10 Fantasy Films Exploring Democracy

Description: The film depicts a world where the Skeksis rule with an iron fist, contrasting with the Gelflings' more democratic and communal way of life, showcasing the struggle between oppressive rule and the quest for freedom.

Fact: The film was the first to use animatronics extensively, and it took five years to create all the puppets.

Description: The film touches on themes of freedom, the right to exist, and the struggle against oppressive forces, which can be seen as a metaphor for democratic values.

Fact: The film was directed by Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr., who were known for their stop-motion animation work.

Description: The story of Fantasia's decline and the quest to restore it can be interpreted as a fight for the preservation of a world where imagination and freedom reign, akin to democratic ideals.

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

Description: This beloved fairy tale includes a subplot where the people of Florin are ruled by a corrupt prince, highlighting the need for a just ruler and the power of the people to resist tyranny, echoing democratic ideals.

Fact: The film was adapted from William Goldman's novel, and the famous line "Inconceivable!" was improvised by Wallace Shawn.

Description: This film explores themes of power, control, and the struggle for autonomy, which can be seen as a commentary on democratic principles and the fight against oppressive rule.

Fact: The film was based on John Updike's novel, and Jack Nicholson improvised many of his lines, adding to the film's quirky charm.

Description: Willow's journey to save a baby from an evil queen and restore peace to the land reflects themes of resistance against tyranny and the quest for a just society.

Fact: The film was George Lucas's attempt to create a fantasy epic in the vein of Star Wars, and it introduced Warwick Davis to the world.

Description: The film explores the restoration of rightful governance in Gondor and the Shire, emphasizing the importance of just rule and the dangers of power, which are key democratic concerns.

Fact: The film won 11 Academy Awards, tying the record for the most Oscars won by a single film.

Description: The story of Narnia under the White Witch's rule reflects themes of tyranny and the fight for a just and fair society, paralleling democratic struggles.

Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, and the wardrobe used in the movie was made from a real 19th-century piece.

Description: This film features a kingdom where the succession is determined by a magical necklace, reflecting on the themes of power, legitimacy, and the will of the people, which are central to democratic thought.

Fact: The film's director, Matthew Vaughn, was initially hesitant to direct because he felt the book was unfilmable.

Description: While not directly about democracy, this film explores themes of leadership, power, and the consequences of greed, which are central to understanding democratic principles. The struggle for the Lonely Mountain and the governance of the Dwarves reflect on the importance of fair leadership and the dangers of tyranny.

Fact: The film features the largest green screen set ever built for a movie, and it was the first time Smaug was fully realized in live-action.