Best Fantasy Films With Unique Worlds

Summary

• Fantasy movies transport audiences to unique worlds, brought to life through big-budget productions that blend practical sets, elaborate costumes, and stunning visual effects.
• Notable examples of fantasy films featuring magical worlds include Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves, Warcraft, Wicked, Stardust, and The Chronicles of Narnia.
• The Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings films remain the pinnacle of the fantasy genre, renowned for their richly detailed settings and unforgettable storytelling.

One of the most captivating aspects of fantasy films is their ability to transport viewers into unique, imaginary worlds, often blending familiar elements with entirely fictional creations. These high-budget productions frequently feature elaborate practical sets, intricate costumes, and stunning visual effects to bring their dazzling settings to life. Whether it’s magic and wizards, fearless knights, quirky heroes, mythical creatures, or darker themes of unspeakable evil, hidden civilizations, and lands governed by unconventional rules, the best fantasy films offer unforgettable journeys and epic high-stake quests.

In this ranking of the best fantasy films with unique worlds, we’ll focus exclusively on live-action movies that offer distinct settings, with a huge emphasis on unique worlds brimming with unexpected discoveries and amusing moments. Additionally, to ensure a diverse selection, only one film per expansive fictional universe (such as Harry Potter or Middle-earth) will be included, allowing to highlight as many original fantasy settings as possible.

Honorable mentions:

These movies shouldn’t be overlooked by fans of fantasy elements and unique settings. However, since they may not place as strong an emphasis on their fictional worlds or lean too heavily into familiar real-world settings, they are only worth mentioning:

• Pirates Of The Caribbean: The Curse Of The Black Pearl (2003)
• Maleficent (2014)
• The Green Knight (2021)
• King Arthur: Legend Of The Sword (2017)
• Thor (2011)

10

Warcraft (2016)

Fantasy World Of Azeroth Created By Allen Adham, Frank Pearce, And Michael Morhaime

• Runtime: 2h 3m
• Estimated budget: $160 million
• Directed by: Duncan Jones
• Cast: Travis Fimmel, Toby Kebbell, Dominic Cooper, Paula Patton

One of the biggest and most expensive video game adaptations to date, Warcraft brings two fantasy worlds to life: the orcs’ dying homeworld, Draenor, and the human realm of Azeroth, both rendered in stunning detail. The film’s visuals are its strongest asset, making it a spectacle worth watching even for casual viewers unfamiliar with Blizzard’s iconic games.

Packed with CGI orcs and other beings, powerful magic, intense action sequences, mythical creatures, and towering knights wielding massive swords, Warcraft embraces classic fantasy tropes while still managing to carve out its own identity. Despite becoming the highest-grossing video game adaptation at the time (before The Super Mario Bros. Movie and Sonic the Hedgehog 3), the film received no sequels, even though one was once in development.

9

Aquaman (2018)

Fantasy World Of The Atlantis Kingdom By Paul Norris And Mort Weisinger

• Runtime: 2h 23m
• Estimated budget: $160 million
• Directed by: James Wan
• Cast: Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Patrick Wilson, Willem Dafoe

The DC Universe has its share of fantasy-infused superhero blockbusters, and Aquaman stands out as the most notable. As the highest-grossing DCEU film, Aquaman thrives on its breathtaking depiction of the underwater Kingdom of Atlantis, delivering an epic and visually stunning adventure.

Atlantis is undeniably the film’s true star, brought to life by director James Wan in a spectacular, unrestrained fashion. With its distinct underwater architecture, colossal sea creatures, diverse aquatic tribes, and their rulers of all shapes and forms, the film seamlessly blends sci-fi and fantasy elements. Layered with ancient myths and little concern for realism, Aquaman offers a dazzling, high-energy spectacle that will captivate both superhero fans and fantasy lovers eager to explore fantastical realms on screen.

8

Stardust (2007)

Magical Fantasy World Of Stormhold Created By Neil Gaiman And Charles Vess

• Runtime: 2h 7m
• Estimated budget: $70 million
• Directed by: Matthew Vaughn
• Cast: Charlie Cox, Claire Danes, Robert De Niro, Michelle Pfeiffer

Both lighthearted and dark, filled with romance, humor, action, and adventure, Stardust is an often-overlooked fantasy gem that invites audiences into the magical kingdom of Stormhold. With its perfect blend of enchanted lands, wicked witches, flying pirate ships, celestial beauties, and dashing swordsmen, Matthew Vaughn crafts an exhilarating fairy tale that appeals to viewers of all ages.

