10 Movies and Shows Similar to Hansel and Gretel (1988)

Description: Both 'The Dark Crystal' and 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988) are dark fantasy films that use puppetry and practical effects to create their worlds. The films share a sense of wonder and danger, with young protagonists facing overwhelming odds. The gothic visual style and eerie atmosphere are also comparable.

Fact: Directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz. The film was groundbreaking for its use of puppetry and animatronics. It has since spawned a prequel series on Netflix.

Description: Like 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988), 'The Company of Wolves' is a dark fantasy film that reinterprets fairy tales with a focus on horror and psychological depth. Both films use surreal and dreamlike visuals to create an unsettling atmosphere. The themes of transformation and danger lurking in the woods are central to both stories.

Fact: Directed by Neil Jordan, who later gained fame for 'The Crying Game'. The film is based on Angela Carter's short stories, which reimagine fairy tales. It features groundbreaking special effects for its time.

Description: Like 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988), 'The NeverEnding Story' is a fantasy film that explores a child's journey through a magical and sometimes terrifying world. Both films balance wonder and danger, with themes of courage and resilience. The imaginative creatures and settings are also similar.

Fact: Based on the novel by Michael Ende. The film's theme song became a hit. It was one of the most expensive films produced outside the U.S. at the time.

Description: 'Legend' and 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988) both feature dark fairy-tale aesthetics and young heroes battling supernatural evil. The films share a lush, gothic visual style and a focus on the battle between light and darkness. The use of practical effects and elaborate sets creates a immersive fantasy world in both films.

Fact: Directed by Ridley Scott. Stars Tom Cruise in one of his early roles. The film has multiple versions with different soundtracks.

Description: 'Labyrinth' and 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988) both feature young protagonists navigating fantastical, perilous worlds. The films share a sense of adventure and danger, with a mix of humor and horror. The imaginative creature designs and dark fairy-tale elements are also similar.

Fact: Stars David Bowie as the Goblin King. Directed by Jim Henson, known for his work with puppetry. The film initially underperformed at the box office but became a cult classic.

Description: 'Willow' and 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988) both feature young protagonists on a quest in a fantastical world filled with danger. The films share a mix of adventure, humor, and dark fantasy elements. The practical effects and creature designs in both films create a tangible sense of magic and peril.

Fact: Directed by Ron Howard. The film was a collaboration between George Lucas and Warwick Davis. It has since gained a cult following and inspired a sequel series.

Description: Similar to 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988), 'The Witches' is a dark fantasy film that centers on children facing supernatural evil. Both films feature witches as the primary antagonists and use practical effects to create their creepy creatures. The tone balances horror with moments of whimsy, appealing to both children and adults.

Fact: Based on the book by Roald Dahl. Directed by Nicolas Roeg, known for his visually striking films. The film's witch designs were so terrifying they had to be toned down for the final cut.

Description: This film shares with 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988) a dark and twisted take on a classic fairy tale. Both movies delve into the psychological horror aspects of their stories, featuring menacing antagonists and a focus on the vulnerability of children. The gothic visual style and haunting tone are also similar.

Fact: Stars Sigourney Weaver as the evil stepmother. The film was originally intended to be a more traditional adaptation but evolved into a horror film. It was released under the title 'Snow White: A Tale of Terror' to emphasize its darker tone.

Description: Similar to 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988), 'The Brothers Grimm' is a dark fantasy film that reimagines classic fairy tales with a sinister twist. Both films explore themes of childhood fears, supernatural elements, and the struggle between good and evil. The visual aesthetics of 'The Brothers Grimm' also mirror the gothic and eerie atmosphere found in 'Hansel and Gretel'.

Fact: Directed by Terry Gilliam, known for his visually distinctive and imaginative style. The film stars Matt Damon and Heath Ledger as the titular brothers. It combines several fairy tales into one cohesive narrative.

Description: Both 'Pan's Labyrinth' and 'Hansel and Gretel' (1988) blend fantasy and horror, focusing on a child's perspective in a terrifying world. The films share a dark, fairy-tale aesthetic and explore themes of innocence, cruelty, and escape. The labyrinthine settings and monstrous creatures in both films create a sense of dread and wonder.

Fact: Directed by Guillermo del Toro, known for his unique blend of fantasy and horror. The film won three Academy Awards. It is set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War.