The Lord of the Rings trilogy, directed by Peter Jackson and based on the beloved novels by J.R.R. Tolkien, is widely regarded as one of the greatest fantasy film series ever made. These epic movies transported us to the magical realm of Middle-earth, filled with hobbits, elves, dwarves, wizards, and a quest to destroy the One Ring and defeat the dark lord Sauron. If you’re a fan of The Lord of the Rings and are craving more epic fantasy adventures, here are 20 movies that capture a similar spirit of magic, heroism, and breathtaking world-building.
1. The Hobbit Trilogy (2012-2014)
The most obvious choice for Lord of the Rings fans is The Hobbit trilogy, also directed by Peter Jackson. Set 60 years before the events of The Lord of the Rings, these films follow the journey of Bilbo Baggins as he joins a company of dwarves on a quest to reclaim their homeland from the dragon Smaug. While not quite reaching the heights of the original trilogy, The Hobbit movies still offer a welcome return to Middle-earth with stunning visuals and memorable characters.
2. Willow (1988)
Produced by George Lucas and directed by Ron Howard, Willow is a classic ’80s fantasy adventure. It follows the story of Willow Ufgood, a dwarf farmer who must protect a special baby from an evil queen. With its mix of magic, humor, and heart, Willow captures a similar sense of wonder and heroism as The Lord of the Rings. A sequel TV series is currently in development for Disney+.
3. The Chronicles of Narnia Series (2005-2010)
Based on the beloved novels by C.S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia films transport viewers to a magical world filled with talking animals, mythical creatures, and the epic battle between good and evil. The first film, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, is a particular standout, beautifully bringing the wintry realm of Narnia to life. Subsequent films Prince Caspian and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader continue the adventures.
4. The Princess Bride (1987)
While more comedic in tone than The Lord of the Rings, The Princess Bride is a delightful fantasy adventure filled with romance, sword fights, giants, revenge, and rodents of unusual size. Endlessly quotable and utterly charming, this classic fairy tale spoof features a wonderful cast including Cary Elwes, Robin Wright, Mandy Patinkin, and Andre the Giant. It may not have orcs or wizards, but it’s a must-watch for any fantasy fan.
5. Dragonheart (1996)
Set in a fantastical version of medieval England, Dragonheart tells the story of Bowen, a knight who forms an unlikely friendship with Draco, the last living dragon. Together they embark on a quest to stop an evil king. While the CGI may be dated by today’s standards, Dragonheart still charms with its mix of action, humor, and Sean Connery’s delightful vocal performance as Draco.
6. Ladyhawke (1985)
Ladyhawke is a unique fantasy romance starring Matthew Broderick, Rutger Hauer, and Michelle Pfeiffer. The story revolves around two lovers cursed by an evil bishop – by day, the woman transforms into a hawk, and by night, the man turns into a wolf. With the help of a young thief, they seek to break the curse. While not a typical swords and sorcery tale, Ladyhawke offers a captivating, more intimate fantasy adventure.
7. Excalibur (1981)
For fans of Arthurian legend, Excalibur is a lush, stylized retelling of the classic tales of King Arthur, the Knights of the Round Table, Merlin, and the sword Excalibur. Directed by John Boorman, this epic fantasy is filled with magic, passion, betrayal, and grandiose visuals. Fun fact: Boorman originally wanted to adapt The Lord of the Rings but couldn’t secure the rights, so he made Excalibur instead.
8. Krull (1983)
Krull is a sci-fi fantasy adventure that blends elements of sword and sorcery with space opera. Set on the planet Krull, the story follows Prince Colwyn and a group of outlaws on a quest to save his bride from the clutches of an alien entity called the Beast and his army of Slayers. It’s a weird, wonderful ’80s gem with imaginative creatures, a memorable score, and a very cool weapon called the Glaive.
9. Stardust (2007)
Based on the novel by Neil Gaiman, Stardust is an enchanting fantasy romance about a young man named Tristan who ventures into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved. The star turns out to be a woman named Yvaine, and together they go on a journey filled with witches, pirates, and princes. With its storybook charm, humor, and stellar cast, Stardust is a delightful fairy tale adventure.
10. The Dark Crystal (1982)
From the visionary minds of Jim Henson and Frank Oz, The Dark Crystal is a groundbreaking fantasy film using only puppets and practical effects. Set on the alien world of Thra, the story follows Jen, a young Gelfling, on a quest to restore balance to the universe by repairing the shattered Dark Crystal. The film’s stunning artistry, memorable characters, and mythic storytelling make it a one-of-a-kind fantasy experience. A prequel series, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance, is also available on Netflix.