This adaptation had a challenging journey, with significant portions of the original novel left out during the scriptwriting process, most notably, an intriguing subplot involving vampires that would have extended the runtime. Despite these changes, the final result is still one of the finest standalone fantasy adaptations, brimming with charm and excitement.

7

Shang-Chi And The Legend Of The Ten Rings (2021)

Fantasy Land Created By Steve Englehart And Jim Starlin

• Runtime: 2h 12m
• Estimated budget: $200 million
• Directed by: Destin Daniel Cretton
• Cast: Simu Liu, Awkwafina, Tony Leung Chiu-Wai, Michelle Yeoh

Like DC, the Marvel Cinematic Universe features several fantasy-infused superhero films that introduce new realms and mystical lands, including Thor‘s Asgard, Black Panther‘s Wakanda, and Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings‘ mythical village of Ta Lo. The latter is probably the most fitting blend of fantasy and superhero genres, deeply rooted in ancient Chinese legends. It delivers a breathtaking spectacle filled with mythical creatures, dragons, vibrant magic, and stunning wuxia-inspired martial arts.

While much of Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings takes place in the modern world (typical of Marvel films), Ta Lo plays a significant role in both the prologue and final act. Moreover, it holds great potential for further exploration in future installments. With Shang-Chi 2 currently in development, fans have enough reasons to be excited about a possible return to Ta Lo and its ancient secrets.

6

Wicked: Part One (2024)

Magical Fantasy World Of Oz Created By L. F. Baum And Gregory Maguire

• Runtime: 2h 40m
• Estimated budget: $150 million
• Directed by: Jon M. Chu
• Cast: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh

The origins of Wicked are a fascinating tale in themselves. This immensely popular and successful fantasy musical is an adaptation of the stage play, which is loosely based on Gregory Maguire’s novel, which is, in turn, a reimagining of the classic Wizard of Oz books by Lyman Frank Baum. Regardless of its layered history, Wicked is set in the beloved fantasy world of the Land of Oz, blending familiar and fresh elements of fantasy, fairy tale, and even steampunk to spectacular effect.

While the characters and their songs take center stage in this two-part musical adaptation, the heart of it all remains the journey through the captivating Land of Oz. This version is arguably the most vibrant and visually stunning rendition of Oz yet, surpassing even the $200-million Oz the Great and Powerful (2013). With its striking architecture, vivid colors, mythical and mechanical beings, and the chance to see Shiz Sorcery University brought to life, Wicked promises an enchanting and immersive adventure — perhaps the best cinematic ticket to Oz yet.

5

The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe (2005)

Fantasy World Of Narnia Created By Clive S. Lewis

• Runtime: 2h 23m
• Estimated budget: $180 million
• Directed by: Andrew Adamson
• Cast: Georgie Henley, Tilda Swinton, James McAvoy

The original Chronicles of Narnia adaptations may never have reached the heights of Harry Potter or The Lord of the Rings, but they remain among the most notable cinematic fantasy adventures to date. Based on the classic portal fantasy novels by C.S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe primarily cater to younger audiences, following a group of children who find themselves transported to the magical world of Narnia: a realm filled with breathtaking landscapes, mythical creatures, talking animals, and power-hungry witches and tyrants.

One of the series’ unique traits is the passage of time in Narnia, which progresses differently from the real world. Each visit introduces new eras, characters, and elements, keeping the stories fresh and immersive. Unfortunately, despite there being seven books in the series, plans for additional film adaptations were abandoned after Prince Caspian and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader underperformed at the box office. Luckily, Netflix has recently announced new plans to bring beloved books to the screen, so fans have to stay patient.

4

Hellboy 2: The Golden Army (2008)

Superhero Fantasy World Created By Michael Mignola

• Runtime: 2h
• Estimated budget: $85 million
• Directed by: Guillermo del Toro
• Cast: Ron Perlman, Doug Jones, Selma Blair

Master of the fantasy genre, Guillermo del Toro achieved greatness with Hellboy 2: The Golden Army, blending genres in his adaptation of Mike Mignola’s comic book. The result is a fantastical journey infused with steampunk and horror elements. With refined character archetypes and an absorbing story, one that, unfortunately, never received its true resolution, Hellboy 2 remains one of the finest sequels ever made and one of the most visually stunning fantasy worlds ever captured on camera.

