Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons captivate imaginations across cultures, often portrayed as large, serpentine beings embodying destruction, power, and wisdom. These mythical creatures have inspired countless adaptations in games, shows, plays, and movies. However, despite their widespread popularity, there aren't as many dragon-centric films as one might expect. Some movies on our list feature dragons but may not focus solely on them.

Explore our selection of the top dragon movies of all time below.

Top Dragon Movies of All Time

11 Images

10. 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 with a film where dragons play a less central role, Maleficent is Disney's reimagining of the iconic villain from the 1959 classic Sleeping Beauty. In this narrative, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) curses princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) as revenge for past betrayals. While Maleficent herself does not transform into a dragon, she magically turns Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon towards the movie's end, adding a unique twist to the tale.

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

In Spirited Away, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, dragons appear more as a cameo but are crucial to the plot. This enchanting story follows Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase in English and Rumi Hiiragi in Japanese) as she navigates a mystical realm to save her parents, transformed into pigs. A white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore plays a pivotal role in Chihiro's journey, enhancing the film's magical atmosphere.

For more cinematic wonders 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 primarily focused on dragons, The NeverEnding Story features Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon,' an unforgettable character who assists Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Despite limited screen time, Falkor's role is essential, and his charm has made 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

A heartwarming tale, Pete’s Dragon is a remake of the 1977 original. It follows young Elliott (Oakes Fegley), who, after losing his parents in a car crash, befriends a camouflaged dragon named Pete. This film combines elements reminiscent of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, delivering a touching story about friendship and adventure.

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

Adapted from the acclaimed young adult series, Eragon centers on a farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg, sparking an epic journey against evil forces. With multiple dragons and thrilling action, the film offers a satisfying dragon-centric experience, though it's recommended to enjoy the movie without prior knowledge of the books.

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 dated effects and average acting, Dragonslayer remains a beloved classic in the fantasy genre. It follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) who must slay a dragon to free 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 second installment of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions venture into the Lonely Mountain 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 and territoriality, making this film a standout in the genre.

Explore our guide on watching Lord of the Rings movies in order for more adventures in Middle Earth.

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

Reign of Fire offers a modern twist on the dragon movie genre, set in a post-apocalyptic world where dragons dominate. With a strong cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this action-packed film delivers thrilling dragon encounters and compelling storytelling.

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 blends heartfelt storytelling with a touch of 90s charm. It follows a knight (Dennis Quaid) who forms an unlikely alliance with the last dragon (voiced by Sean Connery) to overthrow a tyrannical king. The film's humor and chemistry between the protagonists elevate it from a potentially cheesy premise to a delightful dragon tale.

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

Topping our list, How to Train Your Dragon is a charming and insightful animated film that beautifully merges coming-of-age themes with fantasy. It follows Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), who befriends a rare dragon, leading to a transformative friendship that challenges his community's traditions. This movie stands out not only for its engaging dragon lore but also as a cinematic masterpiece.

We anticipate the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, might join or even surpass the original on 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 very good boys and girls. Are we missing your favorite fire breather? Let us know in the comments.

For more thrilling cinematic experiences, dive into our guide to the best shark movies or discover how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.