10 Movies & Shows Like Leon’s Fantasy Cut

Description: A groundbreaking dark fantasy that relies entirely on puppetry and practical effects to create its otherworldly setting. The story follows a young hero's journey to restore balance to a fractured world, emphasizing themes of harmony and destiny.

Fact: The film was the first live-action movie to feature no human actors on screen. The intricate puppets took years to design and build, with some requiring multiple puppeteers to operate.

Description: An animated fantasy that explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the supernatural through the eyes of a small but determined hero. The film's dark tone and intricate storytelling set it apart from typical children's animations.

Fact: The film was Don Bluth's first directorial effort after leaving Disney. The story is loosely based on the novel 'Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH,' which was inspired by real-life experiments on lab rats.

Description: A fantasy adventure that blends reality with a richly imagined world, featuring a young protagonist on a quest to save a magical realm from destruction. The film's themes of courage, imagination, and the power of storytelling resonate deeply.

Fact: The film's iconic theme song, 'The NeverEnding Story,' was performed by Limahl, former lead singer of Kajagoogoo. The movie was shot in Germany and features elaborate practical effects and puppetry.

Description: A dark and ambitious animated fantasy that delves into themes of destiny, evil, and heroism. The film's atmospheric visuals and mature storytelling make it a standout in the fantasy genre.

Fact: The film was the first Disney animated feature to receive a PG rating. It was also one of the most expensive animated films ever made at the time, due to its elaborate production and use of early computer animation techniques.

Description: A visually opulent fairy tale that contrasts light and darkness, with a young hero facing off against a demonic villain to save his love and the world. The film's dreamlike aesthetic and mythological undertones create a mesmerizing experience.

Fact: The film was shot entirely on soundstages to achieve its highly stylized look. Two different scores were composed for the film—one by Tangerine Dream for the U.S. release and another by Jerry Goldsmith for the international version.

Description: A visually stunning fantasy that combines dark whimsy with a coming-of-age narrative. The protagonist navigates a maze filled with bizarre creatures and challenges, exploring themes of responsibility and self-discovery.

Fact: Jim Henson's Creature Shop created over 100 puppets for the film, including the iconic goblins. David Bowie's musical contributions were integral to the film's unique atmosphere.

Description: A beloved fairy tale that balances romance, adventure, and comedy with a self-aware narrative style. The film's timeless appeal comes from its witty dialogue, memorable characters, and a story that celebrates true love and heroism.

Fact: The film was initially a modest box-office success but gained a massive following through home video. Mandy Patinkin, who played Inigo Montoya, based his performance on his father's death from cancer, channeling his grief into the character's quest for vengeance.

Description: A classic hero's journey set in a high-fantasy world, featuring a reluctant hero, magical elements, and a battle between good and evil. The film's blend of adventure, humor, and heart makes it a timeless tale.

Fact: George Lucas conceived the story as a way to create a fantasy film with a more intimate scale than his 'Star Wars' saga. Warwick Davis, who played the titular character, was only 17 during filming.

Description: A dark fantasy that weaves together the horrors of reality with the escapism of myth. The protagonist's journey through a labyrinthine world mirrors her struggle to cope with the brutality of war, blending fairy-tale elements with stark realism.

Fact: The film's Pale Man creature was inspired by Francisco Goya's painting 'Saturn Devouring His Son.' Guillermo del Toro personally funded the development of the film's elaborate creatures and sets when initial funding fell through.

Description: A whimsical and romantic fantasy adventure that blends humor, magic, and swashbuckling action. The story's charm lies in its mix of fairy-tale tropes and subversive twists, creating a world that feels both familiar and fresh.

Fact: The film is based on a novel by Neil Gaiman, who also wrote the screenplay. The production built a full-scale wall around the fictional village of Wall, which remained standing as a tourist attraction for years after filming.