Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy, celebrated across many cultures. Each culture has its own unique interpretation of a dragon, yet there's a common understanding that these creatures are large, serpent-like beings known for their power, destruction, and often profound wisdom. This fascination with dragons has been adapted into various forms of media, including games, shows, plays, and movies.

When you think of a "Dragon Movie," you likely expect a film that focuses on or prominently features dragons. Despite their popularity in culture, truly dragon-centric movies are fewer than one might expect. Consequently, our list includes films that feature dragons but may not be exclusively about them.

Let's dive into our curated list of the top dragon movies of all time.

Top Dragon Movies of All Time

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10. 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 is Disney's reimagining of the villain from the 1959 classic Sleeping Beauty. In this version, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) puts princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) to sleep as revenge for past betrayals. Interestingly, Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon; instead, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon towards the film's end.

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 rentable on other platforms

In Spirited Away, another film where dragons play a supporting role, Hayao Miyazaki weaves a magical tale inspired by Japanese myths. As Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) navigates a fantastical world to save her parents, a white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore becomes a crucial element in her journey and personal growth.

For more enchanting 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: Rentable on most platforms

The NeverEnding Story features Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon,' who, despite not being the central character, plays a vital role in Atreyu's (Noah Hathaway) quest to save Fantasia. Falkor's limited screen time does not diminish his impact, making him one of the most memorable elements of this beloved 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 rentable on other platforms

The 2016 remake of Pete's Dragon tells the heartwarming story of a boy named Pete (Oakes Fegley) who, after being orphaned in a forest, befriends a camouflaged dragon he names Elliott. This film blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, creating a touching narrative that resonates well with audiences.

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 rentable on other platforms

Based on the popular young adult book series, Eragon follows a young farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg, leading him on an epic journey against evil forces. Featuring multiple dragons, this film offers plenty of dragon-centric action, though it's recommended to watch it without prior knowledge of 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: Available on Kanopy, Hoopla, Paramount+, Apple TV, or rentable on other platforms

Despite its dated effects and average acting, Dragonslayer remains a cherished fantasy adventure. The story follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) tasked with defeating a dragon after his master's death. Its bold storytelling earns it a spot on our list.

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 rentable on other platforms

In the second installment of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and his companions seek to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. This film uniquely features the dragon's name in its title and delivers a true-to-form dragon with Smaug's greed, cleverness, and territorial nature.

For a complete viewing experience, see our guide on watching 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 stands out as an action-packed dragon movie set in modern-day England. After a dragon is discovered in a mine, it begins a reign of terror. With a strong cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, the film delivers thrilling action and impressive effects for its time.

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 heartwarming, if slightly cheesy, tale of a knight (Dennis Quaid) who teams up with the last dragon (voiced by Sean Connery) to overthrow an evil king. The film's charm lies in the unexpected friendship and the dragon's sophisticated nature, making it a standout in 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, rent on Amazon Prime Video and other platforms

How to Train Your Dragon is a captivating animated film that blends coming-of-age themes with fantasy. When Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) befriends a rare dragon, it changes his village's perspective on dragons. This film not only excels as a dragon movie but also as a top-tier animated feature, enriched with diverse dragon lore.

We're eagerly anticipating the live-action How to Train Your Dragon, set for release in June, which might just top the original.

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 Results

And that concludes our list of the top 10 dragon movies of all time! Dragons captivate us in their many forms, and we believe they're truly remarkable creatures. Did we miss your favorite dragon film? Let us know in the comments.

For more movie recommendations, explore our guide to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.