Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy, captivating audiences across various cultures. Despite the diversity in their depictions, dragons are universally recognized as large, serpent-like creatures symbolizing destruction, power, and often profound wisdom. This fascination with dragons has led to their inclusion in numerous games, shows, plays, and movies, though films explicitly centered around dragons are less common than one might expect. Some of the movies on our list feature dragons prominently, even if they aren't the sole focus of the narrative.

Explore our curated selection of the top dragon movies of all time, each bringing unique interpretations and stories to the screen.

Top Dragon Movies of All Time

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10. Maleficent (2014)

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

Our list begins with Maleficent, Disney's fresh take on the iconic villain from Sleeping Beauty. In this reimagining, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge on the kingdom, leading to the curse on Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning). Though Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon, her magic allows her to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon, adding a thrilling element to the climax of the film.

9. Spirited Away (2001)

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, a masterpiece from Hayao Miyazaki, incorporates a dragon in a significant yet not central role. The story follows Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase in English and Rumi Hiiragi in Japanese) as she navigates a magical world to rescue her parents. The dragon, a representation of Japanese folklore, plays a crucial part in her journey and personal growth.

For more enchanting tales, check out our list of the best Studio Ghibli movies.

8. The NeverEnding Story (1984)

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 introduces us to Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon,' who, though not the protagonist, plays a vital role in Atreyu's (Noah Hathaway) quest to save Fantasia. Falkor's unique charm and essential aid to Atreyu have made him an unforgettable part of this beloved film.

7. Pete’s Dragon (2016)

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

Pete's Dragon is a touching story of friendship between a boy, Pete (Oakes Fegley), and a camouflaged dragon named Elliott. This heartwarming tale, a remake of the 1977 original, blends elements of adventure and emotional bonding, making it a standout in the dragon movie genre.

6. Eragon (2006)

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 is a film adaptation of the popular young adult novel, focusing on the adventures of a farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg. With his dragon companion, Saphira, Eragon embarks on a thrilling journey of heroism and magic, making it a must-watch for dragon enthusiasts.

5. Dragonslayer (1981)

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 effects, Dragonslayer remains a cherished classic in fantasy cinema. The story follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) tasked with slaying a dragon to save a kingdom, offering a nostalgic and adventurous watch.

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

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

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug is a thrilling continuation of the Middle Earth saga, with the dragon Smaug (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch) taking center stage. As Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and the Dwarves venture to reclaim Erebor, Smaug's presence adds tension and excitement to this epic tale.

For a complete viewing experience, see our guide on watching Lord of the Rings movies in order.

3. Reign of Fire (2002)

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 stands out as an action-packed dragon movie set in a modern world. When dragons are awakened and begin to dominate the earth, a group led by Quinn (Christian Bale) and Denton (Matthew McConaughey) fight to survive and reclaim their future.

2. Dragonheart (1996)

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 heartwarming and humorous take on the dragon genre. A knight (Dennis Quaid) forms an unlikely alliance with a dragon named Draco (voiced by Sean Connery) to overthrow a tyrant. Their unique bond and witty exchanges make this film a delightful watch.

1. How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

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 beautifully crafted animated film that follows Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) as he befriends a rare dragon, Toothless. This tale of friendship and discovery not only showcases a variety of dragons but also delivers a compelling story that resonates with audiences of all ages.

We eagerly anticipate the live-action How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, which may potentially claim a spot on this list.

What's the best dragon movie of all time? -----------------------------------------

How to Train Your DragonDragonheartEragonMaleficentSpirited AwayThe NeverEnding StoryPete's Dragon (2016)DragonslayerThe Hobbit: The Desolation of SmaugReign of FireSomething else (let us know in the comments!)

And that concludes our selection of the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons, in their many forms, continue to enchant and inspire. If your favorite dragon movie didn't make the cut, share it with us in the comments.

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