Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy across many cultures. While each culture has its unique interpretation of dragons, there's a common understanding that they are large, serpent-like creatures known for their power, often associated with destruction, and sometimes revered for their wisdom. These mythical beings have been adapted into various forms of media, including games, shows, plays, and movies.

When someone mentions a "Dragon Movie," the expectation is a film centered around dragons. Despite their popularity, true dragon-centric movies are surprisingly scarce. Therefore, some entries on our list feature dragons prominently but may not be exclusively about them.

Explore 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, rentable on Amazon and other platforms

Kicking off our list is Maleficent, Disney’s reimagining of the iconic villain from the 1959 classic Sleeping Beauty. In this tale, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge by putting Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) to sleep. Unlike the original, Maleficent doesn't transform into a dragon herself; instead, she uses her magic to turn her raven, Diaval, into various creatures, including a dragon near 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: Max, or rentable on other platforms

Spirited Away, a masterpiece from Hayao Miyazaki, explores a myriad of Japanese myths. As Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) navigates a spirit-filled world to save her parents, a white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore plays a crucial, though not central, role in her journey.

For more cinematic gems 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 focus, Falkor the 'Luck Dragon' from The NeverEnding Story is an unforgettable character. As Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) embarks on his quest to save Fantasia, Falkor's presence, though limited, is essential to his success, making him one of the film's most iconic 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

This remake of the 1977 original tells the heartwarming story of Elliott (Oakes Fegley), a boy who befriends a camouflaged dragon after losing his parents in a forest. The film blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, creating a touching narrative about friendship and discovery.

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

Based on the popular young adult book series, Eragon introduces us to a farm boy who discovers a dragon egg, sparking a journey of heroism. Alongside his dragon, Saphira, Eragon (Ed Speleers) battles evil forces, making this film a thrilling entry for dragon enthusiasts.

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, Dragonslayer remains a beloved classic. A young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) must confront a dragon to save a kingdom, showcasing bold and creative storytelling that stands the test of 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 thrilling sequel, Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions venture into the Lonely Mountain to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. This film uniquely features the dragon's name in the title, portraying Smaug as a cunning and territorial adversary.

For a comprehensive 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

Set in a modern dystopia, Reign of Fire showcases a thrilling battle against dragons that emerged from a deep mine in England. With a stellar cast and innovative storytelling, this film stands out as a compelling action-packed dragon movie.

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 story of an unlikely alliance between a knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), and a dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to overthrow an evil king. Their buddy-cop dynamic adds charm and humor, making it a standout in the dragon movie 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 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

How to Train Your Dragon is a delightful blend of coming-of-age and fantasy. Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) forms an unexpected bond with a rare dragon, leading to a transformation in Viking dragon-hunting culture. With its rich lore and diverse dragon species, this film tops our list as an exceptional dragon movie and a great animated feature overall.

We anticipate the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, will be a strong contender for 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 10 picks of the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons come in many forms, but we can all agree they are fascinating creatures. 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 discover how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.