10 Fantasy Films Exploring Corruption

Description: In this Jim Henson classic, the Skeksis, who rule over the world of Thra, are a prime example of corruption through power. Their quest for eternal life and control over the Crystal of Truth showcases the decay of their once noble race into tyranny and greed.

Fact: The film was entirely shot with puppets, requiring over 100 puppeteers. It was one of the first films to use advanced animatronics for its characters.

Description: This animated film features King Haggard, whose obsession with unicorns and desire to possess their beauty leads to the corruption of his kingdom and the near extinction of the unicorns, showcasing the destructive nature of unchecked desire.

Fact: The film's script was adapted by Peter S. Beagle, who also wrote the original novel. The voice cast includes Mia Farrow, Jeff Bridges, and Alan Arkin.

Description: Though often seen as a fairy tale, the film subtly explores corruption through Prince Humperdinck, who uses his power to manipulate events for his own gain, including the kidnapping of Buttercup to start a war.

Fact: The film was initially considered a box office disappointment but has since become a beloved cult classic. The role of Inigo Montoya was almost given to Danny DeVito before Mandy Patinkin was cast.

Description: The film presents Queen Bavmorda as the epitome of corruption, using dark magic to maintain her rule and prevent the prophecy of her downfall, showing how power can corrupt even the most powerful.

Fact: The film was directed by Ron Howard and was George Lucas's first major project after the Star Wars trilogy. Val Kilmer's character, Madmartigan, was originally written for Harrison Ford.

Description: While not a traditional fantasy, the film's portrayal of the Grand High Witch and her coven as corrupt figures who use their powers for evil, showcases the theme of corruption through the misuse of magic and authority.

Fact: Anjelica Huston, who played the Grand High Witch, was nominated for a Saturn Award for Best Actress. The film's special effects for the witches' transformation were groundbreaking at the time.

Description: This adaptation of Philip Pullman's "His Dark Materials" series features the Magisterium, a corrupt religious authority that seeks to control and suppress free thought, paralleling real-world institutions that have historically wielded power through fear and manipulation.

Fact: The film's production was controversial due to its perceived anti-religious themes, leading to boycotts by some religious groups. The movie's daemon effects were created using a combination of CGI and animatronics.

Description: Set in post-Civil War Spain, this dark fantasy film intertwines the real-world corruption of fascism with the fantastical corruption within the mythical labyrinth. Captain Vidal's ruthless pursuit of power and control mirrors the corruption of the faun's world, where Ofelia must navigate moral choices.

Fact: The film was shot in Spain, with many scenes filmed in the actual locations where the Spanish Civil War took place. It won three Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography.

Description: While primarily a romantic fantasy, "Stardust" includes elements of corruption through the witch Lamia's quest for eternal youth, which involves killing her sisters to gain their power, and the corrupt royal family of Stormhold, who will stop at nothing to secure the throne.

Fact: The film features a cameo by Neil Gaiman, the author of the novel on which the movie is based. The character of Captain Shakespeare was originally intended to be a minor role but was expanded due to Robert De Niro's interest in the part.

Description: The film delves into themes of corruption through the Telmarine rule over Narnia, where the rightful heir, Prince Caspian, must reclaim his throne from the corrupt King Miraz, who has usurped power through deceit and murder.

Fact: The movie was filmed in New Zealand, the same location used for the Lord of the Rings films. The character of Reepicheep, the valiant mouse, was entirely CGI.

Description: This film explores the theme of corruption through the dragon Smaug, who has corrupted the once prosperous city of Erebor with his greed and lust for treasure. The journey of Bilbo Baggins and his companions to reclaim the mountain from Smaug's clutches showcases the corrupting influence of power and wealth.

Fact: The film's dragon, Smaug, was voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, who also provided motion capture for the character. The movie was filmed in 3D, enhancing the visual spectacle of Smaug's lair.