Whether in film or literature, the fantasy genre has quickly become a beloved one, considering how it transports audiences to worlds where the impossible becomes a reality and imagination knows no bounds, often featuring captivating and immersive worldbuildings that have provided viewers with some of the most fantastical tales.
To celebrate the magic of the genre,we look back at some legendary projects that have helped shape and redefine what fantasy on the big screen could be, shaping future flicks and carving out the essence of what makes the category so unforgettable. From international gems such asThe Seventh Sealto iconic classic movies likeThe Wizard of Oz,these are the 10 movies that define fantasy, ranked by their impact on the genre.
10’The Seventh Seal' (1957)
Directed by Ingmar Bergman
Ingmar Bergman’s groundbreaking filmthrows psychological drama and fantasy into the mix as it follows a knight returning to Sweden after the Crusades seeking answers about life, death, and the existence of God as he plays chess against the Grim Reaper during the Black Plague.
Although it may not be the most obvious pick for some,the impact of Bergman’s movie on the fantasy genre is undeniable.The Seventh Sealprovides audiences with an intriguing meditation on existential questions while illustrating the importance of fantasy elements in storytelling. Not only did Bergman’s picture introduce philosophical themes into the category through its thoughtful exploration of the human condition and mortality, but it also featured striking symbolism that elevates its narrative to higher levels.
The Seventh Seal
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9’Pan’s Labyrinth' (2006)
Directed by Guillermo del Toro
Directed by master of fantasyGuillermo del Torohimself,Pan’s Labyrinthis a saddening but undeniably essential fantasy watch. Thedark coming-of-agetells the story of a girl sent to live with her stepfather in 1944 Spain. During the night, she meets a fairy who introduces her to an old faun and an imaginary world that allows her to escape from the harsh realities of “real life.”
Breathtakingly gorgeous and moving,Pan’s Labyrinthhas redefined the genre by merging complex and mature themes with the wonder of the fantastical world, featuring an innocent child at its center; instead of serving as an escape for viewers, it serves as a mirror for harsh realities and uncomfortable truths as audiences connect with the pain of its lead character. The beautiful creature designs as well as its immersive world are also worth mentioning, as they have pushed the boundaries of visual storytelling and certainly left a mark on the genre.
Pan’s Labyrinth
8’The Princess Bride' (1987)
Directed by Rob Reiner
Rob Reiner’sThe Princess Bride, aquintessential 1980s fantasy, endures as a fan favorite after all these years, and it’s not remotely difficult to understand why. Fit for all ages and tackling universal themes, the adventure epic illustrates a boy (Fred Savage) who delves into the story of a farmboy-turned-pirate (Cary Elwes) as his grandfather tells him a story. Meanwhile, he learns lessons about bravery and courage while hearing about the numerous obstacles in the ex-farmboy’s quest to reunite with his true love (Robin Wright).
Featuring memorable characters and a genuinely entertaining narrative with sharp humor and heart,The Princess Brideis widely regarded as a perfect film from start to finish. Its rich, immersive worldbuilding and quotable dialogue have earned it a special place in pop culture, subverting classic fantasy tropes and paving the way for other works in the genre. After all these years,this engaging adventureremains a beloved fantasy film that has shaped fantasy as we know it.
The Princess Bride
7’Pinocchio' (1940)
Directed by Ben Sharpsteen, Hamilton Luske, Wilfred Jackson, Norman Ferguson, Bill Roberts, Jack Kinney, and T. Hee
The ultimate fairytale,Pinocchiowas a huge turning point for Disney films and the fantasy genre, setting a gold standard for storytelling, thematic depth, and animation. The 1940 hand-drawn movie focuses on a living puppet who must prove himself worthy to become a real boy, with the help of a cricket as his conscience.
Exploring thoughtful and resonating themes, and enlightening audiences while also bewitching them, the 1940 film provides viewers with a great time. Additionally, its enduring lessons and the topics it tackles, including redemption and the power of belief, are part of its universal appeal, making for a valuable viewing for audiences of all ages. No doubt,Pinocchiois also a great achievement in fantasy, withthe way it has inspired storytellers and filmmakers in the genre being a good example.
6’Spirited Away' (2001)
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
Although many Studio Ghibli features could have made it to this list,Spirited Awayis probably the most notable given its global resonance and groundbreaking achievements which have earned the film global attention. The story focuses on a 10-year-old girl who wanders into a world ruled by gods, witches, and spirits, where humans are changed into beasts.
