The Best Fantasy Films of All Time

Although fantasy is a genre that defies definition, what unites the films on this list is a focus on magic, mythology and new imagined worlds. From ethereal and darker fantasies to children's tales and live-action puppetry, these fantasy films are contrasted but captivated audiences for decades.

1. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001) This list would not be complete without mentioning the world's most famous fantasy trilogy. Directed by Peter Jackson, the film follows a group of adventurers in a quest to destroy a powerful ring that has the power to bring back an evil dark lord.
2. The Princess Bride (1987) This romantic fantasy film is a classic tale about a farm girl who dreams of becoming a princess. It stars Cary Elwes as Westley, a farm boy who must rescue his true love from the clutches of evil.
3. The Neverending Story (1984) This film is a children's fantasy that follows a young boy who finds a magic book that transports him to a mythical world in need of saving. A classic from the 80s, it follows a young boy who enters a magical world through a novel.
4. The Wizard of Oz (1939) A film that needs no introduction, this fantasy classic follows a young girl who is transported to a magical land called Oz.
5. The Labyrinth (1986) This fantasy film follows the story of a girl who is transported to a magical labyrinth where she must rescue her brother from the clutches of the goblin king. A classic tale of good versus evil.
6. The Dark Crystal (1982) This film is a dark fantasy that follows the story of two Gelflings who are on a quest to restore a broken crystal and overthrow the evil Skeksis. A must-watch for any fantasy fan, this film's unique style is attributed to being directed by Jim Henson.
7. The Witcher (2019) This fantasy film, based on the book series of the same name, follows a solitary witcher who must protect a young princess from a dangerous creature. A tale of adventure, fate, and the struggle between good and evil.
8. The Hunger Games: Catching Fire (2013) This dystopian fantasy follows a young girl who must fight for her life in a cruel game. It is a classic tale of good versus evil, and it will keep you on the edge of your seat.
9. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003) The final film in the Lord of the Rings trilogy is a masterpiece of fantasy cinema. It follows the journey of Aragorn, who must take up his rightful throne as king.
10. The NeverEnding Story II: The Next Chapter (1990) This sequel to the NeverEnding Story follows a young girl who is transported to a magical world where she must save the kingdom from dark forces. A classic tale of good versus evil and the power of the imagination.
11. Spirited Away (2001) This Japanese animated film follows a young girl who is transported to a magical world where she must work to break a curse. A whimsical and colourful adventure, this film will capture your imagination.
12. The Secret Garden (1993) This classic children's fantasy film follows a young girl who is sent to live with her uncle in a lonely house where she discovers a secret garden. A tale of friendship, love, and the power of the imagination.
13. Howl's Moving Castle (2004) This Japanese animated film follows a young girl who is turned into an old woman by a witch's curse and must adventure to break the spell. A whimsical and colourful adventure, this film is a must-see for fans of fantasy and animation.
14. The Sword in the Stone (1963) This classic Disney film follows the adventures of a young boy who must prove his worth as a king. A colourful and whimsical adventure, this film is a must-see for any fan of fantasy and animation.
15. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005) This live-action adaptation of the beloved children's novel follows four children who are transported to a magical world where they must fight against the forces of evil. A classic tale of good versus evil and the power of imagination.
16. Journey to the Center of the Earth (2008) This film is an adaptation of the classic novel about a group of scientists who must travel to the center of the earth to save their colleague from an evil creature. A thrilling adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
17. Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief (2010) This film is an adaptation of the popular children's book series by Rick Riordan and follows a young boy who must go on an adventure to retrieve the lightning bolt stolen by the evil god, Zeus. A classic tale of good versus evil and the power of friendship.
18. The Shape of Water (2017) This fantasy film follows a mute custodian who falls in love with a humanoid amphibian creature. A heartwarming tale of love and acceptance, it is a must-see for fans of fantasy and romance.
19. Stardust (2007) This film is a whimsical and colourful adventure that follows a young man