Sometimes reality is a bust. In times like those, you might want to fire up the Netflix account and look for something with “far-off places, daring sword fights, magic spells, a prince in disguise!” No, we’re not just quotingBeauty and the Beastfor no reason, we’re talking about fantasy stories, and if you’re craving a movie that transports you to another world (or invents a little magic inside the world we live in), look no further! From family-friendly favorites to award-winning dramas, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered with the best fantasy movies you may watch onNetflixright now.
Looking for some more fantastical tales? Check out our list ofbest movies,fantasy shows,sci-fi shows, andsci-fi movieson the platform.
Editor’s note: This list was updated October 2023 to include Goosebumps.
Goosebumps (2015)
Goosebumps
While aGoosebumpsmovie kind of sounds like a bad idea, the 2015 adaptation of the popularR.L. Stinebook series is shockingly great. The trick was making Stine a character in the movie, asJack Blackplays the author who attempts to come to the rescue when some nosy kids accidentally let loose the monsters from his many spooky stories. Just like the books themselves this one is horror-tinged but not too hardcore, making it an excellent choice for youngsters. –Adam Chitwood
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Fullmetal Alchemist (2017)
Fullmetal Alchemist
A live-action feature adaptation of the hit anime series,Fullmetal Alchemist, which was adapted from the original manga of the same name, follows two brothers, Edward (Ryôsuke Yamada) and Al, who have the power to transmute matter: an art called alchemy. After a horrific accident during a failed attempt to resurrect their mother, Ed is left with one arm and one leg, while Al is left bodiless. Ed vows to recover his brother’s lost body, so they venture on a quest to find the mythological Philosopher’s Stone.Fullmetal Alchemistis an action-packed adventure feature full of heart and humor, leaning into its foundation of manga and anime and allowing audiences to enjoy the genuine message in the undoubtedly sometimes goofy story.– Yael Tygiel
Nimona (2023)
A young shapeshifter with extraordinary abilities forms an unlikely alliance with a fallen knight in a world that fuses medieval and futuristic aesthetics. As they battle against a tyrannical institution, they uncover deep-seated secrets and confront formidable foes. The narrative weaves together action, humor, and emotional depth, highlighting their journey of self-discovery and the strength found in their unique bond.
Based on the graphic novel by the amazingly talented queer visionaryND Stevenson,Nimonais a comedic and stylistic fantasy story that will pull at your heartstrings. Set in a futuristic world blended with a medieval cultural aesthetic, the film follows the disgraced knight Ballister Boldheart (Riz Ahmed), who is on the run after being framed for the Queen’s murder. While trying to clear his name, he reluctantly befriends Nimona (Chloë Grace Moretz), a shapeshifting teenager who wants to be his villainous sidekick. Moretz and Ahmed are wonderful together as their characters grow to trust one another, which is only enhanced by the dynamite writing filled with organic and quick-paced banter. –Tauri Miller
Chupa (2023)
Demián Bichir(Let the Right One In) stars with young actorEvan WhitteninChupa, an adorable family film directed byJonás Cuarón.Chupacharmingly explores the mysterious and mythical creature, told through a unique story about a young teen (Whitten) who discovers the strange and beautiful being when visiting relatives in Mexico. Co-starring iconChristian Slater(Mr. Robot) and an undeniably cute CGI chupacabra creature reminiscent of a Gremlin,Chupais a delightful movie for the whole family. Bursting with whimsy, as well as some creative action and stunts,Chupais built on a gorgeous tale of family, heart, and a hint of mystery.– Yael Tygiel
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
A meek Hobbit from the Shire and eight companions set out on a journey to destroy the powerful One Ring and save Middle-earth from the Dark Lord Sauron.