Resonating with audiences of all ages and cultures, thisfantastical coming-of-age dramasees fantasy as a tool for character growth, shedding light on the importance of self-transformation, mirrored through Chihiro’s journey from a frightened child to a brave individual. The first anime film to win the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, the stunning and touchingSpirited Awayis responsible for bringing Japanese animation — which many people have eventually come to know and love — to the spotlight,setting new standards for the genre while also expanding the scope of fantasy in cinema.
Spirited Away
5’Beauty and the Beast' (1946)
Directed by Jean Cocteau
When it comes togroundbreaking filmsthat have defined the fantasy genre,Jean Cocteau’sBeauty and the Beasthas to take the front stage. Based on the iconic tale byGabrielle-Suzanne de VilleneuveandJeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont, which in turn inspired the Disney classic, the film follows a woman who (Josette Day) takes her father’s place as the prisoner of a mysterious beast (Jean Marais).
Beauty and the Beastis an influential film in many ways, starting with its innovative filmmaking and visual style. The film’s practical effects and cinematography have taken the fantasy genre to another level, influencing many other movies in the genre. Released in 1946,Beauty and the Beastendures a relevant and great watch that explores themes of love and self-growth, as well as the importance of seeing beyond appearances and not to “judge a book by its cover.”
Beauty and the Beast
4The ‘Harry Potter’ Series
Directed by Chris Columbus, Alfonso Cuarón, Mike Newell, and David Yates
Adapted fromJ.K. Rowling’s books of the same name, theHarry Potterseries followsDaniel Radcliffe’s titular character in a series of adventures, as he confronts the dark wizard Lord Voldemort (Ralph Fiennes) alongside his friends. In the meantime, Harry uncovers the truth about his past and their connection, with an ultimate final battle threatening to destroy both the magical and non-magical worlds.
While there are countless greatfantasy films with top-tier worldbuilding,Harry Potter’s is one of the most intricate, with fans today still wishing they could experience the Wizarding World. Whether we’re talking about its unforgettable, morally complex characters, its immersive story, or the number of people it has reached (ensuring that fantasy is both resonant and commercially viable), the impact of the films is undeniable.Harry Potterhas brought fantasy storytelling to new heights, with its massive cultural impact leaving a lasting legacy in both literature and film.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
3’Star Wars: A New Hope' (1977)
Directed by George Lucas
While otherStar Warsmovies — particularly the original trilogy — are also worthy of a nod,A New Hopeis arguably the most groundbreaking, whether for its cutting-edge technology or the iconic premise. The first installment in this decades-long series follows Luke Skywalker as he joins forces with a Jedi Knight (Alec Guinness), a cocky pilot (Harrison Ford), a Wookie, and two droids to save the galaxy from a battle station while attempting to rescue Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher) from Darth Vader.
It’s not the least surprising thatA New Hopewas such a cultural phenomenon when it was released; its groundbreaking special effects, sound design, and immersive world design have captured the attention of both fantasy enthusiasts and those on the lookout for new exciting films. On top of its incredible execution,Star Warsfeatured solid marketing that quickly cemented its place in pop culture history.
Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope
2’The Lord of the Rings' Trilogy
Directed by Peter Jackson
Another obvious pick has got to beThe Lord of the Rings, an all-encompassing, larger-than-life fantasy trilogy that has left an unmatched imprint on fantasy. The trilogy follows a young hobbit (Elijah Wood) tasked with destroying the powerful ring that could bring darkness to Middle Earth. To stop this from happening, he embarks on a journey that leads him to confront the powerful ring itself.
Based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s books, thisfascinating franchiseset new standards for fantasy not only through its unforgettable characters and entertaining narrative, but also through astonishing filmmaking including cutting-edge visuals, sound design, and iconic music. Tackling resonating themes of power, corruption, and good versus evil,The Lord of the Ringstrilogy has shaped modern fantasy in many ways, consistently inspiring other works in the genre throughout the years.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
1’The Wizard of Oz' (1939)
Directed by Victor Fleming
Concerning fantasy pictures that have shaped the genre,Fleming’sThe Wizard of Ozis another obvious pick. The iconic movie, which starsJudy Garlandin the lead role, centers around young Dorothy Gale and her dog Toto, who are swept away by a tornado from their Kansas farm to the magical Land of Oz. Together with a few new friends, they embark on a self-discovery journey.
The Wizard of Ozhas shaped the genre in several ways, with its enduring charm and cinematic brilliance making it a quintessential fantasy feature and essential entry for anyone getting into the genre. Ranging from its innovative special effects to its memorable and touching musical numbers, Fleming’s picture has paved the way for other films, inspiring countless adaptations, and references, successfully setting the gold standard for fantasy storytelling.
