Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Made

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy, appearing across numerous cultures. While each culture's interpretation of dragons varies, they are commonly recognized as large, serpentine creatures symbolizing destruction, power, and often profound wisdom. These mythical beings have been adapted into various forms of media, including games, shows, plays, and movies.

When we think of "Dragon Movies," the expectation is a film centered around dragons. However, despite their popularity in culture, there are fewer dragon-focused movies than one might expect. Consequently, some films on our list feature dragons but may not be exclusively about them.

Without further ado, here are our picks for the top 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: | 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, Maleficent offers a unique twist on the classic Disney villain from Sleeping Beauty. In this reimagining, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge by cursing Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning). While Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon, she magically turns her companion Diaval into one, providing a thrilling climax to the film.

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 masterpiece from Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away weaves a tapestry of Japanese folklore. While the dragon appears more as a cameo, it plays a crucial role in the protagonist Chihiro's journey to save her parents from their porcine fate. For more enchanting films, 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

The NeverEnding Story introduces Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon,' who, despite limited screen time, plays an essential role in Atreyu's quest to save Fantasia. Falkor's unique charm has made him an iconic figure in dragon lore, adding depth to this timeless adventure.

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 heartfelt remake, Pete's Dragon tells the story of young Elliott, who befriends a camouflaged dragon after being orphaned in the forest. This touching tale blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences of all ages.

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 acclaimed young adult series, Eragon follows a farm boy who discovers a dragon egg, leading to an epic battle between good and evil. Featuring multiple dragons, the film provides ample excitement, though it's best enjoyed without prior knowledge of the books.

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

Though dated in some aspects, Dragonslayer remains a beloved classic in the fantasy genre. The story follows a young wizard's apprentice tasked with slaying a dragon to free a kingdom, showcasing bold storytelling and creative effects for its time.

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 and his companions venture into the Lonely Mountain to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. With Smaug's name in the title, this film delivers a classic dragon tale filled with greed, cunning, and territorial battles. For a complete viewing experience, see our guide on watching the 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 stands out as an action-packed dragon movie set in a modern context. After a dragon is accidentally awakened in 2020 England, humanity faces a new predator. With a stellar cast and innovative concept, this film brings a fresh take on dragon lore.

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 offers a heartwarming and somewhat cheesy tale of a dragonslaying knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), who allies with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to defeat an evil king. Their unlikely friendship adds a delightful buddy-cop dynamic to the film, making it a memorable entry in dragon cinema.

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, How to Train Your Dragon is a charming and innovative animated film that blends coming-of-age themes with fantasy. Hiccup's journey from aspiring dragonslayer to dragon friend showcases a variety of dragon species and their lore, making it a standout dragon movie and a great film overall. We anticipate the upcoming live-action adaptation to be a worthy addition to this list.

These are our top 10 picks for the best dragon movies of all time. Dragons captivate us with their diverse portrayals, and we'd love to hear about your favorite dragon films in the comments. For more movie recommendations, explore our guides to the best shark movies and how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.