10 Movies & Shows Like *The Princess Bride* (1987)

Description: The Sword in the Stone shares The Princess Bride's medieval setting and lighthearted take on Arthurian legend. Both films mix adventure with comedy and feature a young protagonist learning important life lessons. The Princess Bride's playful anachronisms and humor are echoed in Disney's whimsical interpretation of the King Arthur story.

Fact: This was the last Disney animated film released before Walt Disney's death. The film's wizard duel scene was inspired by a similar sequence in the 1940 film Fantasia. The movie was based on T.H. White's novel of the same name.

Description: The Dark Crystal shares The Princess Bride's fantasy elements and imaginative world-building. Both films feature a quest narrative and a mix of light and dark tones. While The Dark Crystal is more serious overall, it shares The Princess Bride's sense of wonder and creativity in its creature designs and settings.

Fact: The Dark Crystal was the first live-action film to feature no human actors. All characters are puppets created by Jim Henson's team. The film's unique language was created by linguist Alan Garner.

Description: The NeverEnding Story, like The Princess Bride, is a beloved fantasy film that combines adventure, whimsy, and deeper themes. Both movies feature a young protagonist embarking on an epic journey, encountering strange creatures and overcoming obstacles. The Princess Bride's meta-narrative (a story within a story) is echoed in The NeverEnding Story's framing device of a boy reading a magical book.

Fact: The film's theme song, performed by Limahl, became a hit in several countries. The iconic flying dog, Falkor, was operated by a team of puppeteers. The movie only covers the first half of the original novel by Michael Ende.

Description: Labyrinth, like The Princess Bride, is a fantasy film that blends adventure, humor, and a touch of romance. Both movies feature a protagonist navigating a strange, magical world filled with quirky characters. The Princess Bride's playful tone and memorable dialogue are echoed in Labyrinth's whimsical and sometimes surreal atmosphere.

Fact: David Bowie composed and performed all the songs in the film. The film was directed by Jim Henson, creator of The Muppets. Jennifer Connelly, who plays Sarah, was only 14 during filming.

Description: Willow shares The Princess Bride's mix of fantasy, adventure, and humor. Both films feature unlikely heroes, magical elements, and a quest to protect someone special. The Princess Bride's lighthearted yet exciting tone is present in Willow, which also balances action with comedic moments and heartfelt relationships.

Fact: Willow was directed by Ron Howard and produced by George Lucas. Warwick Davis, who plays Willow, was only 17 during filming. The film introduced the now-famous 'brownie' creatures, which later inspired similar characters in other fantasy works.

Description: While not a fantasy film, The Princess Diaries shares The Princess Bride's themes of royalty, self-discovery, and romance. Both films feature strong female leads navigating new roles in life with humor and heart. The Princess Bride's charm and feel-good quality are present in this modern fairy tale about an ordinary girl discovering she's a princess.

Fact: This was Anne Hathaway's breakout film role. Julie Andrews returned to the screen after a seven-year hiatus for this film. The movie is based on Meg Cabot's young adult novel series.

Description: Ella Enchanted, like The Princess Bride, is a fairy tale with humor, romance, and adventure. Both films subvert traditional fairy tale tropes while maintaining a charming, whimsical tone. The Princess Bride's witty dialogue and strong female protagonist are mirrored in Ella Enchanted's clever script and independent heroine.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the novel by Gail Carson Levine. Anne Hathaway performed all her own singing in the musical numbers. The movie features a cameo by Minnie Driver as a fairy godmother.

Description: This film shares The Princess Bride's sense of adventure and fantasy, with children entering a magical world. Both stories involve quests, battles between good and evil, and themes of courage and loyalty. While Narnia is more epic in scale, it shares The Princess Bride's ability to appeal to both children and adults with its rich storytelling.

Fact: The film was shot primarily in New Zealand, like The Lord of the Rings. Tilda Swinton's White Witch costume took over 90 minutes to put on each day. The movie won the Academy Award for Best Makeup.

Description: Enchanted, like The Princess Bride, is a fairy tale that both celebrates and pokes fun at traditional fantasy tropes. Both films blend romance, humor, and adventure while playing with the conventions of their genre. The Princess Bride's meta-commentary on storytelling is echoed in Enchanted's fish-out-of-water narrative about an animated princess in the real world.

Fact: Amy Adams was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance. The film includes numerous references to classic Disney animated films. The musical number 'That's How You Know' features over 300 extras in Central Park.

Description: Stardust shares similarities with The Princess Bride in its blend of fantasy, adventure, and romance. Both films feature a quest-driven narrative, witty dialogue, and a mix of humor and heart. The Princess Bride's playful tone and swashbuckling elements are mirrored in Stardust, which also includes a charming love story and fantastical creatures.

Fact: Stardust is based on a novel by Neil Gaiman, who also co-wrote the screenplay. The film features a cameo by Ricky Gervais as a shady merchant. Claire Danes, who plays the lead role of Yvaine, had to learn a British accent for the film.