Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy, captivating cultures worldwide with their iconic presence. These legendary creatures, often depicted as large and serpent-like, are synonymous with destruction, power, and wisdom. Their allure has been adapted into various forms of media, including games, shows, plays, and movies. When one thinks of a "Dragon Movie," the expectation is a film centered around these majestic beings. However, despite their popularity, dragon-centric movies are fewer than one might expect. Some films on our list feature dragons prominently, though they may not be the sole focus of the narrative.
Explore our curated selection of the top dragon movies of all time, where these mythical creatures take center stage in various captivating stories.
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
Maleficent kicks off our list, offering a unique take on the classic Disney villain from Sleeping Beauty. In this re-imagining, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge but never transforms into a dragon herself. Instead, she uses her magic to turn her companion Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon, near 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 Spirited Away, a dragon plays a significant, though not central, role in this enchanting tale from Hayao Miyazaki. As Chihiro (Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) navigates a mystical world to save her parents, a white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore becomes pivotal to her journey and personal growth.
For more magical films, see 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 focused on dragons, The NeverEnding Story features the unforgettable Falkor the 'Luck Dragon.' Falkor's role may be limited, but his assistance is crucial for Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia, making him one of the film's most iconic elements.
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 touching remake of the 1977 original, Pete’s Dragon tells the story of a boy, Pete (Oakes Fegley), who befriends a camouflaged dragon named Elliott after being orphaned. This heartwarming narrative blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, delivering a compelling and emotionally resonant film.
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
Adapted from the popular young adult series, Eragon follows a farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg and embarks on an epic battle against evil. With multiple dragons and thrilling action, Eragon stands out as a film that fully embraces its dragon-centric theme, though fans are often recommended to watch it 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
Despite its dated effects, Dragonslayer remains a cherished classic in the fantasy genre. The story follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) tasked with slaying a dragon to save a kingdom. Its bold and creative storytelling ensures its place on our list.
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 continuation of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions confront the formidable dragon Smaug to reclaim Erebor. Smaug's cunning and greed are central to the plot, making this film a standout on our list. For more on this epic saga, check out our guide on watching 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 offers a modern twist on the dragon movie genre with its gripping action and compelling narrative. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where dragons have scorched the earth, the film features strong performances and innovative storytelling, making it a must-watch for fans of action-packed dragon films.
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 heartwarming and somewhat cheesy take on the dragon genre. The story follows a knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), who allies with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to defeat an evil king. Their unlikely friendship and witty banter add charm to this beloved film.
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 tops our list as a delightful and innovative animated film. The 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 movie is not only a standout in the dragon genre but also a gem in animated cinema.
We look forward to seeing if the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, will join or even surpass the original on this list.
Dragons captivate us in many forms, and these films celebrate their mystique and power. If your favorite dragon movie didn't make the cut, share it in the comments below!
For more thrilling cinematic experiences, explore our guide to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.
