Magical Beginnings: Fantasy Films About the First Day of School

Description: This film introduces us to Harry Potter, an eleven-year-old wizard who learns of his magical heritage and starts his first year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The first day at Hogwarts sets the stage for a world of magic, friendship, and the beginning of a legendary saga.

Fact: The film was shot at Alnwick Castle in Northumberland, England, which served as the exterior of Hogwarts. The iconic Hogwarts Express was filmed on the real-life Jacobite Steam Train.

Description: Though not explicitly about school, Arrietty's first encounter with the human world can be likened to a first day at a new school, where she learns about the larger world and her place within it.

Fact: This Studio Ghibli film is based on Mary Norton's book "The Borrowers," and it was the first Studio Ghibli film to be released in 3D.

Description: Quentin Coldwater, a young man obsessed with a series of fantasy novels, discovers that magic is real and begins his education at Brakebills University for Magical Pedagogy. His first day at this hidden school is the beginning of a complex journey through magic and self-discovery.

Fact: The TV series is based on Lev Grossman's novels, which are often described as "Harry Potter for adults" due to their darker themes and mature content.

Description: Mildred Hubble, an aspiring witch, starts her first day at Miss Cackle's Academy for Witches, where she faces the challenges of fitting in and mastering magic. Her adventures and misadventures make for a charming introduction to the world of witchcraft.

Fact: The film was adapted from Jill Murphy's children's book series, and it spawned a TV series in the 1990s.

Description: Jake Portman discovers a mysterious orphanage where children with unique abilities live in a time loop, experiencing the same day over and over. His first day at this peculiar school introduces him to a world of wonder and danger.

Fact: The film is based on the novel by Ransom Riggs, which uses real vintage photographs to tell its story. Tim Burton, known for his gothic and whimsical style, directed this adaptation.

Description: Best friends Sophie and Agatha find themselves at the School for Good and Evil, where students are trained to become heroes or villains. Their first day at this fantastical school sets them on a path of self-discovery and unexpected alliances.

Fact: The film is based on the first book of a series by Soman Chainani. It features an ensemble cast including Charlize Theron and Kerry Washington.

Description: While not a traditional school setting, this series features young Gelflings learning about their world and their roles within it, which can be seen as a metaphorical first day at a school of life and resistance.

Fact: The series is a prequel to the 1982 film "The Dark Crystal" and uses advanced puppetry and CGI to bring the world to life.

Description: In this lesser-known fantasy, a young girl named Sarah is whisked away to a magical academy where she learns to be a princess. Her first day at the academy is filled with enchanting lessons and the realization of her royal destiny.

Fact: This film was one of the early direct-to-video releases and has since become a cult classic among fantasy enthusiasts.

Description: A group of young girls attend a school where they learn the art of being princesses, but their first day is anything but ordinary when they encounter a magical adventure that tests their newfound skills.

Fact: This film was part of the "Barbie" animated series, showcasing the brand's venture into fantasy narratives.

Description: A young princess starts her first day at a magical academy where she learns the responsibilities of royalty and the magic that comes with it. Her journey is filled with lessons in courage, friendship, and the power of dreams.

Fact: This film was part of a series of animated films aimed at teaching children about values and virtues through magical storytelling.