Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons are iconic figures in mythology and fantasy, resonating deeply across various cultures. Universally recognized as large, serpentine beings, dragons are often associated with themes of destruction, power, and profound wisdom. Their portrayal varies widely across different media, including games, shows, plays, and movies.

When someone mentions a "Dragon Movie," the expectation is a film centered on dragons. Surprisingly, despite their cultural prominence, dragon-centric movies are fewer than one might anticipate. Consequently, some films on our list feature dragons prominently but may not be solely about them.

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: | Review: IGN's Maleficent review | Where to watch: Stream on TBS, TNT, and tru TV, rentable on Amazon and other platforms

Kickstarting our list is Maleficent, Disney’s reimagining of the iconic villain from the 1959 classic Sleeping Beauty. In this version, princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) is put to sleep by Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) in a tale of revenge and redemption. While Maleficent herself does not transform into a dragon, she employs her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon, towards the movie'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: Max, or rentable on other platforms

Spirited Away is another film where a dragon makes a notable appearance rather than being the central focus. Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this enchanting film explores Japanese folklore through the journey of Chihiro (Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi), who navigates a world of spirits to save her parents. The white dragon, rooted in Japanese mythology, plays a crucial role in the plot and Chihiro's development.

For more cinematic treasures from Studio Ghibli, 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

Though not the main character, Falkor the 'Luck Dragon' from The NeverEnding Story is an indispensable part of the film. This unique dragon aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Despite his limited screen time, Falkor's role is pivotal, and he remains one of the film's most memorable elements.

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

The 2016 remake of Pete’s Dragon tells the touching story of a boy named Pete (Oakes Fegley) who, after being orphaned, forms a bond with a camouflaged dragon he names Elliott. The film blends elements reminiscent of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, crafting a heartwarming narrative that resonates with audiences.

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

Adapted from the popular young adult series, Eragon is predominantly about dragons. The story follows a young farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg, leading him on an epic journey against evil forces with his dragon companion, Saphira. While the film offers thrilling dragon scenes, it's recommended to watch it before diving into the books.

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 and performances, Dragonslayer holds a cherished spot in fantasy cinema. This film follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) tasked with slaying a dragon to free a kingdom, showcasing the daring and imaginative storytelling of its time.

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

In this second installment of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions venture to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. Named after the dragon itself, this film captures the essence of a classic dragon: greedy, clever, and territorial.

For guidance on watching the entire Lord of the Rings saga, see our comprehensive guide.

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 a gripping action-packed dragon movie set in a modern world. After a dragon awakens in 2020 England, humanity faces a new era of survival. With a stellar cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this film delivers an engaging and intense experience.

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 narrative with a touch of 90s charm. The story follows Bowen (Dennis Quaid), a dragonslayer who teams up with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to overthrow an evil king. Their unique friendship and witty banter 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 is How to Train Your Dragon, a captivating animated film that blends coming-of-age themes with fantasy. Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) befriends a rare dragon, leading to a transformative friendship that challenges the Viking community's traditions. This film is not only a standout dragon movie but also a beloved animated feature.

We anticipate the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon to potentially join or even surpass the original on this list when it releases in June.

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 10 picks of the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons come in many forms, but we can all agree they are very good boys and girls. Are we missing your favorite fire breather? Let us know in the comments.

If you're looking for more movies like this, take a look at our guide to the best shark movies or dive into how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.