The film’s abundance of fantastical creatures, each with an unhinged and intricate design, is a signature of del Toro’s work and a primary reason to watch The Golden Army. Combined with a richly detailed world that feels real and lived-in, intense action sequences, a mesmerizing score, and deeply human, relatable characters, Hellboy 2 stands as a uniquely charming fantasy-superhero hybrid — one that no other filmmaker has been able to replicate.

3

Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves (2023)

Fantasy D&D World Created By Gary Gygax And Dave Arneson

• Runtime: 2h 14m
• Estimated budget: $150 million
• Directed by: John Francis Daley, Jonathan Goldstein
• Cast: Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Justice Smith, Sophia Lillis, Hugh Grant

One of the most surprisingly well-crafted fantasy films in recent years, Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is an almost perfect entry in the legendary D&D franchise. Both thrilling and fun, the film appeals to dedicated fans and casual audiences alike. Given that the franchise’s history spans over 50 years, some fantasy elements may feel familiar or even overused, but that’s simply a testament to how immensely influential D&D has been in shaping the fantasy genre.

Brimming with wit, humor, and lighthearted charm, Honor Among Thieves balances its playful tone with exciting action sequences and strong character dynamics. At the same time, the film stays true to its roots, filled with D&D-specific nods and mechanics that reinforce its unpredictable nature. The adventure is expansive, taking audiences through diverse locales and delivering unforgettable moments: whether it’s a Mimic encounter, massive monsters, necromancy spells gone wrong, sudden captivity, or the kind of chaotic, last-minute planning that any D&D player will appreciate.

2

Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire (2005)

Magic World Of Hogwarts Created By Joanne K. Rowling

• Runtime: 2h 37m
• Estimated budget: $150 million
• Directed by: Mike Newell
• Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Robert Pattinson

The Harry Potter films are remarkable in how they maintained an exceptional level of quality for over a decade, remaining cohesive despite changes in directors and evolving tonal shifts — something that, unfortunately, cannot be said about the Fantastic Beasts spinoffs. While Sorcerer’s Stone is an obvious contender for its role in introducing audiences to the enchanting world of Hogwarts, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire represents one of the most adventurous chapters. It strikes an almost perfect balance between the charming tone of the early films and the growing darkness of the later installments.

J.K. Rowling’s magical world is as meticulously crafted as its characters and storylines, filled with unique creatures, rich lore, and an overarching sense of wonder and discovery that each new film delivers. Regardless of personal favorites, the Harry Potter franchise remains one of the most immersive and beloved fantasy worlds in cinema. With the upcoming Max series on the horizon, it will be interesting to see how this universe is reimagined and what new elements it will introduce.

1

The Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Of The Ring (2001)

Fantasy World Of Middle-Earth Created By John R.R. Tolkien

• Runtime: 2h 58m
• Estimated budget: $93 million
• Directed by: Peter Jackson
• Cast: Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Sean Astin, Viggo Mortensen, Orlando Bloom

J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth remains one of the most iconic and influential fantasy settings ever created, and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring is among its finest adaptations. From its masterful introduction of the story and characters, enhanced by impeccable casting and costumes, to its breathtaking array of locations like the Shire, Isengard, Moria, and Rivendell, and Howard Shore’s legendary score — the film is an adventure brimming with wonder and thrills. This cinematic masterpiece is nearly impossible to top, as evidenced by the bloated spectacle of Jackson’s own Hobbit films.

While it lacks the large-scale battles of its sequels, The Fellowship of the Ring is a perfectly paced journey, balancing high-stakes adventure, quieter emotional moments, and breathtaking landscapes, without leaning too heavily into the dark oppressiveness of Mordor. Every scene serves a purpose, ensuring that no moment feels wasted or dull. Alongside the rest of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Fellowship of the Ring reigns as one of the most beloved and endlessly rewatchable fantasy films of all time that remains just as enthralling on the tenth viewing as it was on the first.