Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy across many cultures. Each culture may have its unique take on dragons, but there's a common understanding that dragons are large, serpent-like creatures renowned for their power, potential for destruction, and often, great wisdom. These fascinating beings have inspired countless adaptations in games, shows, plays, and movies, capturing the imagination of audiences worldwide.

When you hear "Dragon Movie," you might expect a film centered around these mythical creatures. However, despite their popularity in our culture, dragon-centric movies are surprisingly scarce. As such, our list includes films that feature dragons prominently, even if they aren't solely focused on them.

Now, let's dive into our curated selection of the best dragon movies of all time.

Top Dragon Movies of All Time

11 Images

10. Maleficent (2014)

Director: 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 tru TV, or rent on Amazon and other platforms

Kicking off our list, albeit less dragon-centric, is Disney's "Maleficent," a fresh take on the iconic villain from the 1959 classic "Sleeping Beauty." In this reimagining, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge for past betrayals by cursing Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning). While Maleficent herself doesn't transform into a dragon, she does use her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon towards the movie's climax.

9. Spirited Away (2001)

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: Available on Max, or rent on other platforms

"Spirited Away," directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki, features a dragon as more of a cameo within its enchanting narrative. This film follows Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) as she navigates a magical realm to save her parents, transformed into pigs. A white dragon, inspired by Japanese folklore, plays a crucial role in the plot and Chihiro's development.

For more gems like this, check out our list of the best Studio Ghibli movies.

8. The NeverEnding Story (1984)

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 the main focus, Falkor the 'Luck Dragon' from "The NeverEnding Story" is an unforgettable character. As a source of good fortune, Falkor aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Despite his limited screen time, Falkor's charm and importance to the story make him a beloved figure and a highlight of the film.

7. Pete’s Dragon (2016)

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: Available on Disney+, or rent on other platforms

A heartwarming remake of the 1977 original, "Pete's Dragon" tells the story of Elliott (Oakes Fegley), an orphaned boy who befriends a camouflaged dragon named Pete after a car crash leaves him stranded in the forest. The film blends elements of "Tarzan" and "The Iron Giant," creating a touching narrative that resonates with audiences.

6. Eragon (2006)

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: Available on Disney+, or rent on other platforms

Adapted from the popular young adult series, "Eragon" is primarily about dragons. The story follows a young farm boy, Eragon (Ed Speleers), who discovers a dragon egg and embarks on a heroic journey to defend his homeland, Alagaesia, with his dragon companion, Saphira. While the film offers thrilling dragon action, it's recommended to watch it before diving into the books for a better experience.

5. Dragonslayer (1981)

Director: 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 in the fantasy genre. The story follows a young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) who must slay a dragon threatening a nearby kingdom after his master's death. As the oldest film on our list, it earns its spot for its bold storytelling and creative choices.

4. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

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: Available on Max, or rent on other platforms

In the second installment of "The Hobbit" trilogy, "The Desolation of Smaug" expands on Tolkien's Middle-earth with an epic adventure. Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his company of Dwarves aim to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. Unique on our list, this film features the dragon's name in its title, and Smaug embodies the quintessential dragon traits of greed, cunning, and territoriality.

For a complete viewing experience, see our guide on watching the Lord of the Rings movies in order.

3. Reign of Fire (2002)

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 a thrilling action movie set in a modern world dominated by dragons. After a dragon is accidentally unearthed in 2020 England, it begins a reign of terror. With a stellar cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this film delivers an original concept and impressive effects, making it a standout dragon movie.

2. Dragonheart (1996)

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" offers a heartfelt yet cheesy take on dragon lore. The film follows dragonslaying knight Bowen (Dennis Quaid) who allies with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to overthrow an evil king. Draco's sophisticated nature and the buddy-cop chemistry between him and Bowen bring charm and humor to this endearing film.

1. How to Train your Dragon (2010)

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, "How to Train Your Dragon" is a captivating and heartwarming tale of friendship and discovery. Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), a young Viking aspiring to be a dragonslayer, forms an unlikely bond with a rare dragon, leading to a transformative journey that challenges his community's traditions. Rich with dragon lore and diverse dragon species, this film is not only a standout in the dragon genre but also a beloved animated classic.

We anticipate that the upcoming live-action "How to Train Your Dragon" set for release in June might join or even surpass this list.

What's the best dragon movie of all time? -----------------------------------------

How to Train Your DragonDragonheartEragonMaleficentSpirited AwayThe NeverEnding StoryPete's Dragon (2016)DragonslayerThe Hobbit: The Desolation of SmaugReign of FireSomething else (let us know in the comments!)

AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our 10 picks of the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons come in many forms, but we can all agree they are very good boys and girls. Are we missing your favorite fire breather? Let us know in the comments.

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.