Canada, with its vast landscapes and rich cultural tapestry, has inspired numerous filmmakers to craft tales of magic, adventure, and wonder. This curated list of fantasy films showcases the enchanting side of Canada, blending its natural beauty with imaginative storytelling. Whether you're a fan of mythical creatures, epic quests, or just love a good fantasy tale, these films will transport you to a Canada that exists in the realm of dreams and legends.

The Secret of Roan Inish (1994)
Description: This film, while set in Ireland, captures the essence of remote, mystical islands similar to those found along Canada's Atlantic coast. It follows a young girl who discovers her family's connection to the mythical selkies.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Ireland, but its themes of folklore and connection to nature are universally appealing. It was adapted from the book "The Secret of Ron Mor Skerry" by Rosalie K. Fry.


The Edge (1997)
Description: While not explicitly about Canada, the film's wilderness setting and survival themes echo the vast Canadian landscapes. It follows a billionaire and his companions who must survive after a plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness.
Fact: The film was shot in British Columbia, Canada, showcasing its rugged beauty. It features a bear attack scene that was praised for its realism.


The Last Winter (2006)
Description: Set in the Arctic, this film blends elements of horror and fantasy, exploring themes of environmental impact and supernatural phenomena. An oil company's drilling operation in Alaska leads to eerie and inexplicable events.
Fact: The film was shot in Iceland, but its themes and setting resonate with the Canadian North. It was directed by Larry Fessenden, known for his work in eco-horror.


The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
Description: While not directly about Canada, this film features stunning landscapes reminiscent of the Canadian Rockies, making it a perfect fit for this list. The adventure continues as Bilbo Baggins and the company of dwarves journey through the treacherous Mirkwood forest, encountering giant spiders and the mighty dragon Smaug.
Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, but many scenes were inspired by Canadian landscapes. The dragon Smaug was voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch.


The Grey (2011)
Description: This survival thriller, set in the Alaskan wilderness, captures the spirit of the Canadian North with its unforgiving environment and the struggle for survival against nature.
Fact: The film was shot in British Columbia, Canada, and Alaska. It explores themes of faith, survival, and the human spirit.


The Revenant (2015)
Description: Although set in the American frontier, the film's portrayal of the harsh wilderness and survival against all odds mirrors the Canadian experience. It follows Hugh Glass, a fur trapper left for dead after a bear mauling.
Fact: The film was shot in Alberta, Canada, and Argentina. Leonardo DiCaprio won an Oscar for Best Actor for his role.


The Witch (2015)
Description: Set in 1630s New England, this film's eerie atmosphere and themes of isolation and witchcraft could easily be transposed to the Canadian wilderness. It follows a Puritan family's descent into paranoia and fear.
Fact: The film was shot in Ontario, Canada, and uses the natural landscape to enhance its chilling narrative. It was praised for its historical accuracy and atmospheric tension.


The Shape of Water (2017)
Description: Although set in the United States, the film's themes of isolation and connection resonate with the Canadian wilderness. It tells the story of a mute janitor who forms a unique bond with an amphibious creature held in a secret government facility.
Fact: The film won four Oscars, including Best Picture. Director Guillermo del Toro drew inspiration from various fairy tales and the idea of a "Beauty and the Beast" story set in the Cold War era.


The Snow Walker (2003)
Description: This Canadian film tells the story of a bush pilot who crashes in the Arctic and is saved by an Inuit woman. It's a tale of survival, friendship, and the mystical connection to the land.
Fact: The film was shot in Nunavut, showcasing the harsh beauty of the Canadian Arctic. It's based on the short story "Walk Well, My Brother" by Farley Mowat.


The Lost City of Z (2016)
Description: While not directly about Canada, the film's exploration of unknown territories and the quest for lost civilizations resonates with the Canadian spirit of adventure. It follows the true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett.
Fact: The film was shot in Colombia, but its themes of exploration and the unknown are universal. It stars Charlie Hunnam and Robert Pattinson.
