This summer, Universal Pictures is embracing a strategy similar to Disney’s successful approach of transforming classic animated films into live-action versions, with their release of How to Train Your Dragon. Early reports from CinemaCon 2025, where the film had a preview screening, suggest that director Dean DeBlois (who also helmed the original animated movie) has truly captured the essence of the original. This likely means that in a matter of weeks, How to Train enthusiasm will surge, John Powell’s iconic score will climb the streaming charts, returning fans will discover Universal’s previously released sequel TV series set in contemporary times, and Target shelves will be stocked with fire-breathing merchandise.
While Disney’s Lilo & Stitch may pose a challenge to How to Train Your Dragon in the feel-good, nostalgic summer movie category, the extensive array of merchandise being prepared for this blockbuster is a strong indicator of its box office potential. The brand presence surrounding How to Train Your Dragon is extensive, leading to the creation of a rather intriguing, if mildly terrifying, product that I find myself wanting for every child—though I also have some reservations about encountering it in real life.
Introducing Spin Master’s Blast & Roar Toothless Mask, designed to elevate imaginative dragon play. The mask features AAA-enabled lights and sounds to imitate Toothless’ signature actions. Notably, it also includes a “mist-blasting” capability to simulate Toothless’ plasma bolt attack, activating when the user roars. According to its description, the mask comes with “one bottle” (though it doesn’t specify what the bottle contains) and families can “refill the internal reservoir for endless movie-themed dress-up adventures.”
There’s no denying the potential fun that the How to Train Your Dragon Blast & Roar Toothless Mask promises for its wearers. Kids are sure to enjoy launching “plasma” within their vicinity. However, I can’t help but find the mask’s design somewhat unsettling—an uncanny representation of Toothless that dispenses a spray of water instead of a fiery torrent. Honestly, if a small Night Fury came up to me and doused me with mist, I’d be less than thrilled. This hardly captures the exhilaration of watching Toothless glide through the skies in How to Train Your Dragon.
Can you imagine wearing this mask for an extended time? It’s available for $34.99. However, it may be wise to leave it at home when you go to see How to Train Your Dragon on June 13, to avoid potential mishaps reminiscent of the infamous Chicken Jockey incident.
