The Best Fantasy Movie Posters

Randolph Strauss
Updated May 8, 2024 32 items
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1.7K votes
180 voters

Just as the best fantasy movies transport us into far away lands like the Emerald City in The Wizard of Oz and down the rabbit hole in Alice in Wonderland, the best fantasy movie posters remind us of the fantasy lands that await our imaginations. Tell us which fantasy movie poster is your favorite by voting for your choices below!

As some of the highest-grossing movies of all time, fantasy movies allow us to escape reality for a few hours and enter lands where superpowers are common and what seems normal no longer is. The trailers for these movies get fans in the seats, but the movie posters allow them to remember the fantasy lands long after the credits roll.

  • The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
    1
    In The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, a young hobbit, Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood), is entrusted with an ancient ring. This ring, darkly powerful and coveted by the malevolent Dark Lord Sauron, must be destroyed to save Middle-earth. Guided by the wise wizard Gandalf (Ian McKellen) and joined by a diverse group of companions, Frodo embarks on a perilous journey towards Mount Doom, the only place where the ring can be unmade. This epic fantasy film won four Academy Awards and launched one of cinema's most celebrated trilogies.
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  • The Dark Knight
    2
    In The Dark Knight, Gotham City's vigilante, Batman (Christian Bale), faces his greatest adversary yet - the Joker (Heath Ledger), a criminal mastermind with a twisted sense of humor. Under the guidance of mentor Lucius Fox (Morgan Freeman) and ally Commissioner Gordon (Gary Oldman), Batman navigates a web of chaos spun by the Joker. The Christopher Nolan directed crime drama won two Academy Awards, including one for Ledger's posthumous performance. Brimming with high-stakes action scenes and moral dilemmas, this second installment in Nolan's Batman trilogy is a captivating exploration of heroism in times of anarchy.
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  • Inception
    3

    Inception

    60 votes
    Inception is a mind-bending, science-fiction thriller directed by Christopher Nolan. The plot pivots around Dom Cobb (Leonardo DiCaprio), an adept 'extractor' who invades people's dreams to steal secrets. However, his latest task is not stealing an idea but planting one - inception. In this high-stakes job, he's aided by Arthur (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), Ariadne (Elliot Page), and Eames (Tom Hardy). Tackling complex themes of reality and subconsciousness, Inception won four Academy Awards. This cinematic labyrinth, riddled with plot twists, leaves viewers questioning the very nature of reality.
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  • Pan's Labyrinth
    4
    In 1944 Spain young Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) and her ailing mother (Ariadna Gil) arrive at the post of her mother's new husband (Sergi López), a sadistic army officer who is trying to quell a guerrilla uprising. While exploring an ancient maze, Ofelia encounters the faun Pan, who tells her that she is a legendary lost princess and must complete three dangerous tasks in order to claim immortality.
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  • Beetlejuice
    5

    Beetlejuice

    47 votes
    In Tim Burton's quirky comedy-horror, Beetlejuice, a recently deceased couple Adam and Barbara Maitland (Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis) find their idyllic afterlife disrupted when an obnoxious new family moves into their former home. Desperate to reclaim their peaceful existence, they enlist the help of a raucous spirit named Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton). However, they soon realize that this mischievous ghost may be more trouble than he's worth. The film, known for its unique blend of humor and horror, won the Academy Award for Best Makeup.
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  • Labyrinth
    6

    Labyrinth

    39 votes
    In Labyrinth, a teenage girl named Sarah (Jennifer Connelly) is thrust into a maze-like dimension after wishing her baby brother away to the Goblin King, Jareth (David Bowie). The film combines elements of fantasy and adventure as Sarah embarks on a quest to rescue her brother from the whimsically treacherous world. Navigating through an intricate labyrinth filled with peculiar creatures and unpredictable challenges, she must rely on her wits to solve riddles and puzzles. This 1986 cult classic, directed by Jim Henson and produced by George Lucas, is noted for its imaginative storyline, distinctive puppetry, and memorable musical score. Despite not winning any major awards, Labyrinth has remained a fan favorite and continues to captivate audiences with its blend of fairy tale magic and coming-of-age drama.
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  • Avatar
    7

