“Legends don’t fade. They return with the tide.” Get ready to embark on an enchanting new adventure in How to Train Your Dragon 4: The Shadow Tide, arriving in theaters in 2026, featuring the voices of Jay Baruchel and America Ferrera. This eagerly awaited sequel picks up many years after dragons have slipped into the realm of myth, drawing audiences back into a world where memories collide with ancient truths.

As time passes on the idyllic island of Berk, peace feels tenuous, leaving behind whispers of dragons in the wind. However, strange shadows rise from the sea, signaling the awakening of ancient sea-dragons, disturbed by a mysterious force older than the very fabric of Berk itself. When coastal villages start to vanish beneath the waves, Hiccup is faced with a harrowing reality: the dragons didn’t leave out of fear or shame—they left to prepare for a coming storm.

Under a moonless sky, Hiccup reunites with his beloved dragon, Toothless, reigniting the bond that has always defined their relationship. Together, they must venture into uncharted waters, grappling with the difficult choice between preserving a peaceful existence or unleashing powers that could drown it. The stakes escalate, pushing Hiccup to confront not only the returning peril but also the legacy of choices made long ago.

The final act of The Shadow Tide is both breathtaking and bittersweet, illustrating the profound intersection of friendship and destiny. As Hiccup navigates this treacherous path, he learns that sometimes, the bravest act is letting go—whether it’s embracing change, accepting loss, or facing the truth of one’s past.

Final verdict: How to Train Your Dragon 4: The Shadow Tide is a stunning, emotionally rich continuation that honors the trilogy’s ending while expanding its mythology. The action sequences are truly epic, and the score soars to new heights, blending seamlessly with the heartfelt moments that have always characterized this cherished series. Rated a remarkable 9.6/10, this film is a thrilling return that feels both nostalgic and fresh, ensuring that both old fans and new audiences will be swept away. Are you ready to dive into this captivating journey where legends reawaken and friendship awakens new possibilities?