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Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

by Jacob Apr 11,2025

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy, transcending cultures and captivating imaginations worldwide. While each culture portrays dragons differently, there's a common understanding that they are large, serpent-like creatures often associated with destruction, power, and wisdom. From folklore to modern media, dragons have been adapted into various forms across games, shows, plays, and movies.

When you think of a "Dragon Movie," you expect a film that revolves around these majestic creatures. However, despite their popularity, there aren't as many dragon-centric movies as one might expect. As such, our list includes films where dragons play a significant role, even if they aren't the sole focus.

Read on to discover our selection of the top dragon movies of all time.

Top Dragon Movies of All Time

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  1. Maleficent (2014)

Image credit: Walt Disney Pictures
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

Our list begins with "Maleficent," a film that, while not primarily focused on dragons, features a dragon transformation. This Disney reimagining of the classic "Sleeping Beauty" villain showcases Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) using her magic to transform Diaval into a dragon at the movie's climax, adding a thrilling twist to the story.

  1. Spirited Away (2001)

Image credit: Studio Ghibli
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, features a dragon as a key element in its rich tapestry of Japanese mythology. While the dragon is not the main focus, its presence is crucial to the plot and the protagonist Chihiro's journey to save her parents from a mystical realm.

For more enchanting tales, check out our list of the best Studio Ghibli movies.

  1. 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

"The NeverEnding Story" introduces us to Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon,' a beloved character despite his limited screen time. Falkor's role is pivotal in helping Atreyu save the fantastical world of Fantasia, making him an unforgettable part of this iconic film.

  1. Pete’s Dragon (2016)

Image credit: Walt Disney Studios
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 heartwarming "Pete's Dragon" tells the story of a boy named Pete who forms an unbreakable bond with a camouflaged dragon named Elliott after losing his parents in a forest. This touching tale combines elements of friendship and adventure in a delightful narrative.

  1. Eragon (2006)

Image credit: 20th Century Fox
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

"Eragon" marks a shift towards dragon-centric narratives on our list. Based on the popular young adult series, the film follows a young farm boy who discovers a dragon egg, leading to an epic battle against evil forces with his dragon companion, Saphira.

  1. Dragonslayer (1981)

Image credit: Paramount Pictures
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

"Dragonslayer" is a classic fantasy adventure that may feel dated but holds a special place in dragon movie history. It follows a young wizard's apprentice tasked with defeating a dragon to save a kingdom, showcasing bold storytelling and creative visuals.

  1. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

Image credit: Warner Bros. Pictures
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

"The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug" brings the legendary dragon Smaug to life in a thrilling continuation of the Middle Earth saga. Bilbo and his companions face the formidable dragon to reclaim the Lonely Mountain, making this film a standout in dragon lore.

For a complete viewing experience, see our guide on watching the Lord of the Rings movies in order.

  1. Reign of Fire (2002)

Image credit: Buena Vista Pictures
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" offers a gripping modern take on the dragon genre. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where dragons have become the dominant species, this action-packed film features standout performances and innovative storytelling.

  1. Dragonheart (1996)

Image credit: Universal Pictures
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" blends humor and heart in a unique dragon tale. A knight teams up with the last dragon, voiced by Sean Connery, to overthrow a tyrant. The film's charm lies in the unlikely friendship and the dragon's sophisticated character.

  1. How to Train your Dragon (2010)

Image credit: Paramount Pictures
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, "How to Train Your Dragon" is a heartwarming and thrilling animated film. It follows Hiccup, a young Viking who befriends a rare dragon, leading to a transformative journey that challenges his community's traditions. Rich in dragon lore and character development, this film is a must-watch.

We eagerly await the live-action "How to Train Your Dragon," set to release in June, which might even surpass the animated original.

What's the best dragon movie of all time? -----------------------------------------

And that's our 10 picks of the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons captivate us in countless ways, and we believe they are truly magnificent creatures. If your favorite dragon movie isn't on our list, feel free to share it 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.