10 Fantasy Films Set in Deserts

Description: Jim Henson's fantasy film features a world where the desert plays a crucial role in the journey of Jen, a Gelfling, to restore balance by healing the Dark Crystal. Its unique puppetry and world-building make it a standout.

Fact: The film took over five years to produce due to the intricate puppetry and animatronics.

Description: David Lynch's adaptation of Frank Herbert's epic novel, "Dune," transports us to the desert planet Arrakis, where spice, the most valuable substance in the universe, is mined. This film is a cornerstone of desert fantasy due to its intricate world-building and the portrayal of a harsh, yet mesmerizing environment.

Fact: The film's production was so complex that it led to the creation of a documentary, "Jodorowsky's Dune," about an earlier, unproduced version of the film.

Description: Disney's animated classic "Aladdin" takes place in the fictional desert city of Agrabah, where a street urchin finds a magic lamp. This film's vibrant depiction of desert life, magic, and adventure has made it a beloved fantasy tale.

Fact: The film's song "A Whole New World" won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Description: While not strictly a fantasy, "The Mummy" blends elements of adventure, horror, and fantasy in its depiction of ancient Egyptian curses and the desert setting of Hamunaptra. The film's mix of action, humor, and supernatural elements makes it a fun addition to this list.

Fact: The film was inspired by the 1932 film of the same name, but it takes a much lighter, more action-packed approach.

Description: Set in ancient Mesopotamia, "The Scorpion King" follows Mathayus, an Akkadian warrior, on his quest for vengeance. The film's desert setting and mythical creatures add to its fantasy allure.

Fact: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's first starring role in a feature film.

Description: In this sequel to "Pitch Black," Riddick navigates through various planets, including Crematoria, a desert world with extreme conditions. The film's mix of sci-fi and fantasy elements, along with its harsh desert setting, fits well into this collection.

Fact: The film was shot in British Columbia, Canada, to simulate various alien landscapes.

Description: Based on Edgar Rice Burroughs' "A Princess of Mars," this film follows John Carter, a Civil War veteran, who is transported to Mars (Barsoom), where he encounters a desert-like environment and becomes embroiled in a war.

Fact: The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following for its visual effects and world-building.

Description: Based on the video game, this film features a prince who must prevent a villain from unleashing the Sands of Time, which can reverse time. The desert landscapes and the magical dagger are key elements of its fantasy setting.

Fact: The film was shot in Morocco, providing authentic desert scenery.

Description: While not a traditional fantasy, "The Road" presents a post-apocalyptic world where a father and son journey through a desolate, desert-like landscape. The film's bleak, yet poetic portrayal of survival adds a unique flavor to this list.

Fact: The film was adapted from Cormac McCarthy's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

Description: "Stargate" combines sci-fi with fantasy elements as an ancient Egyptian device transports a team to a distant planet with a desert-like environment, ruled by a god-like alien.

Fact: The film spawned a successful TV franchise, including "Stargate SG-