Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons, with their iconic presence in mythology and fantasy across various cultures, are universally recognized as large, serpentine creatures synonymous with power, destruction, and wisdom. These legendary beings have inspired countless adaptations in games, shows, plays, and movies. When you hear "Dragon Movie," you likely envision a film centered around these majestic creatures. However, despite their popularity, there are fewer dragon-focused movies than one might expect. Some films on our list feature dragons prominently but aren't exclusively about them. Let's dive into our curated selection of the best dragon movies of all time.

Top Dragon Movies of All Time

11 Images10. 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, or rent on Amazon and other platforms

Kicking off our list, Maleficent offers a fresh take on Disney's classic villain from Sleeping Beauty. In this reimagining, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge by cursing Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) to an eternal slumber. While Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon, towards the film's climax.

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: Available on Max, or rent on other platforms

In this enchanting tale by Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away introduces a dragon as a supporting character within a rich tapestry of Japanese folklore. Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase in English and Rumi Hiiragi in Japanese) embarks on a quest to save her parents, transformed into pigs, navigating a world filled with spirits and mythical beings. The white dragon, though not the central focus, plays a crucial role in Chihiro's journey.

For more magical films, 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: Rent on most platforms

Falkor the 'Luck Dragon' in The NeverEnding Story, though not the main character, is an unforgettable presence. This unique dragon aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his mission to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Falkor's role, though limited, is vital to the plot and has made him one of the most beloved elements of the 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 12, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Available on Disney+, or rent on other platforms

This heartwarming remake of the 1977 classic follows Elliott (Oakes Fegley), an orphaned boy who befriends a camouflaged dragon in the forest. The film blends elements reminiscent of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, crafting a touching narrative about friendship and belonging.

6. Eragon (2006)

Director: 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: Available on Disney+, or rent on other platforms

Based on the popular young adult novel, Eragon follows a young farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg, leading him on an epic journey to defend his homeland with his dragon companion, Saphira. This film is a must-watch for fans of dragon-centric stories.

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: Available on Kanopy, Hoopla, Paramount+, Apple TV, or rent on other platforms

Despite its dated effects and acting, Dragonslayer remains a cherished classic in the fantasy genre. It follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) tasked with slaying a dragon terrorizing a kingdom. Its bold narrative and creative choices make it a standout dragon movie.

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: Available on Max, or rent on other platforms

In this thrilling continuation of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions seek to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. This film stands out as it prominently features the dragon in its title, showcasing Smaug's cunning and greed.

For a comprehensive viewing experience, see our guide on watching the 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 delivers an action-packed dragon movie set in a modern dystopia where dragons reign supreme. After a dragon is awakened from a deep mine, humanity must fight to survive. With a stellar cast and innovative storytelling, this film is a must-watch for dragon enthusiasts.

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 heartfelt, if somewhat cheesy, tale of a knight (Dennis Quaid) teaming up with the last dragon (voiced by Sean Connery) to overthrow a corrupt king. The film's charm lies in the unique bond between the knight and the dragon, providing a delightful twist on the genre.

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 26, 2010 | Review: IGN's How to Train Your Dragon review | Where to watch: Stream on Max, or rent on Amazon Prime Video and other platforms

Topping our list, How to Train Your Dragon is an enchanting animated film about Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), a young Viking who befriends a rare dragon. This heartwarming story delves into themes of friendship and acceptance, enriched with a detailed dragon lore. It's not just a great dragon movie—it's a cinematic gem.

We eagerly anticipate the live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, which may even challenge the animated version's 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!)

AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our top 10 picks for the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons captivate us in many forms, and we believe they are truly magnificent creatures. If your favorite dragon movie didn't make the list, share it with us in the comments.

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