So yesterday, I finally got to try 4DX for the first time! I watched the live-action How To Train Your Dragon at UP Town Center in QC, mainly because it’s the only place near me that offers 4DX. 😅

I’ve always been curious about it, and since HTTYD is one of my comfort films, I figured this was the perfect one to experience in 4DX.

The moment the movie started, the seats were already moving. From the dragon flights to the boat scenes, every motion was synced. It felt like I was part of the ride, which was fun and immersive… until it got a bit too much. 😂

There were moments I just wanted to focus on the dialogue or the emotional beats, but the seat was still shaking, so yeah, it got a little distracting. Still, it was fun to try, and I can see how this format can be exciting for fantasy or action-packed films. I didn’t feel wind or water like I expected, but I did notice some scent effects. I'm not sure if it was from the system or someone’s perfume, LOL!!! But it added something to the experience.

As someone who loves filmmaking and storytelling, I have to say, I was surprised (and honestly impressed) by how they handled this adaptation.

They included little details from the original animated film that only longtime fans would notice:

The eel moment was there!
That cute, tiny dragon made an appearance.
Toothless drawing in the dirt was recreated too; it was just as wholesome in live action. A small moment, but it really captured the charm of the original.

And the final battle? Okay, that one was intense. The seat movements went full beast mode during that part. Every dive, blast, and dragon roar had my chair going wild, and I was honestly enjoying the ride. (Pun intended 😂)

The cast did a great job capturing the personalities of the original characters. Hiccup still had that awkward charm. Stoick was powerful and stubborn, but with a heart. Astrid felt strong and fierce. Toothless, without even speaking, still had so much emotion. You could tell the team behind this respected the source material.

Would I watch every movie in 4DX? Probably not. But for something like How To Train Your Dragon, it made sense. It turned a familiar story into a fresh, immersive experience.

As a filmmaker, I’m excited to see how more live-action adaptations like this can keep the spirit of the original, without feeling forced or cheesy. This one had heart. And I appreciated that.