10 Movies and Shows Similar to Jumanji (1995)

Description: The NeverEnding Story and Jumanji both involve a young protagonist who is drawn into a magical world through an object (a book in The NeverEnding Story, a board game in Jumanji). Both films emphasize the power of imagination and the blurring line between fantasy and reality, with high stakes and emotional depth.

Fact: The NeverEnding Story is based on a German novel by Michael Ende. The film's iconic theme song, performed by Limahl, became a hit worldwide. The practical effects, including the giant turtle and the luckdragon Falkor, were groundbreaking for the time.

Description: The Goonies shares with Jumanji a sense of adventure and the theme of a group of kids embarking on a perilous journey filled with puzzles, traps, and fantastical elements. Both films capture the spirit of childhood imagination and the thrill of discovery, with a mix of humor and suspense that appeals to family audiences.

Fact: The Goonies was produced by Steven Spielberg and directed by Richard Donner. The film's iconic pirate ship, the Inferno, was a fully functional set built inside a soundstage. The Goonies has inspired numerous real-life treasure hunts, with fans searching for the film's fictional 'One-Eyed Willy's' treasure.

Description: Labyrinth, like Jumanji, features a young protagonist navigating a fantastical and dangerous world filled with puzzles and creatures. Both films blend elements of fantasy and adventure, with a strong emphasis on personal growth and overcoming fears. The visual aesthetics of Labyrinth, with its elaborate puppetry and sets, echo the imaginative world-building of Jumanji.

Fact: Labyrinth was directed by Jim Henson and starred David Bowie as the Goblin King. The film initially underperformed at the box office but has since become a cult classic. The intricate puppetry and animatronics were created by Henson's Creature Shop, showcasing their innovative techniques.

Description: Hook, like Jumanji, explores themes of childhood wonder and the transition into adulthood. Both films feature protagonists who must reconnect with their inner child to overcome challenges. The fantastical settings and the blend of reality with imagination are central to both stories, creating a sense of escapism and adventure.

Fact: Hook is a retelling of the Peter Pan story, with Robin Williams playing an adult Peter who has forgotten his past. The film was directed by Steven Spielberg and features an all-star cast, including Dustin Hoffman as Captain Hook and Julia Roberts as Tinker Bell. The elaborate sets of Neverland were some of the most expensive ever built at the time.

Description: The Mummy shares with Jumanji a sense of adventure and danger, with protagonists uncovering ancient secrets that bring chaos and supernatural threats. Both films blend action, humor, and fantasy, with a strong emphasis on teamwork and survival. The exotic locales and high-stakes scenarios create a similar tone of thrilling escapades.

Fact: The Mummy is a loose remake of the 1932 film of the same name. Brendan Fraser's performance as Rick O'Connell helped revive the adventure genre in the late 1990s. The film's success spawned two sequels and a spin-off series, The Scorpion King.

Description: Pirates of the Caribbean and Jumanji both feature swashbuckling adventures with a mix of humor, danger, and supernatural elements. The charismatic lead characters (Jack Sparrow in Pirates, Alan Parrish in Jumanji) and the blend of action and fantasy create a similar appeal. Both films also involve cursed artifacts that drive the plot forward.

Fact: Pirates of the Caribbean was inspired by the Disney theme park ride of the same name. Johnny Depp's portrayal of Jack Sparrow earned him an Academy Award nomination. The film's success led to a multi-billion-dollar franchise, with multiple sequels and spin-offs.

Description: The Chronicles of Narnia and Jumanji both involve children entering a magical world through a portal (a wardrobe in Narnia, a board game in Jumanji). Both films explore themes of bravery, teamwork, and the battle between good and evil, with lush, imaginative settings that captivate audiences.

Fact: The Chronicles of Narnia is based on the beloved book series by C.S. Lewis. The film was shot in New Zealand, utilizing many of the same locations as The Lord of the Rings. The character of Aslan was brought to life through a combination of CGI and the voice of Liam Neeson.

Description: Like Jumanji, Zathura: A Space Adventure is based on a book by Chris Van Allsburg and follows a similar premise where a board game comes to life, thrusting the players into a dangerous and fantastical adventure. Both films blend family dynamics with high-stakes action and feature a mix of practical and CGI effects to bring their fantastical elements to life.

Fact: Zathura is often considered a spiritual successor to Jumanji, sharing the same author and a similar concept. The film was directed by Jon Favreau, who later went on to direct Iron Man, kickstarting the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Despite its similarities to Jumanji, Zathura did not perform as well at the box office, though it has since gained a cult following.

Description: The Spiderwick Chronicles shares with Jumanji a focus on a family discovering a magical world hidden within their everyday life. Both films involve a mix of adventure, danger, and fantastical creatures, with the protagonists learning to work together to overcome challenges. The themes of curiosity and the consequences of meddling with the unknown are central to both stories.

Fact: The Spiderwick Chronicles is based on a series of books by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi. The film combines live-action with CGI to bring the fantastical creatures to life. The story was originally conceived as a single book but expanded into a series due to its popularity.

Description: Night at the Museum, like Jumanji, features a protagonist who is thrust into a world where inanimate objects come to life, leading to chaotic and adventurous scenarios. Both films blend comedy with action and fantasy, appealing to a wide audience. The theme of history and mythology coming alive parallels Jumanji's jungle adventure.

Fact: Night at the Museum was inspired by a children's book by Milan Trenc. The film stars Ben Stiller and features cameos by historical figures like Teddy Roosevelt and Attila the Hun. The movie's success led to two sequels and a spin-off animated series.