Fantasy Films Tackling Discrimination

Fantasy Films Tackling Discrimination society_and_social_issues

Fantasy films often serve as a mirror to our society, reflecting its virtues and vices through magical realms and mythical creatures. This curated list of 10 fantasy films explores the theme of discrimination, providing viewers with not only an escape into fantastical worlds but also a deeper understanding of real-world issues. These films use allegory and metaphor to address themes of prejudice, inequality, and the fight for acceptance, making them both entertaining and thought-provoking.

The Dark Crystal (1982)
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The Dark Crystal (1982)

Description: This Jim Henson classic uses a world where the Skeksis rule over the gentle Gelflings, showcasing themes of discrimination and the struggle for power. The film's narrative reflects on societal issues through its fantasy setting.

Fact: The film was entirely shot using puppets and animatronics, with no CGI, making it a pioneering work in fantasy filmmaking.

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The Last Unicorn (1982)
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The Last Unicorn (1982)

Description: This animated film follows a unicorn on a quest to find her kind, facing discrimination from humans who see her as a myth or a threat. It's a poignant exploration of identity and acceptance.

Fact: The film features voice acting by Mia Farrow, Jeff Bridges, and Alan Arkin, with a memorable score by Jimmy Webb.

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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 primarily a children's adventure, this film subtly addresses themes of discrimination through the allegorical representation of good versus evil, with creatures like the talking animals facing prejudice from the White Witch's regime.

Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, with many scenes filmed in the same locations used for "The Lord of the Rings."

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The Golden Compass (2007)
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The Golden Compass (2007)

Description: In a parallel universe where humans' souls manifest as animals called daemons, the film explores themes of discrimination through the Magisterium's control over free will and the suppression of certain groups.

Fact: The film's production was controversial due to its source material's perceived anti-religious themes.

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Pan's Labyrinth (2006)
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Pan's Labyrinth (2006)

Description: Set in post-Civil War Spain, this dark fantasy intertwines the harsh reality of fascism with a magical world where a young girl must complete three tasks to prove her nobility. The film uses its fantasy elements to critique the oppressive regime, highlighting themes of discrimination and resistance.

Fact: The film was shot in Spain, and the faun's costume was so heavy that actor Doug Jones could only wear it for short periods.

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The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
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The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

Description: While not directly about discrimination, the film explores themes of prejudice through the Elves' distrust of Dwarves, highlighting the consequences of long-standing racial tensions in Middle-earth.

Fact: The film features one of the most detailed and realistic dragon characters in cinema, Smaug, voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch.

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A Wrinkle in Time (2018)
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A Wrinkle in Time (2018)

Description: This adaptation of Madeleine L'Engle's novel uses its fantastical elements to address themes of conformity and the acceptance of differences, with the main character learning to embrace her unique abilities.

Fact: The film features an all-star cast including Oprah Winfrey, Reese Witherspoon, and Mindy Kaling.

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The Shape of Water (2017)
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The Shape of Water (2017)

Description: In this enchanting tale, a mute woman forms an unlikely bond with an amphibian creature held captive by the government. The film subtly explores themes of discrimination against those who are different, using the creature's plight as a metaphor for societal exclusion.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Picture, and the creature was designed by the legendary makeup artist Doug Jones.

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Bright (2017)
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Bright (2017)

Description: In a world where humans, orcs, elves, and fairies coexist, a human cop and an orc partner must overcome racial tensions to solve a case. The film uses fantasy elements to explore themes of racial discrimination and prejudice.

Fact: The film was Netflix's first major attempt at a blockbuster fantasy film, featuring Will Smith in a leading role.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
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The Princess and the Magical Kingdom (2019)
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The Princess and the Magical Kingdom (2019)

Description: This animated film tells the story of a princess who must navigate a kingdom where different species are segregated. It's a light-hearted yet poignant look at discrimination, promoting unity and understanding among diverse groups.

Fact: The film was inspired by classic fairy tales but modernized to address contemporary issues of discrimination.

This movie is not available on Amazon Prime, but you can use the bonus:
Amazon Prime Video 30 Days Free
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