Top 10 Fantasy Films Exploring Greed

Description: The Skeksis, particularly the Chamberlain, exhibit greed for power and immortality, which leads to the corruption of their world. Their greed is a central theme in the film's narrative of balance and restoration.

Fact: The film was a collaboration between Jim Henson and Frank Oz, using advanced puppetry techniques. It was the first feature film to use animatronics extensively.

Description: King Haggard's greed for immortality and beauty leads him to capture all the unicorns in the world, leaving only one to escape. His greed for what he cannot have is a poignant theme in this animated classic.

Fact: The film features voices by Mia Farrow, Jeff Bridges, and Alan Arkin. The animation was done by Topcraft, a precursor to Studio Ghibli.

Description: While not directly about greed, the film explores themes of power and control through the rats of NIMH, who have gained intelligence and seek to escape their lab conditions, reflecting a desire for a better life, which can be seen as a form of greed for freedom.

Fact: The film was directed by Don Bluth, who left Disney to create this and other independent animated features. It was one of the first animated films to use computer-generated imagery for some scenes.

Description: Greed is subtly portrayed through the character of the Empress, whose inaction due to her desire to maintain her power leads to the decay of Fantasia. The film explores how personal greed can have far-reaching consequences.

Fact: The film was shot in Germany, and the original German version has a different ending from the English version. The iconic song "The NeverEnding Story" was performed by Limahl.

Description: The Horned King's greed for power and immortality through the use of the Black Cauldron drives the plot. His desire to raise an army of the dead to conquer the world is a dark exploration of greed.

Fact: This was Disney's first animated film to receive a PG rating. It was based on Lloyd Alexander's "The Chronicles of Prydain."

Description: While not solely about greed, the character of Vizzini, who kidnaps Buttercup for ransom, embodies greed in his pursuit of wealth and power. His greed leads to comedic and perilous situations, highlighting the folly of such desires.

Fact: The film was adapted from William Goldman's novel of the same name, and the author also wrote the screenplay. The famous line "Inconceivable!" became a catchphrase due to Vizzini's frequent use of it.

Description: The antagonist, Queen Bavmorda, is driven by her greed for power, leading her to commit heinous acts to maintain her rule. Her greed contrasts with Willow's selfless journey to protect the baby Elora Danan.

Fact: George Lucas wrote the story, and the film was originally intended to be a sequel to "The Dark Crystal." Val Kilmer improvised many of his lines, adding humor to the film.

Description: The White Witch, Jadis, embodies greed as she seeks to rule Narnia with an iron fist, using her power to keep the land in eternal winter. Her greed for power and control is a driving force in the story.

Fact: Tilda Swinton, who played Jadis, was chosen for her ability to portray both beauty and cruelty. The film was shot in New Zealand, the same location as "The Lord of the Rings."

Description: The film explores themes of power and greed through the character of Maxim Horvath, who seeks to gain control over the world by harnessing ancient magic. His greed for power drives the narrative forward.

Fact: The film was inspired by the segment of the same name in Disney's "Fantasia." Nicolas Cage, who plays Balthazar Blake, also performed his own stunts.

Description: This film follows Bilbo Baggins and his companions as they journey to reclaim the treasure guarded by the dragon Smaug, whose greed has led him to amass a fortune at the cost of the lives of many. The theme of greed is central as Smaug's obsession with his hoard drives the plot.

Fact: Benedict Cumberbatch, who voiced Smaug, also provided motion capture for the dragon's movements. The film was shot in 3D at 48 frames per second, a technique that enhances the visual experience of the fantasy world.