Sci-Fi Films Featuring Dwarfs

Description: In this Terry Gilliam classic, a group of time-traveling dwarfs kidnap a young boy for a series of adventures across history. Their small size aids in their stealthy escapades through time, making for a whimsical and imaginative sci-fi comedy.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a children's book by Gilliam and Michael Palin. Also, the character of Napoleon was played by Ian Holm, who later played a dwarf in "The Hobbit" films.

Description: While not exclusively about dwarfs, this film features the Gelflings, small creatures in a fantastical world, who embark on a quest to restore balance to their world. Their journey involves elements of science fiction with its advanced technology and mystical lore.

Fact: The film was a pioneering effort in puppetry and animatronics, with Jim Henson and Frank Oz creating a fully realized world. It was also one of the first films to use computer-generated imagery for some scenes.

Description: While not directly about dwarfs, the film features characters like Schmendrick the Magician, who is often portrayed as small and bumbling, adding a whimsical touch to the fantasy and sci-fi elements of the story.

Fact: The film was based on Peter S. Beagle's novel, and the voice cast included Mia Farrow, Alan Arkin, and Jeff Bridges.

Description: This animated film features Mrs. Brisby, a small mouse, whose journey to save her family involves encounters with intelligent rats who have been enhanced through scientific experiments, blending fantasy with elements of science fiction.

Fact: The film was directed by Don Bluth, who left Disney to create this and other films with a darker, more mature tone than typical animated features of the time.

Description: While primarily a fantasy, the film includes the character of Vizzini, a small-statured Sicilian criminal mastermind, whose cunning and intellect play a significant role in the plot, blending elements of sci-fi with fantasy.

Fact: The film's famous line, "Inconceivable!" was improvised by Wallace Shawn, who played Vizzini.

Description: This film features a group of characters, including a dwarf, who accompany the Baron on his fantastical journeys. Their adventures blend historical settings with fantastical and sci-fi elements.

Fact: The film was a financial disaster upon release but has since gained a cult following for its imaginative storytelling and visual effects.

Description: In the Star Wars universe, the character of Watto, a junk dealer, is portrayed as a small, winged creature with a dwarf-like appearance. His role in the plot involves trading and gambling, adding a unique flavor to the film's setting on Tatooine.

Fact: Watto was voiced by Andy Secombe, who also provided the voice for the character of Mr. Gruber in the British TV series "The Vicar of Dibley."

Description: Although not about dwarfs, the film includes a character named Dean, who is voiced by Harry Connick Jr., and his small, quirky workshop adds a touch of the fantastical to the sci-fi narrative.

Fact: The film was a box office failure but has since been recognized as a classic, with its themes of friendship and identity resonating with audiences.

Description: Featuring the character of Slartibartfast, who, although not a dwarf, is often depicted as small and quirky. His role in the creation of Earth's fjords adds a humorous touch to the sci-fi adventure.

Fact: The film includes a cameo by Douglas Adams, the original author of the book series, who appears as the man who asks for directions to the party.

Description: This film, part of the epic fantasy saga, features a company of dwarfs on a quest to reclaim their mountain home from the dragon Smaug. Their journey through Middle-earth is filled with adventure, magic, and the unique challenges faced by the dwarf characters.

Fact: The film was shot at 48 frames per second, giving it an unusually smooth visual experience. Also, the dwarf actors had to undergo extensive makeup and costume sessions to transform into their characters.