10 Fantasy Films About Trade

Description: In this dark fantasy, the Gelflings must navigate a world where trade and exchange are part of the survival strategy, especially when dealing with the Skeksis and other creatures of Thra.

Fact: The film was a pioneering work in puppetry and animatronics, with Jim Henson and Frank Oz heavily involved in its creation.

Description: The film includes a scene where Bastian, the protagonist, trades his lunch for a mysterious book, which leads him into the magical world of Fantasia. This act of trade sets the entire adventure in motion.

Fact: The film was shot in Germany, and the iconic flying scene with Falkor was done using a combination of animatronics and puppetry.

Description: Sarah's journey through the Labyrinth involves encounters with various creatures, some of whom offer trade or barter for assistance or information, highlighting the economic dynamics of this fantastical world.

Fact: David Bowie's character, Jareth, was inspired by the Goblin King from the Brothers Grimm fairy tale.

Description: While not directly about trade, the film features a marketplace scene where Inigo Montoya and Fezzik disguise themselves as vendors to capture Westley. This scene showcases the bustling trade environment of a fantasy world, adding depth to the setting.

Fact: The film was initially considered a flop but has since become a cult classic, beloved for its humor and memorable lines.

Description: Willow Ufgood, a farmer, becomes involved in a quest to protect a baby destined to defeat an evil queen. Along the way, he encounters various forms of trade, from magical items to services, which play a role in his journey.

Fact: George Lucas wrote the story for Willow, and it was originally intended to be a darker, more adult-oriented film.

Description: While primarily a dark comedy, the film includes scenes where witches use their powers to manipulate trade, like turning children into mice, which affects the local economy.

Fact: The film was directed by Nicolas Roeg, and Anjelica Huston's performance as the Grand High Witch is considered one of her most memorable roles.

Description: While not explicitly about trade, the film features scenes where characters engage in exchanges, like the Beavers trading with the children for food, showcasing the economic interactions in Narnia.

Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, and the White Witch's castle was inspired by the architecture of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul.

Description: In this enchanting tale, the protagonist, Tristan, ventures into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star, which turns out to be a young woman named Yvaine. The film explores the trade of magical items and the quest for a powerful gem, highlighting the economic aspects of a fantasy world.

Fact: The film was adapted from Neil Gaiman's novel, and the character of Captain Shakespeare was originally named Captain Alberic.

Description: In this modern take on the classic tale, the protagonist, Dave, learns about the magical economy where sorcerers trade spells and artifacts, which becomes central to his journey.

Fact: The film features a scene where Dave uses magic to animate a broom, a direct homage to the original "Fantasia" segment.

Description: This film features the bustling trade city of Laketown, where Bilbo Baggins and the dwarves seek to trade their goods for passage to the Lonely Mountain. The trade in Laketown is central to the plot, showcasing the economic and political dynamics of Middle-earth.

Fact: The city of Laketown was built on water to protect against dragon attacks, and the film's depiction of the town was inspired by the architecture of Venice.