Top 30 Most Underrated Fantasy Movies of All Time

#30: Time Bandits (1981)

The first of Terry Gilliams Trilogy of Imagination, co-written by Michael Palin, Time Bandits is an absurdist family fantasy film and a firm favourite with eighties kids. It got a shiny new reboot in 2024, but its hard to top the nostalgia of the original. Kevin is an ordinary kid with a passion for ancient history, whisked off on an adventure by a thieving band of time-travelling little people. On the journey, hes thrown into the path of John Cleeses Robin Hood, Ian Holms Napoleon, and even Agamemnon, as played by Sean Connery. Its Bill & Ted meets British humour, surreal, satirical, and surprisingly dark at times. But you just have to go with it.

#29: The Flight of Dragons (1982)

The animation style is very of its time, but theres no denying that Rankin/Bass productions made some ambitious movies. This epic tale of magic and technology flew straight to video back in 1982, but its fondly remembered by its original fans - and for good reason. The film is loosely based on Peter Dickinsons 1979 book The Flight of Dragons combined with the Gordon R. Dickson novel The Dragon and the George. Although aimed at kids, there are big themes at play and some dramatic and complex storytelling. The movie also boasts an impressive voice cast, including James Earl Jones and James Gregory.

#28: The Company of Wolves (1984)

This fairytale horror, based on Angela Carters reworking of Little Red Riding Hood, is just as creative and disturbing as you might expect. The screenplay incorporates elements from other tales in her book The Bloody Chamber, and was co-written by Carter herself. For a movie with a low budget, a lot of dream sequences, and plenty of Freudian symbolism, The Company of Wolves was surprisingly well-received. Its still managed to slide into obscurity, but it shouldnt stay there. Despite the Hammer horror visuals, the film is stylish and atmospheric. Angela Lansbury, as the grandmother, is fantastic as ever, and Sarah Patterson, as Red Riding Hood, shines in her film debut.

#27: The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008)

In an era of long-running sci-fi and fantasy franchises based on best-selling books, The Spiderwick Chronicles was a standalone adventure that slipped under the radar. Adapted from a series by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black, it stars Freddie Highmore in the dual role of teens Jared and Simon, who move into a creepy old house following their parents divorce. Here, alongside their sister Mallory, they discover a secret world of magical creatures, both good and evil. Spiderwick is a whimsical yet dark tale that feels like a throwback to a golden age of family films. With just enough scares for the kids and engaging performances from the cast, we think its definitely worth a watch.

#26: The Fall (2006)

A passion project for the director, Tarsem, The Fall is an original fantasy adventure concerned with the magic of storytelling. Lee Pace plays an injured stuntman, confined to a hospital bed and thinking of ending it all. That is, until he meets a young girl and fellow patient, telling her an epic tale. Shot on location in twenty-four different countries, the films stunning cinematography is indicative of its vision. The movie is ambitious and some might say, indulgent, but theres a real emotional core there too. Six-year-old Romanian actress Catinca Untaru plays Alexandria, and much of her dialogue was improvised. The interactions between her character and Paces stuntman are genuinely moving. Worth a watch.

#25: Peter Pan (2003)

There have been multiple reimaginings of J. M. Barries Peter Pan, but when compared to Hook or the Disney animated classic, the 2003 version is all but forgotten. Which is a shame, as its pretty good. Does this movie bring anything new or original to the story? Not particularly. But its a solid adaptation, with a great cast, a stunning soundtrack, and a cosy, Christmassy feel. Plus, it looks gorgeous. Jeremy Sumpter is a charismatic Peter. Wendy and the Lost Boys are perfectly cast as well, but the real star of the show is Jason Isaacs Captain Hook. Isaacs, who also plays Mr. Darling, channels the pantomime baddie vibes but also brings genuine pathos to the role. His Hook is one of our favorite portrayals.

#24: Big Fish (2003)

Tim Burtons American fantasy fable received mixed reviews back in 2003, despite collecting a handful of award nominations. The film has a strong cult following and a respectable reputation, but we still think it deserves more love. Based on the book by Daniel Wallace, the movies starry cast includes Ewan McGregor, Helena Bonham Carter, and even a young Miley Cyrus. Big Fish is the story of a father and son, told through flashbacks and fairy-tale vignettes, swapping between genres and never failing to surprise. Its magical realism at its most unapologetic - surreal, colourful, and full of imaginative twists. The film more than lives up to its Southern Gothic aesthetic, and that daffodil scene is pure cinema.

