Step into the enchanting world of fantasy where women warriors not only exist but thrive, challenging the norms and leading the charge in battles of epic proportions. This curated list celebrates the strength, courage, and complexity of female characters in fantasy cinema, offering viewers a chance to see women in roles that are both empowering and inspiring. From ancient myths to futuristic dystopias, these films showcase the indomitable spirit of women warriors, making them a must-watch for anyone who loves a good adventure with a twist of magic and might.

The Princess of Mars (2012)
Description: Although the film focuses on John Carter, Dejah Thoris, the Princess of Helium, is a warrior in her own right, fighting for her people and her planet against invaders.
Fact: The film was based on Edgar Rice Burroughs' novel "A Princess of Mars," which inspired many sci-fi and fantasy works.


Wonder Woman (2017)
Description: This film introduces us to Diana Prince, an Amazonian princess-warrior who leaves her sheltered island home to fight in World War I and discover her full powers and true destiny. It's a perfect fit for our theme as it showcases a woman warrior in a fantasy setting, blending myth with historical events.
Fact: Gal Gadot, who plays Wonder Woman, was five months pregnant during some of the filming. The film was also the first live-action theatrical release to feature the character since the 1970s TV series.


The Legend of Tarzan (2016)
Description: Jane Porter, Tarzan's wife, proves herself as a warrior when she fights alongside Tarzan to save their friends and stop a slave trade operation, showcasing her bravery and resourcefulness.
Fact: Margot Robbie, who plays Jane, did most of her own stunts, including a scene where she jumps off a cliff.


The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
Description: Tauriel, an elf warrior, is introduced in this film, bringing a new dimension to the story with her combat skills and her role in the unfolding events of Middle-earth.
Fact: Evangeline Lilly, who plays Tauriel, was initially hesitant to join the cast, feeling that the character was not true to Tolkien's original work.


The Princess (2022)
Description: In this action-packed fantasy, a young royal trains in martial arts to escape her arranged marriage and save her kingdom from invaders. It's a fresh take on the damsel-in-distress trope, with the princess becoming her own savior.
Fact: The film was originally intended for a theatrical release but was sold to Hulu due to the ongoing global health situation.


The Last Witch Hunter (2015)
Description: While the main character is male, the film features Kaulder, a witch hunter, and his encounters with powerful witches, including a queen witch who commands an army of dark forces.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a TV series before being adapted into a feature film.


The Huntsman: Winter's War (2016)
Description: While not the main focus, this film features Freya, the Ice Queen, who leads an army of warriors, including women, in a battle against her sister, Ravenna. It's a tale of sisterhood, betrayal, and redemption, with strong female characters at its core.
Fact: Emily Blunt, who plays Freya, performed many of her own stunts, showcasing her physical prowess.


The Witch (2015)
Description: While more of a horror film, it delves into the supernatural with a young woman accused of witchcraft, who ultimately embraces her power, making her a warrior in her own right against societal norms.
Fact: The film uses authentic 17th-century English dialogue, which adds to its eerie atmosphere.


Mulan (2020)
Description: Based on the legendary warrior from Chinese folklore, this live-action adaptation follows Hua Mulan as she disguises herself as a man to take her father's place in the army, showcasing her bravery and skill in battle.
Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand and China, with some scenes filmed in the same locations as the original animated film.


The Scorpion King: Book of Souls (2018)
Description: Although part of a franchise known for male leads, this installment features a warrior princess who teams up with Mathayus to retrieve a powerful artifact. Her role as a warrior is central to the plot.
Fact: This was the first film in the series to be released directly to video.