The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ringlaunched directorPeter Jacksoninto icon status as the first film in the illustriousLord of the Ringsfranchise.The Fellowship of the Ringgathers an incredible ensemble cast for the epic fantasy saga, starting withElijah Woodplaying the meek Hobbit Frodo, who leaves the safety of the Shire with a diverse set of companions from various creatures and species to journey across Middle-earth with a singular mission: to destroy a powerful ring from a dark wizard. Supporting Wood on his quest are actorsOrlando Bloom,Sean Bean, andIan McKellen, among many others, earning the adventure film series a slew of awards and accolades.– Yael Tygiel
The Addams Family (1991)
The Addams Family
While filmmakerBarry Sonnenfeldis best known as the director ofMen in Blackand the Netflix seriesA Series of Unfortunate Events, his signature style was on full display in his directorial debut: the 1991 adaptationThe Addams Family. While this movie may not be suitable for all kids, it’s got a spooky, creepy sensibility that will appeal strongly to certain folks without crossing the line into inappropriate territory. The production design is gorgeous, the performances are delightfully kooky, but above all the throughline of humor makesThe Addams Familya supremely entertaining watch. –Adam Chitwood
Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio (2022)
Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio
Guillermo del Toro(Nightmare Alley) andMark Gustafson(The PJs) team up to create the exquisitely crafted claymation filmGuillermo del Toro’sPinocchio.Pinocchiois the story of an Italian woodcarver named Geppetto, voiced byDavid Bradley(Doctor Who), whose grief-filled wish magically breathes life into his wooden marionette Pinocchio (Gregory Mann). With the two brilliant directors working collectively to highlight the deliberately intricate art and whimsical music of this dark adaptation,Pinocchiois an enchanting rendition of the classic tale. Featuring an unbelievable cast, includingRon Perlman, John Turturro, andCate Blanchett,Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchiotruly stands undeniably apart.– Yael Tygiel
The School for Good and Evil (2022)
The School for Good and Evil
Set in a fantastical land where young women are separated into opposing enchanted schools to learn the ways of Princesses and Witches,The School for Good and Evilis a whimsical movie from directorPaul Feig(Ghostbusters), who co-wrote the story, based onSoman Chainani’s book, withDavid Magee. Alongside glorious performances fromCharlize Theron(The Old Guard) andKerry Washington(Little Fires Everywhere),The School for Good and EvilstarsSophia Anne CarusoandSofia Wylieas prospective students Sophie and Agatha. Exploring the nature of humanity, the balance of positive and negative, and the strength of friendship through a playful adventure,The School for Good and Evilis an elegantly thoughtful movie for audiences of all ages.– Yael Tygiel
Dracula Untold (2014)
Dracula Untold
In 15th-century Transylvania, Vlad III (Luke Evans), prince of Wallachia, is known as a just ruler. With his beloved wife, Mirena (Sarah Gadon), Vlad has brokered a prolonged period of peace and ensured that his people are protected, especially from the Ottoman Empire. However, when Sultan Mehmed II (Dominic Cooper) demands 1,000 of the country’s boys, including Vlad’s son, for his army, Vlad makes a deal with a monster that will enable him to defeat the Turks – but cost him his humanity.
Dracula Untoldis a creative origin story for one of the most iconic gothic figures in all of vampire lore. Set in 1462 Transylvania,Dracula Untoldreveals how, when the son of Prince Vlad (Luke Evans) is drafted by the Turk Sultan (Dominic Cooper) to an unjust war, Vlad makes a deal with the Master Vampire (Charles Dance) to save his family and his kingdom, turning him into Dracula. DirectorGary ShoreallowsDracula Untoldto be more than just a monster movie, weaving in a Faustian tale alongside an epic war drama and sword fighting, shrewdly increasing the gore and bloodshed expected in a vampire flick.– Yael Tygiel
Vampire Academy (2014)
Vampire Academy
BeforeJulie Plec’s Peacock series, a film adaptation ofThe Vampire Academywas brought to the big screen byMark WatersstarringZoey DeutchandLucy Fryas the best friends from opposite sides of the proverbial track. Building on the richly complex mythology laid out in Richelle Mead’s novels,The Vampire Academydives into the class systems and vampire traditions of Moroi, peaceful vampires who discreetly live within our world, protected by half-vampire guardians called Dhampir.The Vampire Academyplaces Deutch and Fry at the forefront as they train to take their places in society while battling for love, friendship, and against their bloodthirsty, immortal Vampire enemies: the Strigoi.– Yael Tygiel
