Ryan Reynolds’ Deadpool 2 Co-Star Join How to Train Your Dragon Live-Action Cast for Perfect Role After Gerard Butler and Nico Parker
The cast of How to Train Your Dragon live-action movie is continuing to grow with the addition of Julian Dennison. The Deadpool 2 and Hunt for the Wilderpeople breakout will reunite with other talented actors on the dragon-filled fantasy film. Dennison joins the project as Fishlegs alongside Gabriel Howell as Snotlout, Bronwyn James as Ruffnut, and Harry Trevaldwyn as Tuffnut. Playing Firefist in Deadpool 2 alongside Ryan Reynolds, Dennison proved his action chops and knack for comedy. His cameo in Deadpool 3 shows Reynolds remains eager to work with the young New Zealand actor.
What Kind of Fishlegs Will Julian Dennison Craft?
As per Variety, now Dennison gets the chance to flex his skills in a big fantasy universe. As Fishlegs, he’ll bring wit and charm to one of the central dragon-training teens. Dennison has vaulted from strength to strength since his acclaimed debut in Hunt for the Wilderpeople in 2016. With roles in Godzilla vs. Kong, Y2K, and the Christmas Chronicles films, his stardom is on the rise.
Fishlegs is known in the How to Train Your Dragon world for his encyclopedic dragon knowledge. But he struggles with self-confidence despite his smarts. Dennison has a chance to make the role his own as the franchise moves into live-action. His Fishlegs can draw on the comedic sensibilities he’s honed in past projects.
But expect a touching emotional depth as well, showcasing Dennison’s range. With his offbeat charm, he may make Fishlegs more endearing than ever.
How Will Julian Dennison Fit Into the Cast of How to Train Your Dragon?
Dennison’s breakthrough performance in Hunt for the Wilderpeople marked the start of his Hollywood rise. Director Taika Waititi spotted his talent and cast the unknown actor in the 2016 indie hit. Dennison’s witty and touching performance won over critics and audiences alike. It paved the way for his roles in major studio films like Deadpool 2. Now by joining the How to Train Your Dragon cast, Dennison continues to capitalize on the early career boost Waititi gave him. At just 20 years old, he already has an enviable resume.
Dennison joins fellow rising stars like Mason Thames and Nico Parker who lead as Hiccup and Astrid. Veterans like Gerard Butler and Nick Frost add star power. Now Deadpool 2 shows Dennison already has chemistry with A-listers like Ryan Reynolds. That will come in handy for bonding the young cast with proven greats like Butler. And after Deadpool’s raunchy humor, Dennison will get to display a more family-friendly wit as Fishlegs.
Dennison’s breakthrough in the iconic Hunt for the Wilderpeople displayed his ability to be both hilarious and heartfelt. Those skills should make him the perfect fit to stand out as Fishlegs.
What Other Epic Roles Could Julian Dennison Take On?
Still only 20, Dennison has so much potential to continue climbing the ranks of young Hollywood. Already, his career draws comparisons to fellow Kiwi phenom Russell Crowe.
With franchises like Deadpool, Godzilla vs. Kong, and now How to Train Your Dragon on his resume, blockbusters seem to call his name. But don’t expect Dennison to be pigeonholed. Look for him to seek out diverse indie projects like last year’s acclaimed Y2K as well. He may also eventually try to break into American TV.