11. Conan the Barbarian (1982)
Based on the stories by Robert E. Howard, Conan the Barbarian stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as the titular warrior on a quest for vengeance against the evil sorcerer Thulsa Doom. Directed by John Milius, this bloody, brawny sword and sorcery epic features thrilling battles, memorable lines, and a rousing score. Its influence can be seen in many subsequent fantasy films.
12. The NeverEnding Story (1984)
The NeverEnding Story is a beloved children’s fantasy film about a boy named Bastian who reads a magical book and is transported to the world of Fantasia, where he must save the realm from a dark force called the Nothing. With its imaginative creatures, memorable theme song, and themes of the power of storytelling, The NeverEnding Story is a nostalgic favorite for many ’80s kids.
13. Clash of the Titans (1981)
Loosely based on Greek mythology, Clash of the Titans follows the hero Perseus on a quest to save Princess Andromeda from the monstrous Kraken. The film features the legendary stop-motion animation of Ray Harryhausen, bringing to life creatures like Medusa, the winged horse Pegasus, and the giant scorpions. While the 2010 remake upped the CGI spectacle, the original has a classic charm all its own.
14. The Beastmaster (1982)
The Beastmaster is a cult classic sword and sorcery film starring Marc Singer as Dar, a warrior with the ability to communicate with animals. Seeking revenge against the evil priest Maax, Dar embarks on a journey filled with memorable sidekicks (including Rip Torn and Tanya Roberts), impressive creatures, and plenty of old-school action. It spawned several sequels and a TV series.
15. Highlander (1986)
While not a traditional fantasy, Highlander blends elements of sword and sorcery with contemporary action. The story revolves around Connor MacLeod, an immortal Scottish warrior who must battle other immortals across time in a quest for “the Prize.” With its iconic soundtrack by Queen, stylish action scenes, and the unforgettable performances of Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery, Highlander is a unique and enduring genre mashup.
16. Labyrinth (1986)
Another Jim Henson classic, Labyrinth stars Jennifer Connelly as Sarah, a teenage girl who must navigate a magical maze to rescue her baby brother from the clutches of the Goblin King, memorably played by David Bowie. With its mix of puppets, practical effects, catchy songs, and a touch of coming-of-age drama, Labyrinth is a quirky, endearing fantasy adventure.
17. Legend (1985)
Directed by Ridley Scott, Legend is a lush, dark fairy tale starring Tom Cruise as Jack, a forest dweller who must save a princess and the world from the Lord of Darkness. While the film’s plot may be simple, its stunning visuals, impressive makeup effects (especially on Tim Curry’s devilish villain), and ethereal score make it a feast for the senses. The Director’s Cut is particularly worth seeking out.
18. The Sword and the Sorcerer (1982)
The Sword and the Sorcerer is a low-budget sword and sorcery film that nonetheless charms with its earnest performances, practical effects, and plenty of cheesy ’80s fun. The story follows a mercenary named Talon who wields a triple-bladed sword on a quest to avenge his family and save a kingdom. It may not be high art, but it’s an entertaining slice of fantasy nostalgia.
19. Fire and Ice (1983)
Fire and Ice is an animated fantasy film collaboration between Ralph Bakshi and Frank Frazetta. Inspired by Frazetta’s iconic fantasy art, the film tells the story of a warrior named Larn who must save a princess from the evil queen Juliana and her son Nekron, who plans to conquer the world with his glacial powers. With its striking rotoscoped animation and action-packed storyline, Fire and Ice is a unique entry in the fantasy genre.
20. Kull the Conqueror (1997)
Starring Kevin Sorbo of Hercules: The Legendary Journeys fame, Kull the Conqueror is a sword and sorcery film based on the stories by Robert E. Howard. Kull, a barbarian warrior, becomes the king of Valusia and must defend his throne from an evil sorceress. While not as well-known as Conan, Kull still delivers plenty of action, magic, and Sorbo’s charismatic presence.
These 20 movies offer a wide range of fantasy adventures that should appeal to fans of The Lord of the Rings. From classic sword and sorcery tales to more modern takes on the genre, each film transports viewers to imaginative worlds filled with magic, heroism, and the eternal struggle between good and evil. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and let these movies take you on an epic journey. And if you’re still craving more fantasy after all that, there’s always time for another Lord of the Rings marathon!
