Nico Parker is wilfully overlooking the discontent stirred by her portrayal of Astrid, the dragon hunter-turned-rider, in the live-action adaptation of 'How to Train Your Dragon'. In the original animated film, Astrid sports blonde hair and blue eyes, prompting numerous film enthusiasts to criticize Parker for her deviations in appearance, marked by her brown hair and eyes.
In an exclusive interview with The Times of London, the 'The Last of Us' star confronted the online uproar, calmly asserting that she doesn't allow such remarks to penetrate her psyche. "There are individuals who hold the animated movies dear and yearn for a mirror-image replication of the film," she said. "Regardless, I hope you find something to cherish in [the new version]," she added thoughtfully.
The 20-year-old British actress passionately elaborated further, "For those who harbor resentment towards inclusivity and reject any form of change, I could scarcely be more indifferent." Parker's voice rang out with profound conviction as she continued, "If I do not respect your viewpoint on the majority of life's matters, why should I entertain your opinion on my hairstyle? To do otherwise would be nothing short of absurd."The daughter of director Ol Parker and actress Thandiwe Newton recounted how, in her younger years, the representation of "mixed-race or Black icons" in Hollywood was "scarcely existent." However, she finds it "incredibly heartening" to witness the strides the industry has made.
Slated for release on June 13, 'How to Train Your Dragon' eagerly awaits its audience.
