Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy, cherished across many cultures. While each culture has its own unique interpretation, dragons are generally depicted as large, serpent-like creatures known for their power, potential for destruction, and often profound wisdom. These mythical beings have inspired numerous adaptations in games, shows, plays, and movies.

When someone mentions a "Dragon Movie," the immediate expectation is a film centered around dragons. Interestingly, despite the popularity of dragons in our culture, there are fewer dragon-centric movies than one might anticipate. Therefore, our list includes films that feature dragons prominently, even if they are not exclusively focused on them.

Below, you'll find our curated selection 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: | 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 that isn't primarily about dragons, Maleficent reimagines the classic Sleeping Beauty villain. In this Disney retelling, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge by putting Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) to sleep. While Maleficent doesn't transform into a dragon herself, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon, which plays a crucial role towards the movie's end.

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 this enchanting film by Hayao Miyazaki, Spirited Away features a dragon as a significant but not central element. As Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) navigates a mystical world to save her parents, a white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore plays a pivotal role in her journey and character development. For more magical tales, 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

Although not focused on dragons, The NeverEnding Story includes the memorable Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon.' Falkor aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Despite limited screen time, Falkor's role is vital to the story and has become one of the most iconic elements of 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 heartwarming remake of the 1977 original, Pete's Dragon tells the story of a boy, Elliott (Oakes Fegley), who forms an unbreakable bond with a camouflaged dragon after being orphaned in the forest. This touching tale blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, delivering a cohesive and emotionally resonant film.

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 book series, Eragon follows a young farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg, leading to an epic battle of good versus evil. With multiple dragons and thrilling action, this film is a must-watch for dragon enthusiasts, though fans might want to skip the books to avoid comparisons.

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

Despite its dated effects and average acting, Dragonslayer is a classic fantasy adventure. A young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) must confront a dragon to save a kingdom, making it a must-see for fans of dragon-themed movies.

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 venture into the Lonely Mountain to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. Unique for having the dragon's name in the title, Smaug embodies the classic dragon traits of greed and cunning.

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 stands out as an action-packed dragon movie set in a modern world. After a dragon is unearthed in England and begins a reign of terror, a group led by Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey fights back. With strong performances and innovative storytelling, it's a standout in the genre.

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 is a heartwarming yet cheesy tale of a dragonslaying knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), who teams up with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to defeat an evil king. Their unlikely friendship and humorous banter add charm to this classic dragon movie.

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 is the delightful How to Train Your Dragon, which tells the story of Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), a young Viking who befriends a rare dragon. This animated gem combines coming-of-age themes with rich dragon lore, making it not only the best dragon movie but also a beloved animated film.

We look forward to the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, which may join or even surpass the original on this list.

If you're looking for more movies like this, take a look at our guide to the best shark movies or dive into how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.