10 Movies & Shows Like ‘Return to Oz’ (1985)

Description: Similar to 'Return to Oz' in its dark fantasy elements and intricate puppet-based visual aesthetics. Both films explore themes of good versus evil in surreal, otherworldly settings, appealing to both children and adults with their depth and creativity.

Fact: Directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, combining their expertise in puppetry and fantasy storytelling. Entirely performed by puppets, with no human actors. The film initially underperformed but has since gained a cult following.

Description: Shares 'Return to Oz's' darker tone and complex storytelling within a family-friendly fantasy. Both films feature courageous protagonists facing overwhelming odds in mystical settings.

Fact: Don Bluth's first directorial feature after leaving Disney. Based on the novel 'Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH.' Uses a distinctive, detailed animation style.

Description: Like 'Return to Oz,' it follows a child entering a magical world facing destruction, blending adventure with deep emotional undertones. Both films feature striking visual designs and a mix of wonder and melancholy.

Fact: Based on the German novel by Michael Ende. Features the iconic luckdragon Falkor. The first English-language film produced by a German studio.

Description: Similar to 'Return to Oz' in its darker fantasy elements and adventurous storyline. Both films were groundbreaking for their time in pushing the boundaries of family-friendly animation.

Fact: Disney's first animated film to receive a PG rating. Based on Lloyd Alexander's 'The Chronicles of Prydain.' Initially a box office failure but later gained a cult following.

Description: Shares 'Return to Oz's' blend of whimsy and darkness, featuring a young protagonist navigating a fantastical, perilous world. Both films use practical effects and elaborate sets to create immersive fantasy environments.

Fact: Stars David Bowie as the Goblin King, Jareth. Directed by Jim Henson, with creature designs by Brian Froud. Initially a box office disappointment but became a beloved classic over time.

Description: Shares 'Return to Oz's' darker tone within a children's fantasy framework, featuring a young protagonist confronting sinister forces. Both films balance scares with moments of wonder.

Fact: Based on Roald Dahl's novel. Features groundbreaking makeup effects by Jim Henson's Creature Shop. Anjelica Huston's performance as the Grand High Witch is iconic.

Description: Like 'Return to Oz,' it follows a brave young girl discovering a fantastical yet dangerous alternate world. Both films use striking visuals to explore themes of bravery and identity.

Fact: Directed by Henry Selick, based on Neil Gaiman's novella. Uses stop-motion animation for a unique, tactile aesthetic. The first stop-motion film to be shot in 3D.

Description: Mirrors 'Return to Oz's' surreal, dreamlike quality and its exploration of a young girl's journey through a bizarre, visually rich alternate reality. Both films blend fantasy with psychological depth.

Fact: Written by Neil Gaiman and directed by Dave McKean. Uses a unique blend of live-action and digital animation. Produced by the Jim Henson Company.

Description: Like 'Return to Oz,' it involves children discovering a hidden magical world filled with wonder and danger. Both films blend fantasy adventure with a sense of mystery and discovery.

Fact: Based on the book series by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black. Features a mix of live-action and CGI creatures. Directed by Mark Waters, known for 'Mean Girls.'

Description: Echoes 'Return to Oz's' blend of fantasy and darkness, with a young girl escaping into a mythical world amidst real-world peril. Both films juxtapose childhood innocence with mature, sometimes harrowing themes.

Fact: Directed by Guillermo del Toro. Won three Academy Awards. Combines historical drama with fairy tale elements.