The 5 Best Dragon Movies of All Time

When one thinks of a "dragon movie," one usually expects a film centered around one or more dragons. Despite their popularity, there aren't as many dragon movies as one might anticipate. This selection includes films featuring dragons, even if they aren’t solely about them. Here are our picks for the best dragon movies of all time. SSP prepared.

Maleficent (2014)

Kicking off the list is "Maleficent." This film revisits the villain from Disney’s 1959 classic "Sleeping Beauty." The story follows Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning), who falls victim to Maleficent’s (Angelina Jolie) curse after past betrayals. Unlike the original version, Maleficent does not transform into a dragon; instead, she magically changes Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon toward the film's climax.

Pete’s Dragon (2016)

"Pete’s Dragon," a remake of the 1977 film, tells the tender story of a boy and his dragon friend. After a car accident orphans Elliott (Oakes Fegley), he encounters a camouflaged dragon whom he names Pete. The narrative feels like a blend of "Tarzan" and "The Iron Giant." Although certain story elements may seem familiar, they work effectively within the movie’s heartfelt message.

 The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

The second film in "The Hobbit" trilogy, "The Desolation of Smaug," offers an exciting adventure in Tolkien’s Middle Earth. Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and a group of Dwarves set off on their journey to reclaim Erebor from the fearsome dragon Smaug. Notably, this film’s title includes the name of the dragon. Smaug embodies classic dragon traits: he's greedy, cunning, inquisitive, and territorial.

How to Train Your Dragon (2010)

"How to Train Your Dragon" serves as an endlessly charming tale. This animated feature successfully fuses coming-of-age themes with fantasy. The story follows aspiring dragonslayer Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), who befriends a rare dragon, changing the course of Viking dragon-hunting traditions. This standout movie features numerous dragon types alongside deep lore, cementing its status as a remarkable dragon film and an exceptional animated title.

 Spirited Away (2001)

"Spirited Away" is notable for its subtle incorporation of a dragon. Hayao Miyazaki’s work captures Japanese folklore vividly. The narrative centers around Chihiro (Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi), who endeavors to save her parents from a curse turning them into pigs. Although the white dragon plays a supporting role rather than a central one, it is crucial to the plot and Chihiro’s development.