Dragons have captured the imagination of cultures worldwide, embodying a blend of destruction, power, and wisdom in mythology and fantasy. These serpent-like creatures are a staple in various media, yet true dragon-centric movies are rarer than one might expect. Some films on our list feature dragons prominently, while others may not focus exclusively on them but still offer captivating dragon moments.
Explore our selection of the top dragon movies that have left a mark on cinema.
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: | 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 with a film where dragons play a secondary role, Disney's Maleficent reimagines the iconic villain from Sleeping Beauty. In this tale, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge against those who betrayed her, leading to the enchantment of Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning). While Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon, she magically turns her companion Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon, in the film's climax.
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
In this enchanting film from Hayao Miyazaki, dragons make a memorable cameo within a world steeped in Japanese mythology. Spirited Away follows Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi), who must navigate a realm of spirits to save her parents. A white dragon, integral to the plot and Chihiro's journey, adds a mystical element to this beloved tale.
For more from this acclaimed studio, 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
Though not centered on dragons, The NeverEnding Story features the unforgettable Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon.' Falkor aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing, becoming an iconic and beloved character despite limited screen time. Falkor's presence is a highlight of this classic fantasy adventure.
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 8, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms
A heartwarming tale of friendship, Pete's Dragon follows young Elliott (Oakes Fegley), who, after becoming orphaned, befriends a camouflaged dragon named Pete. This remake of the 1977 original blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, crafting 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 16, 2006 | Review: IGN's Eragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms
Based on the popular young adult novel series, Eragon focuses heavily on dragons. The story follows a farm boy, Eragon (Ed Speleers), who discovers a dragon egg and embarks on an epic journey to defend his homeland with his dragon companion, Saphira. While the film offers thrilling dragon action, it's recommended to watch it before diving into the books.
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
Despite its dated visual effects, Dragonslayer remains a cherished classic among fantasy enthusiasts. The film follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) who must confront a dragon to save a kingdom, showcasing bold storytelling and creative choices that have stood the test of time.
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 this thrilling installment of the Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and his companions venture into the Lonely Mountain to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. This film stands out as the only one on our list to feature a dragon's name in its title, showcasing Smaug's cunning and greed.
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 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 dragon action into a modern setting, offering a gripping narrative of survival. After a dragon is accidentally awakened in 2020 England, humanity faces a new predator. With a talented cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, the film delivers an exciting and original take on the dragon genre.
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 heartfelt and somewhat cheesy tale of an unlikely alliance between a dragonslaying knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), and the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery). Their journey to overthrow an evil king is filled with humor and charm, making this film a beloved entry in the dragon movie canon.
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 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, How to Train Your Dragon is a masterpiece of animation and storytelling. This coming-of-age story follows Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), who befriends a rare dragon, challenging the traditions of his Viking community. With its rich lore and diverse dragon species, this film stands out as a top-tier dragon movie and a cinematic gem.
We anticipate the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, to potentially join or even surpass the original on this list.
These are our top 10 picks for the best dragon movies of all time. Dragons may take various forms, but their allure remains undeniable. If your favorite dragon movie didn't make the cut, share it in the comments below.
For more cinematic adventures, check out our guide to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.
