Fantasy Films Set in the Heart of New York

Description: This classic comedy-horror film introduces us to a group of parapsychologists turned ghost hunters in New York City. Their adventures not only save the city from supernatural threats but also weave a magical narrative around the city's landmarks.

Fact: The iconic Stay Puft Marshmallow Man was inspired by a childhood memory of one of the writers. Also, the film's special effects were groundbreaking for its time.

Description: Although set in a futuristic New York, this film's blend of sci-fi and fantasy elements, including a mystical being who must save the world, makes it a perfect fit for this list.

Fact: The film's unique visual style was heavily influenced by French comics, and it features one of the most memorable opera scenes in cinema.

Description: While not strictly fantasy, this sci-fi comedy features aliens living among us in New York City. The film's premise of a secret organization protecting Earth from extraterrestrial threats adds a fantastical layer to the city's everyday life.

Fact: The film was based on a comic book by Lowell Cunningham. The neuralyzer, a device used to erase memories, became an iconic piece of movie technology.

Description: While not exclusively set in New York, significant parts of this film take place in the city, where Hellboy and his team battle mythical creatures from folklore.

Fact: The film's director, Guillermo del Toro, is known for his love of fantasy and mythology, which is evident in the rich world-building of this sequel.

Description: A fairy tale princess from an animated world finds herself in the real-world New York City, blending traditional fairy tale elements with the city's modern chaos.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as an animated feature before being transformed into a live-action/animated hybrid.

Description: This Disney film brings the legend of Merlin to modern-day New York, where a young apprentice must harness his magical powers to save the city from an ancient evil.

Fact: The film was inspired by a segment from Disney's Fantasia, specifically "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" with Mickey Mouse.

Description: This film, directed by Terry Gilliam, involves a magical theater troupe traveling through New York, offering audiences a journey into their imaginations.

Fact: The film was completed after the death of Heath Ledger, with his role being taken over by Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell.

Description: This film explores the concept of fate and free will through a fantastical lens, with New York City as the stage for a man's struggle against a mysterious organization controlling human lives.

Fact: The film is loosely based on a Philip K. Dick short story, and the Bureau's headquarters was inspired by the New York Public Library.

Description: Based on the popular book series, this film follows a young girl discovering her destiny as a Shadowhunter in a hidden magical world within New York City.

Fact: The film was intended to kickstart a franchise, but due to mixed reviews and box office performance, plans for sequels were scrapped.

Description: Based on Stephen King's epic series, this film features a gunslinger from another dimension who arrives in New York to protect the universe's nexus of reality from an evil sorcerer.

Fact: The film was intended to be the first in a series, but due to its box office performance, plans for sequels were abandoned.