Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons have captivated our imaginations across cultures and time, often portrayed as mighty, serpentine beings embodying destruction, power, and profound wisdom. These mythical creatures have inspired numerous adaptations in games, shows, plays, and films, yet when we think of "dragon movies," we might be surprised to find fewer than expected. Our list includes films featuring dragons, though not all are solely focused on them. Dive into our selection of the top dragon movies that have left an indelible mark on cinema.

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: May 30, 2014 | Review: IGN's Maleficent review | Where to watch: Stream on TBS, TNT, and truTV, rentable on Amazon and other platforms

Kicking off our list is "Maleficent," a reimagining of Disney's classic "Sleeping Beauty." While not primarily a dragon movie, it features a pivotal dragon transformation. In this tale, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge on the kingdom that betrayed her, putting Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) to sleep. The twist here is that Maleficent doesn't transform into a dragon herself but uses her magic to turn her companion Diaval into one, showcasing the dragon's might towards the film's climax.

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

"Spirited Away" might not be centered on dragons, but its inclusion of a dragon inspired by Japanese folklore adds a layer of depth to this enchanting story. As Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) navigates a magical world to save her parents, the dragon's role becomes crucial to her journey and character development.

For more magical adventures, check out 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

"The NeverEnding Story" features Falkor, the beloved 'Luck Dragon,' who, despite limited screen time, plays a vital role in Atreyu's (Noah Hathaway) quest to save Fantasia. Falkor's charm and importance to the narrative make him one of the most memorable aspects of this classic 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 12, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms

"Pete’s Dragon" is a touching remake of the 1977 original, telling the story of young Pete (Oakes Fegley) who, after a tragic accident, befriends a camouflaged dragon named Elliott. This heartwarming tale blends elements of "Tarzan" and "The Iron Giant," creating a unique and engaging narrative.

6. Eragon (2006)

Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: Stefan Fangmeier | Writer: Peter Buchman | Stars: Jeremy Irons, Robert Carlyle, Ed Speleers | Release Date: December 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Eragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms

"Eragon" is directly centered around dragons, drawing from the popular young adult book series. It follows young farm boy Eragon (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg, leading him on an epic journey to save his homeland with his dragon, Saphira. While the film is packed with dragon action, fans might find the books offer a richer experience.

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

"Dragonslayer" may show its age with its visual effects and acting, but it remains a beloved classic in fantasy cinema. The film follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) tasked with slaying a dragon that terrorizes a kingdom, offering a nostalgic yet thrilling adventure.

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

"The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" is a thrilling addition to Tolkien's Middle Earth saga. Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and his companions face the formidable dragon Smaug in their quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain. This film uniquely features the dragon's name in the title, highlighting Smaug's central role and embodying all classic dragon traits.

For the complete journey, see 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 with its modern-day setting and intense action sequences. When dragons emerge from the depths of a mine in England, humanity faces a new era of survival. With a stellar cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this film delivers a gripping dragon-centric narrative.

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" blends action and heart with its tale of a knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), and the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), joining forces against a tyrannical king. This film offers a unique take on dragons, portraying Draco as wise and noble, with a buddy-cop dynamic that adds charm to the narrative.

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 26, 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 with its enchanting story of Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) and his bond with Toothless, a rare dragon. This animated gem explores themes of friendship and acceptance, offering a rich tapestry of dragon lore that captivates audiences of all ages.

We eagerly anticipate the live-action adaptation of "How to Train Your Dragon," set to release in June, which may well join or even surpass the animated version on our list.

And that's our roundup of the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons, in their diverse forms, continue to fascinate and inspire. Is your favorite dragon movie missing? Share your thoughts in the comments.

For more thrilling cinematic experiences, explore our guides on the best shark movies and how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.