Top 10 Dragon Movies Ever Ranked

Dragons have long captured the imagination of cultures worldwide, embodying symbols of power, destruction, and profound wisdom. These mythical creatures, often depicted as large, serpent-like beings, have inspired countless stories across games, shows, plays, and movies. Despite their widespread appeal, movies specifically centered around dragons are surprisingly rare. Some of the films on our list feature dragons prominently but may not be exclusively about them. Let's explore our 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 PicturesDirector: 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 unique twist, Maleficent is Disney's reimagining of the classic villain from Sleeping Beauty. In this version, while Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) doesn't transform into a dragon herself, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon towards the film's end. The narrative follows Maleficent's quest for revenge against the kingdom, which ultimately leads to a complex relationship with Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning).

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: Max, or rentable on other platforms

In Hayao Miyazaki's enchanting Spirited Away, dragons make a memorable cameo. As Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) navigates a magical world to save her parents, a white dragon inspired by Japanese folklore becomes crucial to her journey. Although not the main focus, this dragon adds depth to the film's rich tapestry of myth and magic. For more films like this, 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

While not centered around dragons, The NeverEnding Story introduces Falkor, the 'Luck Dragon.' This beloved character plays a vital role in assisting Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) on his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Despite limited screen time, Falkor's charm and significance make him an unforgettable part 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 8, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms

A heartwarming tale, Pete's Dragon (2016) follows the story of a young boy named Pete (Oakes Fegley) who, after a car crash, befriends a camouflaged dragon named Elliott. This modern take on the 1977 classic blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, creating a touching narrative that showcases the bond between a boy and his dragon friend.

6. Eragon (2006)

Image credit: 20th Century FoxDirector: 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 series, Eragon brings the story of a farm boy (Ed Speleers) who discovers a dragon egg and embarks on an epic journey to defend his homeland. Featuring multiple dragons, the film offers plenty of action and excitement, though fans of the books might find it deviates from the source material.

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

Despite its dated effects and average acting, Dragonslayer remains a beloved fantasy adventure. Following a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) tasked with slaying a dragon, this film showcases the genre's classic elements with a touch of nostalgia.

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: Max, or rentable on other platforms

In the second installment of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo Baggins (Martin Freeman) and his companions venture into the Lonely Mountain to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. This film uniquely features the dragon's name in the title and presents Smaug as the epitome of dragon characteristics: cunning, greedy, and territorial. For a complete experience, check out our guide on watching the 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 a thrilling action movie set in a modern world ravaged by dragons. After a dragon is accidentally unearthed in England, humanity faces a new era of survival. With a strong cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this film offers a fresh take on the dragon movie genre.

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 heartfelt and somewhat corny tale of a dragonslaying knight, Bowen (Dennis Quaid), who teams up with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to overthrow an evil king. The film's unique buddy dynamic and Draco's sophisticated nature make it a memorable entry in the dragon movie canon.

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 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 How to Train Your Dragon, a delightful animated film that combines coming-of-age themes with rich fantasy elements. Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) forms an unlikely friendship with a rare dragon, challenging the traditions of his Viking community. Packed with various dragon species and deep lore, this film stands out as both a great dragon movie and a stellar animated feature. We eagerly anticipate the live-action adaptation set to release in June, which might even surpass the original.

And there you have it—our top 10 picks for the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons may take many forms, but they continue to captivate us with their mythical allure. If your favorite dragon movie is missing, let us know in the comments. For more thrilling cinematic experiences, explore our guides on the best shark movies or how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.