#23: The Secret of NIMH (1982)

Don Bluths feature film directorial debut may have been overshadowed by the movies that came later, but wed argue that The Secret of NIMH is still one of the directors best. Loosely adapted from the childrens classic Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH, this dark, captivating adventure has an emotional maturity and intensity that sets it apart. The traditional hand-drawn animation is a feast for the eyes, and Jerry Goldsmiths score ramps up the atmosphere. The voice cast also includes acting stalwarts, including Elizabeth Hartman and Derek Jacobi. Uniquely magical and just a little bit scary, eighties animated movies really hit different.

#22: Willow (1988)

Willow has a very dedicated cult following - and a short-lived Disney+ reboot. So, were not sure we can even call it underrated at this point. But were going to, because it deserves to be celebrated in the mainstream. Back in 1988, critics enjoyed Warwick Davis performance and the special effects, but lambasted the movie as unoriginal. It has since been celebrated as an underrated high fantasy gem, with a lot of heart and a great sense of fun. Conceived by George Lucas and directed by Ron Howard, Willow is a classic heros journey that hits all the fantasy tropes - but after all, tropes are there for a reason. Is it just nostalgia, or is this movie unironically great?

#21: Return to Oz (1985)

What possessed Disney to put out this incredibly sinister sequel will forever remain a mystery, but were glad they went so off-brand, because Return to Oz is nothing if not memorable. The movie gets off to a bizarre and terrifying start, with a post-Oz Dorothy being hauled off to a sanatorium for electroshock therapy. Later, she wakes up in a much more frightening Oz than we remember, where the evil Princess Mombi reigns supreme and the nightmarish Wheelers roam the streets. Even Dorothys friends are vaguely unnerving. Understandably, Return to Oz was a flop, but putting childhood trauma aside, it was also dazzlingly different and faithful in tone to the original Oz books.

#20: Dragonheart (1996)

While the golden era of fantasy films could arguably be the 1960s, 70s, or 80s, the 1990s werent exactly bereft of fantasy fare. Its Sean Connery's work as the voice of Draco the Dragon thats perhaps best remembered in 1996s Dragonheart. Yet the film also does a great job at both celebrating  and commenting upon classic fantasy tropes. This is a world similar to the dying days of the old west, where dragons are becoming extinct and their symbolic meaning is in the transitional period of becoming legend. Theres a pleasant amount of pathos here as a result, making Dragonheart recommended viewing for fans who felt fantasy films mightve peaked in the 80s.

#19: Ladyhawke (1985)

The landscape of 1980s fantasy films is littered with quality gems, yet Ladyhawke still stands out as a somewhat idiosyncratic entry. The 1985 film has a number of things going for it, including quality casting in the form of Matthew Broderick, Rutger Hauer, and Michelle Pfeiffer. Additionally, Andrew Powells score sounds inspired and unique today, despite being critically scorned during the films initial release. Ladyhawke feels like a fantasy movie out-of-time thanks to Powells blending of synthesized, progressive rock and traditionally rousing orchestral music. This, combined with the films wonderful production design and solid cinematography, practically demands a positive reappraisal in the modern day.

#18: Krull (1983)

Viewers of a certain age will likely possess fond memories of watching Krull back in the mid-80s, probably on home video or during any of its cable airings. The film was a blend of science fiction and fantasy tropes, and also possessed one of the coolest weapons ever committed to a fantasy film: the Glaive. The production design of Krull gave it an expansive, lived-in feel, while the cast of Lysette Anthony, Freddie Jones and Kenneth Marshall all feel game to deliver the goods. Fantasy was a big deal in the aftermath of 1982s Conan the Barbarian, and Krull certainly fits snugly within this archetype.

#17: Solomon Kane (2009)

Writer Robert E. Howard has been lauded over the years for his creation of Conan the Cimmerian. Yet the sword and sorcery hero isnt the only Howard character to receive the big screen treatment. James Purefoy did a wonderful job at depicting Howards dour Puritan hero Solomon Kane on film. The adaptation presents a dark and dangerous world of evil, and Kane feels like the perfect choice to combat this infestation at every turn. The violence here feels palpable, as if it can occur at any moment, and the resulting action is executed with visceral weight and visual flair. Solomon Kane may just be the best late-2000s fantasy movie youve never seen.

#16: Conan the Destroyer (1984)

Opinions continue to be largely split over 1984s Conan the Destroyer, even decades after its initial release. This is due primarily to the films comparably lighter tone and tamer violence, at least compared to its 1982 predecessor. The studio and producers thought the changes would increase the money-making potential of the sequel. But theres still a lot to like about the film today, too, from Basil Poledouris magnificent score to Grace Jones over-the-top performance as Zula. Arnold Schwarzenegger, in the meantime, still shines as Conan, and the film more than delivers the goods in terms of exciting fantasy action.

