100 years of wonder from wizards to dragons: Ranking the 10 best fantasy movies of the last century

Fantasy films transport the audience to worlds of innovation, daring, and magic. Some movies from the 20th century stand out solely for their beautiful storylines, emotional resonance, and striking visuals.

Ranging across the century, these are the 10 ten fantasy films that have won the hearts of various generations, altered the genre and had a long-lasting impact.

Disclaimer: This article is based solely on the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.

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The 10 best fantasy movies of the last century

10. Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

Pan's Labyrinth is a dark fantasy movie, co-produced and directed by Guillermo del Toro. It was released on October 11, 2006. The plot centers on Ofelia, a young girl who has encountered a faun in a hidden maze. In the fairytale, she is then assigned three difficult tasks. She needs to complete the tasks to prove she is a princess. Here, fairytale magic coexists with the horrors of reality.

The critics refer to the film as a sort of Alice in Wonderland for grown-up viewers. It won multiple awards and widespread praise at Cannes. It's a film that expertly blends cruelty with imagination. Pan's Labyrinth reveals how terrifying things may be in reality, much like the monsters we imagine. This is a reason it features in our list of the best fantasy movies ever made.

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9. Big (1988)

Big is a fantasy comedy drama movie starring Tom Hanks as Josh Baskin. Penny Marshall directed the film, which was released on June 3, 1988. In this film, a 13-year-old boy abruptly grows big. Tom Hanks does an excellent job playing as the protagonist Josh. His portrayal transforms the plot into something pleasant. It's funny and heartwarming as he learns about love, employment, and life events after growing big.

With over $150 million in revenue, the movie was a big success. It has a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film is witty and endearing. It treats adult life and childhood desires extremely gently. It is still regarded as one of the best fantasy films ever made due to its creativity and beauty.

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8. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

Peter Jackson's fantasy epic is the first film of The Lord of the Rings trilogy.

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring debuted at Odeon Leicester Square in London on December 10, 2001, and was released on December 19. The movie begins the adventure to retrieve the One Ring. Frodo, a young hobbit, and eight of his friends go on a rescue mission in Middle-earth.

The film is massive, with magnificent characters and a tale of deep friendships. Elijah Wood, Viggo Mortensen, and Ian McKellen bring their roles to life. The Fellowship of the Ring obtained positive reviews, with many praising the film's stunning visual effects, soundtrack, and audience storytelling. It won four Oscars, besides four BAFTAs, and a Hugo Award.

Many fans feel it the best fantasy movie ever made. It is at the same time an adventure and an emotional story of hope. The initial portion turned out to be one of the film's highlights.

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7. Star Wars: A New Hope (1977)

Star Wars: A New Hope is among the best fantasy movies of any period. It is about Luke Skywalker, who goes along with Han Solo, Obi-Wan, and Princess Leia to battle the evil Empire. When the film was released, critics were astonished. Roger Ebert praised the tale and the images, calling it an "out-of-body experience".

The adventure of the heroes and the magic of the Force are eternal fan favourites. Due to its success, it became a cultural icon and set a higher standard than any previous fantasy film.

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6. The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003)

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King is among the most accomplished fantasy movies, marking a brilliant conclusion to the LOTR trilogy. In the film, heroes fight valiantly to destroy the One Ring and save Middle-earth. The film won 11 Oscars, and became the first fantasy film to win an Academy Award in the category of Best Picture. It has won several other prizes at the Golden Globes, the BAFTAs, and the Saturn Awards.

The Return of the King is acclaimed by fans and critics alike for its epic scale, touching story and strong imagery. The film showed that a fantasy film can have a serious context, too, and at the same time be adored by the masses. The films marks a high point in the history of cinematography.

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5. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (2011)

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 is a remarkable fantasy movie that acts as a strong finale for the saga. The film narrates the adventure as Harry, Ron, and Hermione confront Voldemort in the last battle at Hogwarts. Critics applauded the film's emotion and action. It scored 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, which described it as,

"Thrilling, powerfully acted, and visually dazzling."

The characters appear genuine despite the fantasy setting, and the action is mounted on a massive scale. In addition to Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint gives it their all as Harry, Hermione, and Ron. The film contains profound emotions and heroic magic. Numerous fans feel that it restored the magic of the franchise and had a satisfying conclusion.

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4. Spirited Away (2001)

Spirited Away is an animated Japanese fantasy movie directed and written by Hayao Miyazaki. The animated picture was created by Studio Ghibli and produced by Toshio Suzuki. It is one of the best fantasy films of all time. It tells the story of Chihiro, a tiny girl who ends up in the spirits' bath-house. After her parents are turned into pigs, she must be brave enough to rescue them and return home. It is a movie packed with dreamy, quiet moments.

The film received an Oscar for Best Animated Feature and was one of the highest-grossing Japanese films for 19 years. Its art and emotion are adored by critics, and it changed how people view fantasy movies and animation worldwide. These qualities help it remain an evergreen masterpiece in the genre.

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3. The Princess Bride (1987)

The Princess Bride is a witty story hidden in an enjoyable fairytale. A grandfather tells his granddaughter the story, and they find out about Buttercup and Westley's experiences. Westley leaves to obtain funds to marry her. A few years later, Buttercup is set to marry a prince, but three strangers abduct her. A figure in a mask follows them.

The film contains several famous quotes, but it also has heart and humor. The narrative is playful and at the same time expressive in its feelings. Inigo Montoya tells a powerful story of suffering as he seeks vengeance, with scenes of unparalleled strength.

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2. A Monster Calls (2016)

A Monster Calls combines genuine emotions and magic. It traces the life of Conor, a small boy, whose mother is terminally ill. Then a gigantic tree monster (voiced by Liam Neeson) appears.

Critics have praised the film for its emotional richness and it earned an 86% Rotten Tomatoes rating. It was labeled a true tearjerker by the reviewers.

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1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)

The Wizard of Oz is regarded as one of the best musical fantasy movies of the past century. The film directed by Victor Fleming was released in the United States on August 25, 1939.

The movie chronicles Dorothy's journey to the land of Oz. She meets witches and travels home down the Yellow Brick Road with her fellow dearies, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Lion.

The music, color, and narrative of the film have impressed generations, revealing the incredible power of film. Its icons, the ruby slippers and Emerald City, have become part of culture all around the orld . The movie never ages, and even after more than 80 years it continues to astonish and inspire, and influence subsequent films.

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These fantasy films deal with dreams, fears, and imagination that have no boundaries. They mesmerize people with a classical character and the memorable worlds they set up. Each film conveys something unique, whether through adventure, emotion, or magic in the images. They have remained popular throughout the decades, underlining the fact that fantasy is more than an escape. It is a reflection of human striving described in wonderful stories.