Top 10 Best Fantasy Movies

Best Fantasy Movies

Fantasy movies offer a glimpse into magical and mystical worlds that surround the viewer. These 10 fantastic fantasy movies are not set in Middle Earth.

10. Dragonlance: Dragons of the autumn twilight (2008)

The Dragonlance books can be used as a chaser for Tolkien’s works, but they also provide great swords and sorcery adventure for anyone who needs a break from the Hobbits. The Dungeons and Dragons books were inspired by one film adaptation. 

It deserves far more attention than it got. You can generate fantasy names using an online god name generator tool. 

Dragons of the Autumn Twilight is based on the book by Weis & Hickman. It follows a group of adventurers who set out to defeat an evil ruler and his dragons. Although it’s somewhat formulaic, the main cast features outstanding voice performances from the likes of Kiefer Northland, Lucy Lawless, and Jason Marsden.

9. The neverending story (1984)

While this 1980s classic has some Tolkien-esque moments, Fantasia feels more like an 80s dream world than a book. Although it may have Racing Snails and Luck Dragons, its surrealistic nature deserves special recognition.

Although the quality of sequels may have been different, the original is still one of the most loved films of all time. The film, like the adventures in Middle-Earth, relies on heroic travels, mysterious evils, and even encounters Avec dragons to transport its viewers to a new world.

8. Princess Mononoke (1997)

While The Lord of the Rings was filled with thrilling battles and great combat, Hayao Miyazaki has created an environmental epic called Princess Mononoke. Fantasy fans will find plenty to love in this book, which features magic, warrior maidens, and spirits of the forest. It also includes a translation by Neil Gaiman.

Although anime movies are not for everyone, this movie is so grand that Tolkien fans can’t resist it. Despite the absence of Ents and Elves in this cast, there is some familiarity.

7. Conan The Barbarian (1982)

Although the Terminator is his most beloved and well-known role, Conan the Barbarian made Arnold Schwarzenegger a legend in the fantasy genre. He is unstoppable in his thirst for blood and vengeance, and, like many Middle-Earth heroes, comes equipped with a powerful sword to help him win.

Although it is a bit more violent than traditional high fantasy, it still has all the swords & sorcery you would expect from a traditional hero’s story.

6. The Black Cauldron (1985)

It wouldn’t be inaccurate to say that The Black Cauldron looks like The Lord of the Rings. However, it is only because they drew from the same source material. The film is an intensely dark fantasy set in the 1980s. It features a farmer boy who is taken on a great adventure with an enchanted weapon of war. However, it was not inspired by the War of the Ring.

Tolkien, Lloyd Alexander, and others used Welsh mythology as inspiration to create their worlds. There was bound to be overlap. Both have similar aesthetics and traditional fantasy formulae but can be enjoyed by both.

5. Excalibur (1981)

Excalibur is an intense type of fantasy. It abandons the traditional narrative and tradition of the Arthurian legends and cranks up all the fantasy elements to the level of 12. It’s a Frank Frazetta painting, a poster for heavy metal, or a Frank Frazetta painting. But it’s one of the most amazing adaptations of King Arthur.

The film follows Arthur’s journey from the noble king, to fierce warrior, and Merlin from a wise old mentor, to a powerful sorcerer. Lord of The Rings also has Arthurian elements. However, this movie is by far the best.

4. The Princess Bride (1987)

This movie is the perfect example of a storybook romance story. However, it also has many beloved fantasy elements that go well with its charm and wit. This fairytale classic features brave heroes, beautiful princesses, strange old wizards, and many other characters.

Although it may not appeal to The Lord of the Rings lovers, the classic romance and fantasy movie elements will be a welcome addition to those who are familiar with The Hobbit. 

Even though the film adaptations took some liberties, the prequel was originally written as a fairytale. It’s still a wonderful film that younger viewers can use to start their quest.

3. The Dark Crystal (1982)

The Dark Crystal is a large order, regardless of whether it has been included in the prequel series. It’s been called Henson’s Lord of the Rings by some fans, which is not an unfair comparison. While it has its magic and elves, the real comparisons are in the lore.

Both stories are rich and beautiful. However, Henson used creature designs to create his story while Tolkien used fictional language. Both of these passion projects have a huge fanbase, so it’s not surprising that they are often compared.

2. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)

The Dark Crystal was Henson’s Lord of the Rings. Pan’s Labyrinth could have been considered Guillermo del Toro’s. This film is rich in mythology and literature, which gives it a rich world. This is a del Toro movie, so it’s full of his wonderful monsters and creature designs.

It has been called a fairytale for adults and the fact that it takes place during Francoist Spain is a testament to this. It’s magical and beautiful with fairies, fauns, and other fairy tale characters. It’s also graphic and scary with horrifying monsters and cruel army captains. Needless to mention, Tolkien would be impressed.

1. The Chronicles Of Narnia (2005 – 2010)

The mystical lands in Aslan’s kingdom are the only realm that can ever be compared to Bilbo, Frodo, and Sam. There are few movies, realms, or books that are as captivating and expansive as The Chronicles of Narnia, from the Eastern Ocean to the thrones of Cair Parcel.