#15: The Lord of the Rings (1978)

A titan of the animation industry, Ralph Bakshi has a cornucopia of transgressive classics to his name. His adaptation of The Lord of the Rings, however, remains a crowning achievement for a man with a truly enviable resume. This is despite the fact that this adaptation sizes down J.R.R. Tolkiens original source material and essentially stops at Helms Deep. What Bakshis The Lord of the Rings does, however, is combine revolutionary rotoscoping effects with storytelling that doesnt dilute the scale at hand. If the Rankin/Bass Tolkien adaptations are perfect for younger kids, then Bakshis The Lord of the Rings is a welcome addition for both adults and children to explore Middle Earth.

#14: The Beastmaster (1982)

Conan the Barbarian wasnt the only would-be fantasy classic released in 1982. Director Don Coscarelli was hot on the heels of his 1979 film Phantasm when production began on what would become The Beastmaster. Coscarellis film would go on to become a seemingly omnipresent feature during the early days of HBO. It starred Marc Singer as the titular, animal-whispering hero. The film possesses a left-of-center feel that seems to permeate all of Coscarellis work, from the costume designs and special effects to the wonderful animal actors. Co-stars John Amos, Rip Torn, and Tanya Roberts also bring some star power to the material, burning The Beastmaster into the memories of everyone who watched this epic on a loop growing up.

#13: Excalibur (1981)

Different audiences might desire different things from their fantasy films. Sometimes, were in the mood for some lighthearted fun. Other times we want a movie to make us think. John Boormans Excalibur is one of those hard fantasy films that doesnt hold its audiences hand for a moment. Instead, the filmmakers notable independent streak comes to a head with a film that adapts the Arthurian legend in a unique and unrivaled manner. Excalibur isnt a pretty version of King Arthur. Instead, this is a world of treachery, subterfuge, and violence, where nothing is quite as it seems. The production design captures true hardship and misery of living under difficult conditions, yet Excalibur remains a satisfying joy to watch.

#12: Dragonslayer (1981)

There have been a lot of cinematic representations of dragons over the years, but perhaps none of them have equaled the achievement of Dragonslayer from 1981. The special effects from the George Lucas-founded Industrial Light and Magic have held up remarkably well. The creature, Vermithrax Pejorative, has even been referenced as an influence on Guillermo del Toro and George R. R. Martin. Dragonslayer isnt just about the monster, however, since the performances of Peter MacNicol, Caitlin Clarke and Ralph Richardson feel just as essential to the films success. Dont think for a second that Dragonslayer is just an eighties movie. This could be one of the truly great fantasy movies of all time, full stop.

#11: The Fountain (2006)

There is a lot going on with this 2006 film from director Darren Aronofsky. The Fountain inserts a lot of moving parts within its narrative, from expansive fantasy tropes to elements of romance, drama, and science fiction. The Fountain utilizes all of this to discuss themes of destiny and love throughout the ages. Hugh Jackman and Rachel Weisz work wonders together, and The Fountain highlights their chemistry and natural talents as actors. Meanwhile, the cinematography is gorgeous, the score evocative, and Aronofskys direction feels measured and secure. The Fountain deserves to be seen.

#10: Trollhunter (2010)

World mythology is a fascinating subject, and theres a bevy of historical legends just begging for a proper fantasy adaptation. Trollhunter from 2010 did a great job at updating Norwegian folklore for a modern audience. The film added a dollop of traditional horror and some found-footage cinematography, making the events of the film feel vital and nerve wracking. The CGI-generated trolls honestly look pretty great, and the film as a whole balances fantasy film tradition with a clever script and engaging characters. Trollhunter is an all-around win. Definitely dont miss this one.

#9: The Gate (1987)

The worlds of science fiction, fantasy, and horror have long been intertwined. How else could you categorize the genre film centerpiece from 1987, The Gate? Director Tibor Takács and screenwriter Michael Nankin helped create a world thats served as an entry point for generations of kids seeking to dip their toes into more adult fare. The Gate gives the viewers fantastical creatures, a legitimately creepy occult atmosphere, and likable protagonists, anchored by a young Stephen Dorff. The direction keeps things moving along at a brisk pace, and the special effects still capture our imaginations to this day.

