Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy, captivating audiences across various cultures. Each culture has its unique interpretation of dragons, yet there's a common understanding that these creatures are large, serpent-like beings known for their power, often associated with destruction, and sometimes revered for their wisdom. Dragons have been adapted into numerous forms of media, including games, shows, plays, and movies, enriching our cultural landscape.

When you think of a "Dragon Movie," you likely expect a film centered around these majestic creatures. However, despite their popularity, there aren't as many dragon-centric movies as one might assume. Therefore, our list includes films that feature dragons prominently, even if they 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

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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 tru TV, rentable on Amazon and other platforms

Kicking off our list with a film that's less about dragons but still features them, Maleficent is Disney's reimagining of the iconic villain from the 1959 classic Sleeping Beauty. In this tale, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge on the kingdom that betrayed her, leading to the curse on Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning). While Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon, towards the movie'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

In this enchanting film from Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away features a dragon as a pivotal element, though not the main focus. The story follows Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi), who must navigate a mystical world to save her parents from being permanently transformed into pigs. The white dragon, inspired by Japanese folklore, plays a crucial role in Chihiro's journey and personal growth.

For more enchanting tales, 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

Though not centered around dragons, The NeverEnding Story includes the unforgettable Falkor the 'Luck Dragon.' Falkor aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Despite limited screen time, Falkor's role is essential to the story, making him one of the most iconic elements of the 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 8, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms

A heartwarming remake of the 1977 original, Pete's Dragon tells the story of a boy named Pete (Oakes Fegley) who befriends a camouflaged dragon named Elliott after being orphaned in a forest. This film blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, creating a touching narrative that resonates with audiences.

6. Eragon (2006)

Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: 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

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 to defend his homeland with his dragon companion, Saphira. While the film offers plenty of dragon action, it's recommended to watch it without prior knowledge of the books for a better 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

Despite its dated effects and average acting, Dragonslayer remains a beloved classic in the fantasy genre. The story follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) who must slay a dragon terrorizing a kingdom after his master's death. Its bold storytelling and creative choices make it a must-watch for dragon movie enthusiasts.

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

In this thrilling continuation of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and his companions venture into the Lonely Mountain to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. This film stands out as it features the dragon's name in the title, showcasing Smaug's cunning 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)

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 offers a modern twist on the dragon movie genre, set in a post-apocalyptic world where dragons have emerged as the dominant species. With a stellar cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this action-packed film delivers thrilling dragon encounters and impressive effects for its time.

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 is a heartfelt tale of an unlikely alliance between a dragonslaying knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), and the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery). Their mission to overthrow an evil king brings humor and warmth to this otherwise typical 90s fantasy film, highlighted by the charming chemistry between the protagonists.

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 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 the delightful How to Train Your Dragon, a coming-of-age story set in a Viking world where dragons are feared. Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) befriends a rare dragon, Toothless, leading to a transformative journey that challenges the norms of his society. This film not only excels as a dragon movie but also stands out as a top-tier animated feature.

We're excited about the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, which might even surpass the original animated film.

And that's our selection of the top 10 dragon movies of all time! Dragons, in their many forms, continue to captivate and inspire. If we've missed your favorite dragon movie, let us know 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.