Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy across many cultures. Though each culture has its own unique interpretation, it's universally understood that a dragon is a large, serpent-like creature known for its destructive power, strength, and often profound 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. However, despite their popularity, there aren't as many dragon-focused movies as one might expect. Therefore, our list includes films that feature dragons prominently, even if they aren't exclusively about them.

Let's dive into our picks for the best 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: May 30, 2014 | Review: IGN's Maleficent review | Where to watch: Stream on TBS, TNT, and truTV, or rent on Amazon and other platforms

Kicking off our list is Maleficent, Disney's modern take on the villain from the 1959 classic Sleeping Beauty. In this reimagining, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge on the kingdom by cursing Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning). While Maleficent doesn't transform into a dragon herself, she uses her magic to turn her companion Diaval into a dragon towards the end of the film, adding a thrilling twist to the narrative.

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: Available on Max, or rent on other platforms

In Hayao Miyazaki's enchanting Spirited Away, a dragon plays a significant role, though not the central one. The film follows Chihiro (Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) as she navigates a mystical world to save her parents from a curse. A white dragon, drawn from Japanese folklore, becomes a crucial part of Chihiro's journey and personal growth.

For more like this, 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: Rent on most platforms

While not centered on dragons, The NeverEnding Story features the unforgettable Falkor the 'Luck Dragon.' Falkor assists Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Though his screen time is limited, Falkor's role is vital, and he remains one of the most iconic elements of the film.

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 12, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Available on Disney+, or rent on other platforms

A heartfelt remake of the 1977 original, Pete's Dragon tells the story of young Pete (Oakes Fegley), who, after a tragic accident, befriends a camouflaged dragon named Elliott. This touching tale combines elements of adventure and friendship, resonating deeply with audiences.

6. Eragon (2006)

Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: Stefan Fangmeier | Writer: Peter Buchman | Stars: Jeremy Irons, Robert Carlyle, Ed Speleers | Release Date: December 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Eragon review | Where to watch: Available on Disney+, or rent on other platforms

Based on the popular young adult novel, Eragon follows a farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg, leading him on a thrilling adventure to defend his homeland. While the film features multiple dragons and exciting action, it's recommended to watch it before reading the books for a better experience.

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: Available on Kanopy, Hoopla, Paramount+, Apple TV, or rent on other platforms

Despite its dated effects and average acting, Dragonslayer remains a beloved classic for dragon movie enthusiasts. It follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) tasked with slaying a dragon that terrorizes a kingdom. Its bold storytelling and creative elements make it a memorable entry in the genre.

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: Available on Max, or rent on other platforms

The second installment in The Hobbit trilogy, The Desolation of Smaug, continues Bilbo Baggins' (Martin Freeman) journey with a band of dwarves to reclaim the Lonely Mountain from the dragon Smaug. This film uniquely features the dragon's name in its title and showcases Smaug's cunning and greed.

For the complete experience, see our guide on watching 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 the best action-packed dragon movie on our list. Set in a modern world where a dragon emerges from a deep mine in 2020 England, it features intense battles and strong performances by Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, making it a thrilling watch.

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 (Dennis Quaid) teaming up with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to overthrow an evil king. Their unique friendship and humorous dynamic add charm to this classic dragon movie.

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 26, 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 is How to Train Your Dragon, an animated masterpiece that blends coming-of-age themes with fantasy. The story follows Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), who befriends a rare dragon, leading to a transformative journey that challenges his village's dragon-hunting traditions. With its rich lore and diverse dragon species, this film is not only a great dragon movie but a cinematic gem.

We're eagerly anticipating the live-action How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, which might even surpass the original on this list.

And that's our selection of the top 10 dragon movies of all time! Dragons captivate us with their power and mystery, and we'd love to hear about your favorite dragon movies in the comments.

For more themed movie lists, explore our guide to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.