If you were captivated by the magical storytelling and rich visuals of 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' (2022), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 movies and shows that share similar themes of fantasy, romance, and epic narratives. Whether you loved the film's exploration of ancient myths, its emotional depth, or its stunning cinematography, these recommendations will transport you to equally enchanting worlds. Dive in and discover your next favorite watch!

Big Fish (2003)
Description: 'Big Fish' shares with 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' a focus on the power of storytelling and the blurring of lines between reality and fantasy. Both films celebrate the magic of tales and their ability to shape our understanding of life and relationships. The whimsical and heartfelt tone of 'Big Fish' resonates with the emotional depth of 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'.
Fact: The film is based on Daniel Wallace's novel 'Big Fish: A Novel of Mythic Proportions'. Tim Burton was drawn to the project because of its themes of father-son relationships. The film features a cameo by Miley Cyrus as a young Ruthie.


The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Description: 'Walter Mitty' and 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' both celebrate the power of imagination and the transformative journey of their protagonists. Both films blend reality with fantastical elements, encouraging viewers to see the magic in everyday life. The uplifting and visually stunning nature of 'Walter Mitty' aligns with the emotional and aesthetic appeal of 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'.
Fact: The film is a modern adaptation of James Thurber's 1939 short story. Ben Stiller both directed and starred in the film. The soundtrack features songs by Of Monsters and Men and José González.


The Fountain (2006)
Description: 'The Fountain' and 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' both explore themes of love, mortality, and the passage of time through a mix of historical and fantastical elements. Both films use non-linear storytelling and visually stunning imagery to convey deep emotional and philosophical questions. The ethereal and dreamlike quality of 'The Fountain' mirrors the narrative style of 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'.
Fact: Director Darren Aronofsky originally planned to film with Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. The film's budget was significantly reduced, leading to a more abstract visual style. The score was composed by Clint Mansell, featuring the Kronos Quartet.


The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008)
Description: Both 'Benjamin Button' and 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' explore themes of time, love, and the human experience through unconventional narratives. The magical realism in 'Benjamin Button' mirrors the fantastical elements in 'Three Thousand Years of Longing', and both films use their unique premises to reflect on deeper existential questions.
Fact: The film is loosely based on a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald. Brad Pitt's face was digitally mapped onto other actors' bodies for the aging effects. The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Visual Effects.


Pan's Labyrinth (2006)
Description: 'Pan's Labyrinth' shares with 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' a blend of dark fantasy and historical drama, exploring themes of escapism, innocence, and the power of stories. Both films use fantastical elements to contrast with harsh realities, creating a poignant narrative about the human spirit. The visual storytelling in both films is rich with symbolism and intricate details.
Fact: The film is set in post-Civil War Spain. Guillermo del Toro considers it a spiritual sequel to 'The Devil's Backbone'. The Pale Man's design was inspired by Francisco Goya's paintings.


Stardust (2007)
Description: 'Stardust' and 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' both blend fantasy, romance, and adventure, creating enchanting narratives that transport viewers to magical worlds. Both films emphasize the transformative power of love and the importance of believing in the impossible. The lush visuals and fairy-tale quality of 'Stardust' align with the aesthetic of 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'.
Fact: The film is based on Neil Gaiman's novel of the same name. Robert De Niro's character was originally more serious in the book but was given a comedic twist for the film. Claire Danes learned to speak with a British accent for her role.


The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
Description: This film, like 'Three Thousand Years of Longing', delves into the realm of fantasy and the power of imagination. Both films feature characters who navigate between reality and fantastical worlds, exploring themes of destiny, choice, and the nature of stories. The visually inventive and surreal style of 'Doctor Parnassus' echoes the dreamlike quality of 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'.
Fact: Heath Ledger's untimely death led to Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell taking over his role. The film was dedicated to Ledger and producer William Vince. Terry Gilliam's direction creates a visually chaotic yet mesmerizing world.


The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
Description: Wes Anderson's 'The Grand Budapest Hotel' shares with 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' a love for intricate storytelling and visually rich aesthetics. Both films use a layered narrative structure and a blend of humor and melancholy to explore themes of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The whimsical yet poignant tone of Anderson's film resonates with the emotional depth of 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'.
Fact: The film was inspired by the writings of Stefan Zweig. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Original Score. The hotel's design was influenced by early 20th-century European architecture.


The Shape of Water (2017)
Description: Like 'Three Thousand Years of Longing', 'The Shape of Water' is a fantastical love story that explores themes of loneliness, connection, and the power of myth. Both films feature otherworldly beings and are set against a backdrop of human mundanity, highlighting the contrast between the ordinary and the extraordinary. Guillermo del Toro's signature visual style, much like George Miller's, creates a dreamlike and immersive experience.
Fact: Guillermo del Toro won the Academy Award for Best Director for this film. The creature was inspired by the Creature from the Black Lagoon. The film's color palette was deliberately chosen to reflect the protagonist's emotional journey.


The Green Knight (2021)
Description: Similar to 'Three Thousand Years of Longing', 'The Green Knight' is a visually stunning film that blends fantasy with deep philosophical and mythological themes. Both films explore the nature of storytelling and the human condition through surreal and dreamlike narratives. The lush cinematography and symbolic imagery in 'The Green Knight' mirror the rich visual aesthetics of 'Three Thousand Years of Longing'.
Fact: The film is based on the 14th-century poem 'Sir Gawain and the Green Knight'. Director David Lowery used natural lighting to create an authentic medieval atmosphere. The film's score was composed by Daniel Hart, who also worked on 'A Ghost Story'.
