Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy across many cultures. While each culture may have its own unique take on dragons, there's a general understanding that they are large, serpent-like creatures often associated with destruction, power, and profound wisdom. These mythical beings have been adapted into various forms of media, including games, shows, plays, and movies.

When you hear "Dragon Movie," you might expect a film that's centered around a dragon or multiple dragons. Interestingly, despite the widespread fascination with dragons, there aren't as many dragon-centric movies as one might think. This 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)

Image credit: Walt Disney Pictures
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

Starting our list, Maleficent offers a unique twist on Disney's classic Sleeping Beauty villain. In this re-imagining, princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) is cursed by Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) due to past betrayals. Though Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon, adding a fascinating element to the film.

9. 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

In Hayao Miyazaki's enchanting Spirited Away, a dragon makes a memorable cameo. As Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) navigates a mystical world to save her parents from being turned into pigs, a white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore plays a crucial role in her journey and personal growth.

For more magical experiences, explore 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 features Falkor the 'Luck Dragon,' a unique dragon who aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Although Falkor's screen time is limited, his role is indispensable to the story, making him an iconic character in the film.

7. 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

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

6. 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

Based on the popular young adult novel series, Eragon tells the story of a farm boy who discovers a dragon egg and embarks on a journey to defend his homeland with his dragon, Saphira. While the film offers exciting dragon action, it's recommended to watch it before reading the books for a better experience.

5. 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

Though somewhat dated in its effects and acting, Dragonslayer remains a beloved fantasy adventure. A young wizard's apprentice must slay a dragon to save a kingdom, offering a classic tale with bold and creative elements that stand the test of time.

4. 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

In this thrilling continuation of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions seek to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. Unique for featuring the dragon's name in the title, Smaug embodies the classic dragon traits of greed, intelligence, and territoriality.

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

3. 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 brings dragon mythology into a modern setting, with a dragon awakening from a deep mine to wreak havoc on Earth. With a stellar cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this action-packed film delivers an original and thrilling dragon narrative.

2. 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 offers a heartfelt tale of a knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), teaming up with the last dragon, voiced by Sean Connery, to defeat an evil king. With its charming buddy-cop dynamic and sophisticated dragon character, this film transcends typical 90s cheesiness to deliver a memorable dragon story.

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 captivating animated film that blends coming-of-age themes with fantasy. The story of Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) and his friendship with a rare dragon not only offers diverse dragon lore but also delivers a universally appealing narrative. We're excited about the upcoming live-action adaptation set for June, which might even challenge the original's spot on this list.

We hope you enjoyed our picks for the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons are fascinating creatures in any form, and we believe they're truly special. If your favorite dragon film didn't make the list, let us know in the comments.

For more cinematic adventures, check out our guides to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.