10 Fantasy Films Set in the Enchanting Amsterdam

10 Fantasy Films Set in the Enchanting Amsterdam Geographic Locations

Amsterdam, with its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, serves as a magical backdrop for fantasy films. This curated list of 10 fantasy movies not only showcases the city's enchanting atmosphere but also weaves tales of magic, adventure, and wonder. Whether you're a fan of whimsical fairy tales or dark, mystical narratives, these films will transport you to an Amsterdam beyond the ordinary, where the lines between reality and fantasy blur.

The City of Lost Children (1995)
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The City of Lost Children (1995)

Description: Although primarily set in a fictional city, some scenes were filmed in Amsterdam, giving the film a unique, otherworldly feel. The story revolves around a mad scientist who kidnaps children to steal their dreams.

Fact: The film's director, Jean-Pierre Jeunet, was inspired by the surreal atmosphere of Amsterdam for some of the movie's dream sequences.

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The Ninth Gate (1999)
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The Ninth Gate (1999)

Description: This film, while not exclusively set in Amsterdam, includes scenes where the protagonist searches for a rare book in the city's hidden corners, blending mystery with supernatural elements.

Fact: Roman Polanski, the director, chose Amsterdam for its rich history of occultism and its atmospheric setting.

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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
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The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

Description: While the story takes place in Narnia, scenes of the children's journey to the magical world are set in London and Amsterdam, with the latter's canals providing a magical transition.

Fact: The film's production team recreated parts of Amsterdam in New Zealand for the scenes where the children enter Narnia.

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The Illusionist (2006)
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The Illusionist (2006)

Description: Although set in Vienna, the film's magical atmosphere and themes of illusion and reality could easily be transposed to Amsterdam's enchanting setting.

Fact: The film's magic tricks were designed by renowned magician Ricky Jay, who also had a cameo in the movie.

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The Prestige (2006)
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The Prestige (2006)

Description: Similar to "The Illusionist," this film explores themes of magic and obsession, with scenes that could be imagined in Amsterdam's mystical backdrop.

Fact: The film's director, Christopher Nolan, was inspired by real-life magicians and their rivalries, which could resonate with Amsterdam's history of magic and illusion.

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The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010)
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The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010)

Description: While the main plot is set in New York, there are scenes where the characters travel to Amsterdam to retrieve a magical ring, highlighting the city's magical history.

Fact: The film's director, Jon Turteltaub, was inspired by the city's rich history of magic and mysticism for these scenes.

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The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
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The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)

Description: This surreal fantasy features a traveling theatre troupe led by Doctor Parnassus, who has made a deal with the Devil. Amsterdam's canals and bridges serve as a backdrop for some of the film's more fantastical scenes.

Fact: The film was Terry Gilliam's tribute to Heath Ledger, who passed away during filming, and features Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell stepping in to complete his role.

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The Last Witch Hunter (2015)
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The Last Witch Hunter (2015)

Description: While not set entirely in Amsterdam, the film features scenes in the city where the protagonist, an immortal witch hunter, seeks out magical artifacts. The city's mystical aura adds depth to the fantasy narrative.

Fact: Vin Diesel, who plays the lead, was fascinated by Amsterdam's history of witchcraft and incorporated it into the film's storyline.

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The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)
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The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)

Description: Though primarily set in Michigan, the film includes a sequence where the characters travel to Amsterdam to find a magical artifact, showcasing the city's mystical allure.

Fact: The film's magical clock was inspired by the real-life astronomical clock in Prague, but the Amsterdam setting was chosen for its historical connection to alchemy.

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The Secret Book of the Dead (2019)
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The Secret Book of the Dead (2019)

Description: This film follows a young bookshop owner in Amsterdam who discovers an ancient book that can bring the dead back to life, leading to unexpected consequences. The city's charm is highlighted as a setting for this dark fantasy.

Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in Amsterdam, utilizing the city's historic buildings and canals. The book featured in the movie is a prop designed by a local artist.

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