in Northern Ireland, solidifying their desire to return for future projects
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