The 10 Best Dragon Movies of All Time

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy, revered in many cultures around the world. Each culture has its unique depiction of a dragon, yet there's a common understanding that these creatures are large, serpent-like beings known for their power, often associated with destruction, and sometimes revered for their wisdom. These mythical creatures have inspired countless adaptations across games, shows, plays, and movies.

When someone mentions a "Dragon Movie," it typically evokes expectations of a film centered around these majestic creatures. However, despite their popularity in our culture, there aren't as many dragon-centric movies as one might expect. Consequently, our list includes films that feature dragons prominently, even if they're not exclusively about them.

Let's delve into our curated selection of the best dragon movies of all time.

Top Dragon Movies of All Time

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10. Maleficent (2014)

Image credit: Walt Disney PicturesDirector: 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 that's not strictly dragon-focused, Maleficent offers a fresh take on the iconic villain from Disney's 1959 classic, Sleeping Beauty. In this reimagining, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge on the kingdom that betrayed her, leading to the curse on Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning). Although Maleficent doesn't transform into a dragon herself, she magically transforms her loyal companion Diaval into a dragon in a pivotal scene, adding a thrilling dragon element to the narrative.

9. Spirited Away (2001)

Image credit: Studio GhibliDirector: 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 tale from Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away introduces a dragon in a more cameo role, yet it plays a crucial part in the story. As Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase in English and Rumi Hiiragi in Japanese) navigates a mystical world to save her parents from a permanent transformation into pigs, she encounters a white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore. This dragon not only adds to the film's rich tapestry but also becomes integral to Chihiro's journey and personal growth.

For more enchanting films, explore our list of the best Studio Ghibli movies.

8. 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 around dragons, The NeverEnding Story features Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon,' who is too iconic to overlook. Falkor's role, although limited, is vital to the protagonist Atreyu's (Noah Hathaway) quest to save the world of Fantasia from The Nothing. Falkor's presence and assistance are memorable highlights that have made him one of the most beloved elements of the film.

7. Pete’s Dragon (2016)

Image credit: Walt Disney StudiosDirector: 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

This heartwarming remake of the 1977 classic follows the tale of Pete (Oakes Fegley), an orphaned boy who befriends a camouflaged dragon named Elliott in the forest. The film beautifully blends elements reminiscent of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, creating a touching narrative of friendship and discovery. Despite its familiar plot devices, Pete's Dragon stands out as a charming and engaging dragon movie.

6. Eragon (2006)

Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: 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 acclaimed young adult novel series, Eragon brings dragons to the forefront of its story. The film follows a young farm boy named Eragon (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg and embarks on an epic journey to defend his homeland of Alagaesia with his dragon companion, Saphira. While the movie offers thrilling dragon action, fans of the books might find it deviates from the source material.

5. Dragonslayer (1981)

Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: 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 and average acting, Dragonslayer remains a beloved classic in the dragon movie genre. It follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) who takes on the mission to slay a dragon terrorizing a kingdom. As the oldest film on our list, Dragonslayer earns its spot for its bold storytelling and creative approach to fantasy.

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

Image credit: Warner Bros. PicturesDirector: 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 continuation of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and his companions face the formidable dragon Smaug as they attempt to reclaim the Lonely Mountain. Unique among our selections, this film prominently features the dragon in its title and showcases Smaug as the epitome of dragon traits: greedy, clever, and territorial.

For more adventures in Middle Earth, check out our guide on watching the Lord of the Rings movies in order.

3. Reign of Fire (2002)

Image credit: Buena Vista PicturesDirector: 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 context. When a dragon awakens in 2020 England and begins a reign of terror, humanity is thrust into a battle for survival. With a stellar cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this film delivers thrilling dragon encounters and a unique take on the genre.

2. Dragonheart (1996)

Image credit: Universal PicturesDirector: 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 slightly cheesy take on the dragon movie genre. It follows the journey of a dragonslaying knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), who forms an unlikely alliance with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to overthrow an evil king. The film stands out for its endearing chemistry between Bowen and Draco, adding a touch of humor and warmth to the adventure.

1. How to Train your Dragon (2010)

Image credit: Paramount PicturesDirector: 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 delightful blend of coming-of-age and fantasy. The story follows Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), a young Viking who befriends a rare dragon, leading to a transformative journey that challenges the traditions of his people. This film excels with its diverse dragon species and engaging lore, making it not just a great dragon movie, but a beloved animated classic.

We're excited about the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June. It may even surpass the original in our rankings.

And that's our selection of the top dragon movies of all time! Dragons, in their many forms, captivate audiences and bring a sense of wonder to the screen. If your favorite dragon movie didn't make the list, let us know in the comments.

For more thrilling movie experiences, check out our guide to the best shark movies or explore how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.