Top 10 Fantasy Films About Legends

Description: A retelling of the Arthurian legend, this film focuses on the mystical sword Excalibur, King Arthur, and the Knights of the Round Table, exploring themes of power, betrayal, and redemption.

Fact: The film was shot in Ireland, and many of the sets were built in the Wicklow Mountains. It also features a young Helen Mirren as Morgana.

Description: This film introduces viewers to the world of Thra, where a Gelfling embarks on a quest to restore balance by healing the Dark Crystal, a legendary artifact.

Fact: Jim Henson, the creator of The Muppets, co-directed this film, which was a pioneering effort in puppetry and animatronics.

Description: While not strictly a legend, this film has become legendary in its own right, blending fairy tale elements with humor and romance, telling the story of a farmhand who must rescue his true love from an evil prince.

Fact: The film was initially a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following. It was based on a novel by William Goldman.

Description: Based on Michael Crichton's novel "Eaters of the Dead," this film follows an Arab diplomat who joins a band of Viking warriors to fight a legendary beast, exploring themes of cultural clash and heroism.

Fact: The film was initially a box office failure but has since found a following for its unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy.

Description: This epic saga, based on J.R.R. Tolkien's masterpiece, introduces us to the legendary quest to destroy the One Ring, weaving together tales of heroism, friendship, and the battle between good and evil.

Fact: The film was shot simultaneously with its sequels to maintain continuity in the aging of the actors. It also won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This animated retelling of the Old English epic poem follows the legendary warrior Beowulf as he battles monsters and faces his own destiny, exploring themes of heroism, legacy, and the human condition.

Fact: The film used motion capture technology to create the characters, with actors like Ray Winstone and Angelina Jolie lending their voices and movements.

Description: Set in post-Civil War Spain, this dark fantasy tells the story of Ofelia, who enters a mythical labyrinth and encounters creatures from ancient legends, blending reality with fantasy.

Fact: The film was shot in Spain, and director Guillermo del Toro designed many of the creatures himself.

Description: Inspired by the legend of Merlin, this film follows a modern-day apprentice to a powerful sorcerer, exploring themes of magic, destiny, and the eternal battle between good and evil.

Fact: The film includes a sequence inspired by the famous "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" segment from Disney's Fantasia.

Description: This film retells the myth of Hercules, focusing on his early life, his love, and his quest to reclaim his rightful place, showcasing the legendary strength and trials of the demigod.

Fact: The film was released in 3D and features a mix of CGI and practical effects to bring the ancient world to life.

Description: Continuing the journey from "The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey," this film delves deeper into the legend of Smaug, the dragon, and Bilbo Baggins' role in the quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain.

Fact: The film features an extended sequence with Smaug, voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch, which was highly praised for its visual effects and character animation.