Dragons have long captivated human imagination, appearing as powerful, often wise, and sometimes destructive beings in the mythologies and fantasy narratives of cultures worldwide. Though the depiction of dragons varies, they are universally recognized as large, serpent-like creatures. This fascination with dragons has transcended into various forms of media, including games, television shows, plays, and films. However, despite their popularity, there are surprisingly fewer dragon-centric movies than one might expect. Our list includes films that feature dragons prominently, though not all are exclusively about them.
Here, we present our curated selection of the top dragon movies of all time, each offering a unique take on these mythical creatures.
Top Dragon Movies of All Time
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Maleficent (2014)
Image credit: Walt Disney Pictures
Director: 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 reimagining of the villain from the classic "Sleeping Beauty." In this tale, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) curses Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) as revenge. Although Maleficent herself does not transform into a dragon, she magically transforms her companion Diaval into one, making it a worthy entry into our dragon movie collection.
Spirited Away (2001)
Image credit: Studio Ghibli
Director: 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" is a magical journey from Hayao Miyazaki, featuring a white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore. Though not the central focus, this dragon plays a crucial role in Chihiro's (Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) quest to rescue her parents and navigate a world of spirits and enchantments.
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
While not primarily about dragons, "The NeverEnding Story" features Falkor the 'Luck Dragon,' an iconic character who aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia. Falkor's limited screen time doesn't diminish his impact on the film, making him a memorable part of this beloved fantasy.
Pete’s Dragon (2016)
Image credit: Walt Disney Studios
Director: David Lowery | Writer: David Lowery, Toby Halbrooks | Stars: Oakes Fegley, Bryce Dallas Howard, Wes Bentley | Release Date: August 12, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms
"Pete's Dragon" is a heartwarming story of friendship between a boy, Elliott (Oakes Fegley), and a camouflaged dragon named Pete. This remake of the 1977 original blends elements of "Tarzan" and "The Iron Giant," creating a touching narrative that resonates with audiences.
Eragon (2006)
Image credit: 20th Century Fox
Director: Stefan Fangmeier | Writer: Peter Buchman | Stars: Jeremy Irons, Robert Carlyle, Ed Speleers | Release Date: December 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Eragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms
"Eragon" adapts the popular young adult novel series, focusing on a farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg and embarks on an epic adventure with his dragon, Saphira. While the film offers thrilling dragon action, it's recommended to experience it without prior knowledge of the books for the best viewing experience.
Dragonslayer (1981)
Image credit: Paramount Pictures
Director: 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
"Dragonslayer" offers a classic fantasy adventure with a dragon at its heart. Despite its dated effects, the film's bold storytelling and creative choices make it a must-watch for fans of the genre, following a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) as he battles a menacing dragon.
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
Director: 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
In "The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug," Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions face the formidable dragon Smaug in their quest to reclaim Erebor. This film stands out with its detailed portrayal of the dragon Smaug, embodying all the classic traits of a dragon—greed, cunning, and territorial dominance.
For a complete viewing experience, see our guide on watching Lord of the Rings movies in order.
Reign of Fire (2002)
Image credit: Buena Vista Pictures
Director: 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" brings dragons into a modern setting, creating a thrilling action-packed narrative. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where dragons have emerged as the dominant predators, the film features strong performances and innovative storytelling.
Dragonheart (1996)
Image credit: Universal Pictures
Director: 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 heartwarming tale of friendship between a dragonslaying knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), and the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery). This film blends humor and heart, showcasing a dragon with a unique personality and a story that defies typical dragon narratives.
How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
Image credit: Paramount Pictures
Director: Chris Sanders, Dean DeBlois | Writer: Will Davies, Chris Sanders, Dean DeBlois | Stars: Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson | Release Date: March 26, 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 masterpiece that blends coming-of-age themes with fantastical elements. Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) forms an unlikely bond with a rare dragon, leading to a transformative journey that challenges the traditions of his Viking community. This film excels with its rich dragon lore and emotional depth, making it a standout in the genre.
We eagerly anticipate the upcoming live-action adaptation of "How to Train Your Dragon," set to release in June, which might even surpass the original on our list.
And that's our selection of the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons, in all their varied forms, continue to enchant and inspire us. Have we missed your favorite dragon film? Share your thoughts in the comments.
For more thrilling cinematic experiences, explore our guides to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.
