Top 10 Dragon Films That Captivate Audiences

Dragons, iconic figures in global mythology and fantasy, embody power, destruction, and often profound wisdom. These serpent-like creatures appear in various cultural tales, inspiring countless adaptations across games, series, theater, and cinema.

The term “dragon movie” typically suggests a film focused on dragons, yet their cinematic presence is rarer than expected. Some films on this list feature dragons prominently but may not center solely on them.

Explore our selection of the finest dragon films ever made.

Greatest Dragon Films Ever

10. Maleficent (2014)

Kicking off with a film where dragons play a subtle role, Maleficent reimagines Disney’s classic 1959 villain from Sleeping Beauty. Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) falls victim to Maleficent’s (Angelina Jolie) curse, a retaliation for past betrayals. Unlike the original, Maleficent doesn’t transform into a dragon but uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon in the film’s climax.

9. Spirited Away (2001)

In Spirited Away, dragons take a supporting role in Hayao Miyazaki’s enchanting exploration of Japanese mythology. Chihiro (Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) navigates a mystical realm to save her parents from a pig-transformation curse. The white dragon, inspired by Japanese folklore, isn’t the focal point but plays a crucial role in the story and Chihiro’s growth.

Check out our list of top Studio Ghibli films for similar adventures.

8. The NeverEnding Story (1984)

Though not the centerpiece, Falkor the ‘Luck Dragon’ in The NeverEnding Story is unforgettable. This unique dragon aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Despite limited screen time, Falkor’s charm and luck make him a standout, contributing significantly to the film’s iconic status.

7. Pete’s Dragon (2016)

A reimagining of the 1977 classic, Pete’s Dragon tells a touching story of a boy and his dragon friend. Orphaned after a forest car crash, Elliott (Oakes Fegley) bonds with a camouflaged dragon named Pete. Blending elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, this heartfelt film delivers a surprisingly effective narrative.

6. Eragon (2006)

Adapted from the beloved young adult novel, Eragon centers on dragons in a thrilling tale. A farm boy, Eragon (Ed Speleers), discovers a dragon egg in Alagaesia, sparking an epic battle of good versus evil alongside his dragon, Saphira. Packed with dragon action, this film is best enjoyed without prior book expectations.

5. Dragonslayer (1981)

Despite dated effects and modest performances, Dragonslayer remains a captivating fantasy adventure. A young wizard’s apprentice (Peter MacNicol) must slay a dragon to free a kingdom after his master’s demise. As the oldest film here, its bold creativity elevates it beyond its era’s limitations.

4. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

The second chapter of The Hobbit trilogy, The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug, delivers a thrilling Middle Earth adventure. Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his dwarf companions face the cunning dragon Smaug to reclaim Erebor. Named after its iconic dragon, this film showcases Smaug’s greed and territorial nature.

Discover our guide to watching Lord of the Rings films in order.

3. Reign of Fire (2002)

A standout action film, Reign of Fire brings dragons into a modern, post-apocalyptic England. Unearthed from a deep mine, a dragon wreaks havoc, ushering in a new era of survival. With stellar performances from Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this film blends originality with gripping effects.

2. Dragonheart (1996)

Dragonheart, though sentimental, elevates the dragon genre with a stellar cast. A knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), allies with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to defeat a tyrant king. Their buddy-cop dynamic and Draco’s refined nature create a charming, heartfelt adventure.

1. How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

A delightful and witty animated tale, How to Train Your Dragon blends coming-of-age themes with fantasy. Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), a young Viking, befriends a rare dragon, challenging his village’s dragon-hunting traditions. Rich with diverse dragon lore, this film shines as both a dragon epic and a stellar animated classic.

Anticipation builds for the live-action How to Train Your Dragon, set for release in June, which may claim a spot on this list.

Here are our top 10 dragon films! Dragons take many forms, but their allure is undeniable. Did we miss your favorite? Share it in the comments.

For more cinematic adventures, explore our guides to the best shark movies or how to watch the Godzilla films in order.