#8: The Witches (1990)

Its dizzying to think of all the creativity involved in getting this film off the ground. For starters, The Witches is based on a novel by Roald Dahl. Elsewhere, the mighty team of Jim Henson brought the groundbreaking special effects work to life. Finally, Nicolas Roeg known for his cryptic, stylized films including Dont Look Now, Performance, and The Man Who Fell to Earth  joined as director. All of these moving parts combine to make The Witches feel less like a fairy tale and more a cautionary one, with a dark atmosphere and some mature themes.

#7: The Adventures of Baron Munchausen (1988)

Dont let the fact that this Terry Gilliam film was a massive box office bomb deter you. The Adventures of Baron Munchausen is truly one of a kind. Then again, isnt just about every film from the maverick director one of a kind? The former Monty Python member possesses an incalculable imagination and an unfettered approach to cinema and the world. As a result, The Adventures of Baron Munchausen does just what it says on the tin it brings the titular Barons tall tales to the silver screen. That includes fantastical creatures and swashbuckling high adventure and sweeping romance. It even has an uncredited appearance from Robin Williams!

#6: The Last Unicorn (1982)

How important is film music to you? Do you remember a theme song, long after its melodies have faded away? For many, the titular song in The Last Unicorn continues to echo, years after this animated feature hit screens back in 1982. The rock group America still performs the somewhat haunting ballad in concert. Beyond this, however, The Last Unicorn remains a treasure of early 80s animation. A lot of this is due to the director-producer team of Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass. The adaptation of Peter S. Beagles 1968 novel lives on today as an offbeat allegory of love, loss, and the passage of time.

#5: Stardust (2007)

Director Matthew Vaughn may be better known for high-octane action fare like Layer Cake, Kick-Ass, and the Kingsman franchise, but dont sleep on this fantasy tale from 2007. Stardust is a wonderful adventure with an impressive cast including Charlie Cox, Claire Danes, Ricky Gervais, Sienna Miller, Peter OToole, Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer and Ian McKellen. Stardust feels like a love letter to the fantasy fairy tales of our youth, and is helmed with a steady hand that ensures this feeling never leaves the film. With its charming romance and humor, the movie is a shining example of an underrated fantasy film.

#4: Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971)

Its truly a shame that Bedknobs and Broomsticks isnt as well-remembered as its more famous Disney cousin, Mary Poppins. Still, one of the wonderful things about film is how efforts such as these can be rediscovered by different generations, who continue to take in all of the magic at hand. Bedknobs and Broomsticks is the sort of whimsical fantasy that screams classic Disney, and boasts a triumphant headline performance by Angela Lansbury. Animation collides with live action in that inimitable Disney way, as Bedknobs and Broomsticks captures our hearts and leads us back to our childhoods.

#3: Legend (1985)

In Ridley Scotts brilliant 1985 fantasy film, there may never be another dawn. The tagline is quite telling, because Scotts vision for Legend is unapologetically dark in places. The film features Tim Curry as Darkness, perhaps the best depiction of a devil ever committed to screen. Legend doesnt stop there with the fantastical creatures, either, since both the goblin Blix and witchy Meg Mucklebones still haunt our dreams years later. Plus, Tangerine Dreams amazing electronic score combines with a soundtrack of pop hits from artists like Bryan Ferry to create pure, unadulterated movie magic. Wed definitely count this one as legendary.

#2: The Black Cauldron (1985)

Tragically, not every film is released at the proper time, or receives the attention it deserves. The production of Disneys The Black Cauldron was notoriously troubled. It almost sunk the companys entire animation department for good. Thankfully, new generations of movie watchers have since reappraised the film, with its dark tone and gorgeous animation. Believe it or not, this thing was actually conceived to be darker than how it ended up, and we honestly might wish we lived in a universe where that was a thing. At least we can rest easy knowing that the Horned King remains one of the most harrowing Disney villains, full stop.

#1: The Dark Crystal (1982)

The career of Jim Henson has been rightfully praised for all of the joy it brought to families. That said, its also important to note that Hensons creations werent always just for kids. Whether it was the adult jokes that populated the puppet spots on early episodes of Saturday Night Live or this 1982 classic, Jim Hensons puppetry could achieve just about anything. The Dark Crystal in particular presents high fantasy with some legitimately terrifying villains in the form of the Skeksis, a group of evil, birdlike reptilians. Its not all bleak, however, since The Dark Crystal also showed audiences the beauty of Hensons imagination, and the glory of fantasy filmmaking at an elite level.

Whats your favourite underrated fantasy film? Let us know in the comments!