Dragons are iconic figures in mythology and fantasy across various cultures, universally recognized as large, serpentine beings symbolizing destruction, power, and wisdom. These mythical creatures have been reimagined in numerous forms through games, shows, plays, and movies. When you think of a "Dragon Movie," you might expect a film focused on these majestic beasts. Interestingly, despite their popularity, there are fewer dragon-centric movies than one might assume. As a result, our list includes films where dragons play significant roles, even if they are not the sole focus.
Here's our curated selection of the top dragon movies of all time.
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Maleficent (2014)
Image credit: Walt Disney PicturesDirector: Robert Stromberg | Writer: Linda Woolverton | Stars: Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Sharlto Copley | Release Date: May 30, 2014 | Review: IGN's Maleficent review | Where to watch: Stream on TBS, TNT, and tru TV, rentable on Amazon and other platforms
Kicking off our list is "Maleficent," Disney's fresh take on the villain from the 1959 classic "Sleeping Beauty." The plot follows princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) as she is cursed by Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) due to past grievances. A notable twist in this re-imagining is that Maleficent doesn't transform into a dragon herself; instead, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon towards the movie's climax.
Spirited Away (2001)
Image credit: Studio GhibliDirector: Hayao Miyazaki | Writer: Hayao Miyazaki | Stars: JP: Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki; Eng: Daveigh Chase, Suzanne Pleshette, Jason Marsden | Release Date: July 20, 2001 | Review: IGN's Spirited Away review | Where to watch: Max, or rentable on other platforms
"Spirited Away" by Hayao Miyazaki is another film where dragons make a notable appearance but aren't the main focus. This enchanting story follows Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) as she navigates a spirit world to save her parents from a permanent transformation. The white dragon, rooted in Japanese folklore, plays a crucial role in the plot and Chihiro's journey.
For more enchanting films, check out our list of the best Studio Ghibli movies.
The NeverEnding Story (1984)
Image credit: Warner Bros.Director: Wolfgang Petersen | Writer: Wolfgang Petersen, Herman Weigel | Stars: Noah Hathaway, Barret Oliver, Tami Stronach | Release Date: April 6, 1984 | Review: IGN's The NeverEnding Story review | Where to watch: Rentable on most platforms
"The NeverEnding Story" features Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon,' who may not be the central character but is undeniably memorable. Falkor aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing, making him an indispensable part of the narrative and a beloved figure in the film.
Pete’s Dragon (2016)
Image credit: Walt Disney StudiosDirector: David Lowery | Writer: David Lowery, Toby Halbrooks | Stars: Oakes Fegley, Bryce Dallas Howard, Wes Bentley | Release Date: August 8, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms
The 2016 version of "Pete’s Dragon" is a heartwarming remake of the 1977 original. It tells the story of Elliott (Oakes Fegley), an orphan who befriends a camouflaged dragon named Pete after a tragic car crash in the forest. The film blends elements reminiscent of "Tarzan" and "The Iron Giant," creating a touching narrative that resonates well.
Eragon (2006)
Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: Stefan Fangmeier | Writer: Peter Buchman | Stars: Jeremy Irons, Robert Carlyle, Ed Speleers | Release Date: December 16, 2006 | Review: IGN's Eragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms
"Eragon" is adapted from the popular young adult book series and is predominantly about dragons. The film follows a young farm boy, Eragon (Ed Speleers), who discovers a dragon egg, leading to a thrilling adventure of good versus evil alongside his dragon, Saphira. While the movie offers exciting dragon action, it's recommended to experience the books separately.
Dragonslayer (1981)
Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: Matthew Robbins | Writer: Hal Barwood, Matthew Robbins | Stars: Peter MacNicol, Caitlin Clarke, Ralph Richardson | Release Date: June 26, 1981 | Where to watch: Kanopy, Hoopla, Paramount+ Apple TV, or rentable on other platforms
Despite its dated visual effects and acting, "Dragonslayer" is a classic fantasy adventure that dragon movie enthusiasts will appreciate. The story follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) who must slay a dragon to save a kingdom, showcasing bold and creative storytelling for its time.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
Image credit: Warner Bros. PicturesDirector: Peter Jackson | Writer: Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Peter Jackson, Guillermo del Toro | Stars: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage | Release Date: December 13, 2013 | Review: IGN's The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug review | Where to Watch: Max, or rentable on other platforms
"The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" is the second installment in the Hobbit trilogy, set in J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle Earth. The film follows Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions as they attempt to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. Unique to our list, this movie features the dragon's name in its title, embodying the classic dragon traits of greed and territoriality.
For a complete viewing experience, see our guide on watching the Lord of the Rings movies in order.
Reign of Fire (2002)
Image credit: Buena Vista PicturesDirector: Rob Bowman | Writer: Gregg Chabot, Kevin Peterka, Matt Greenberg | Stars: Matthew McConaughey, Christian Bale, Izabella Scorupco | Release Date: July 12, 2002 | Review: IGN's Reign of Fire review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon or other platforms
"Reign of Fire" stands out as a thrilling action movie set in a modern world devastated by dragons. The story begins when a dragon is unearthed in a deep mine in 2020 England, leading to a new era of survival against these formidable creatures. The film's strong cast, including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, delivers compelling performances alongside its original concept and fitting effects.
Dragonheart (1996)
Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: Rob Cohen | Writer: Charles Edward Pogue, Patrick Read Johnson | Stars: Dennis Quaid, Sean Connery, David Thewlis | Release Date: May 31, 1996 | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and other platforms
"Dragonheart" offers a heartfelt and slightly cheesy narrative about a knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), who forms an unlikely alliance with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to overthrow an evil king. The film's charm lies in the sophisticated and patient nature of Draco, as well as the buddy-cop dynamic between him and Bowen.
How to Train your Dragon (2010)
Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: Chris Sanders, Dean DeBlois | Writer: Will Davies, Chris Sanders, Dean DeBlois | Stars: Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson | Release Date: March 21, 2010 | Review: IGN's How to Train Your Dragon review | Where to watch: Stream on Max, rent on Amazon Prime Video and other platforms
Topping our list is "How to Train Your Dragon," an animated gem that masterfully blends coming-of-age themes with fantasy. The story centers on Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), who befriends a rare dragon, leading to a transformative journey that challenges the traditions of his Viking community. Rich in dragon lore and diverse dragon species, this film is not only a standout in its genre but also a beloved animated classic.
We're excited about the upcoming live-action adaptation of "How to Train Your Dragon," set to release in June, which might just claim a spot on this list.
And those are our top 10 picks for the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons captivate us in many forms, and we believe they are truly magnificent creatures. If your favorite dragon movie didn't make the list, let us know in the comments.
For more cinematic adventures, explore our guide to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.
