Dragons are a captivating element in the tapestry of global mythology and fantasy, embodying themes of destruction, power, and wisdom across various cultures. While each culture's depiction of dragons varies, these majestic creatures are universally recognized as large, serpent-like beings. Dragons have inspired countless adaptations across games, shows, plays, and films, yet when it comes to movies specifically centered on dragons, the selection is surprisingly limited. Consequently, our list includes films that feature dragons prominently, even if they are not exclusively about these mythical creatures.
Discover our curated list of the best dragon movies of all time, each offering a unique take on these legendary beings.
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 homage to the iconic villain from the 1959 classic "Sleeping Beauty." In this reimagined tale, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge by putting Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) to sleep. While Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into a dragon towards the film's climax, making it a fitting, if indirect, dragon movie.
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" by Hayao Miyazaki is a magical journey through Japanese folklore. While dragons are not the main focus, the white dragon Haku plays a crucial role in Chihiro's quest to save her parents from being turned into pigs. This film beautifully integrates dragons into its narrative, making it a must-watch for dragon enthusiasts.
Explore more enchanting films with 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" may not revolve around dragons, but Falkor the 'Luck Dragon' is an unforgettable character. Falkor's role in aiding Atreyu to save Fantasia from The Nothing is pivotal, making this dragon an iconic figure in cinema despite limited screen time.
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
The 2016 remake of "Pete’s Dragon" tells the touching story of a boy, Pete (Oakes Fegley), and his dragon friend Elliott. Set in the forest where Pete is orphaned, this film blends elements of "Tarzan" and "The Iron Giant," creating a heartwarming tale of friendship and adventure.
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
"Eragon," based on the popular young adult book series, follows a young farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg, leading him on a journey to defend his homeland with his dragon, Saphira. This film is a must-see for fans of dragon-centric stories, though it's advised to watch before reading 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
"Dragonslayer" is a classic fantasy adventure that, despite its dated effects, offers a thrilling dragon-centric story. A young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) must confront a dragon to save a kingdom, making it a staple in the genre.
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 journey to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. This film stands out with its titular dragon, embodying the classic attributes of greed, intelligence, and territoriality.
Check out our guide on watching the Lord of the Rings movies in order for more Middle Earth adventures.
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" offers a modern twist on the dragon movie genre, set in a future where dragons have emerged as the dominant predators. With strong performances from Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this film delivers thrilling action and original 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" tells the story of a knight (Dennis Quaid) who forms an unlikely alliance with the last dragon (voiced by Sean Connery) to overthrow a tyrant. This film stands out for its heartfelt narrative and the unique bond between the protagonists.
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
"How to Train Your Dragon" is a delightful animated tale of a young Viking, Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), who befriends a dragon, Toothless. This film stands at the top of our list for its engaging story, diverse dragon lore, and its status as a beloved animated classic.
We look forward to 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.
These are our top picks for the best dragon movies of all time. Dragons are revered in various forms, and we celebrate their presence in cinema. If we've missed your favorite dragon movie, let us know in the comments.
For more themed movie lists, explore our guides to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.