    Avatar

    36 votes
    In Avatar, paraplegic ex-Marine Jake Sully (Sam Worthington) finds a new lease on life on the alien world of Pandora. Aided by Dr. Grace Augustine (Sigourney Weaver), he embarks on a mission involving avatars, bodies that resemble the planet's native Na'vi inhabitants. As Jake explores Pandora's lush biosphere, he grows close to Neytiri (Zoe Saldana), a fierce Na'vi warrior. Their bond deepens as they face corporate forces driven by Colonel Miles Quaritch (Stephen Lang) that threaten Pandora's existence. This epic science fiction film directed by James Cameron snagged three Academy Awards for its groundbreaking visual effects and art direction.
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  • Alice in Wonderland (2010)
    8
    In the whimsical adventure film Alice in Wonderland, Alice (Mia Wasikowska) finds herself tumbling down a rabbit hole into an enchantingly peculiar world. Teeming with colorful, eccentric characters like the Mad Hatter (Johnny Depp), the Red Queen (Helena Bonham Carter), and the elusive Cheshire Cat (Stephen Fry). Guided by destiny and spurred on by courage, Alice embarks on a quest to end the Red Queen's reign of terror and restore peace. This fantastical journey is filled with riddles, danger, and extraordinary encounters, offering viewers a captivating dive into Lewis Carroll's iconic universe. The film bagged two Academy Awards for its exceptional art direction and costume design.
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  • The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
    9
    Venturing deeper into the world of Middle-earth, the second installment of the award-winning epic fantasy series delves into the escalating battle between good and evil. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers presents viewers with an enthralling narrative, as it follows the journey of separated fellowship members, each facing their own challenges. Aragorn (Viggo Mortensen), Legolas (Orlando Bloom), and Gimli (John Rhys-Davies) forge alliances to defend the besieged Rohan, while Frodo (Elijah Wood) and Sam (Sean Astin) encounter the treacherous Gollum (Andy Serkis) in their quest to destroy the One Ring. With unforgettable performances and breathtaking visuals, this cinematic masterpiece continues to enchant audiences worldwide.
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  • How to Train Your Dragon
    10
    In the animated fantasy film How to Train Your Dragon, Hiccup (Jay Baruchel) is a young Viking who, unlike his tribe, isn't keen on killing dragons. Stoick (Gerard Butler), Hiccup's father and village chieftain, struggles to understand his son's pacifist tendencies. During one of the dragon raids, Hiccup injures a Night Fury dragon named Toothless. Instead of finishing him off, he befriends him. This unlikely friendship challenges the village's draconian norms and leads to a shift in their way of life. The movie, directed by Dean DeBlois and Chris Sanders, won the Annie Award for Best Animated Feature.
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  • Edward Scissorhands
    11
    In the peculiar and captivating film Edward Scissorhands, Edward (Johnny Depp), a gentle creation with scissors for hands, navigates life in suburbia after being taken in by Peg (Dianne Wiest). His unusual appearance and talent for topiary artistry stir both fascination and fear among the townsfolk. The eccentric inventor (Vincent Price) who created him passes away before he could complete Edward's hands, leaving Edward to grapple with his incomplete nature. Directed by Tim Burton, this blend of fantasy and romance won a BAFTA for Best Production Design.
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  • The Wizard of Oz
    12
    The Wizard of Oz is a classic fantasy film, an enduring testament to Hollywood's Golden Age. Young Dorothy (Judy Garland) finds herself whisked away from her Kansas home by a tornado, landing in the vibrant and fantastical Land of Oz. Joined by a trio of unforgettable characters - the Scarecrow (Ray Bolger) longing for brains, the Tin Man (Jack Haley) yearning for a heart, and the Cowardly Lion (Bert Lahr) seeking courage - they traverse the yellow brick road. Their destination: the enigmatic Wizard of Oz, who can potentially grant their wishes and return Dorothy home. Winner of two Academy Awards, this movie is noted for its innovative use of Technicolor and iconic musical numbers.
  • Big Fish
    13

    Big Fish

    27 votes
    In the whimsical fantasy drama Big Fish, Edward Bloom (Ewan McGregor) weaves tall tales of his extraordinary adventures, peppered with a touch of magic and heaps of charm. As an old man (Albert Finney), Bloom's grown son Will (Billy Crudup) is grappling to unravel truth from fiction in his father's stories - a journey that takes him through a tapestry of imaginative narratives. Directed by Tim Burton, this movie sways between reality and surrealism, enveloping viewers in a world where giants roam and fish talk. A heartwarming exploration of life, love, and the power of storytelling, Big Fish was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Score.
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  • Hook
    14

    Hook

    32 votes
    In the fantastical adventure film Hook, Peter Banning (Robin Williams), a high-powered corporate lawyer, grapples with a world beyond his comprehension. Unbeknownst to him, he is actually the grown-up Peter Pan, a fact revealed by the eccentric Tinkerbell (Julia Roberts). When his children are kidnapped by the nefarious Captain Hook (Dustin Hoffman), Banning must rediscover his playful and courageous past life in Neverland to save them. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this whimsical twist on J.M. Barrie's classic tale won an Oscar for Best Visual Effects, showcasing magical landscapes and swashbuckling pirate battles.
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  • Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
    15
    As Death Eaters wreak havoc in both Muggle and Wizard worlds, Hogwarts is no longer a safe haven for students. Though Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) suspects there are new dangers lurking within the castle walls, Dumbledore is more intent than ever on preparing the young wizard for the final battle with Voldemort. Meanwhile, teenage hormones run rampant through Hogwarts, presenting a different sort of danger. Love may be in the air, but tragedy looms, and Hogwarts may never be the same again.
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  • Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
    16
    In Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, Percy Jackson (Logan Lerman) finds his world turned upside down when he discovers he's no ordinary teenager, but a demigod. Son of Poseidon (Kevin McKidd), Percy embarks on a fantastical journey across modern-day America to prevent a war among the gods. With his friends Annabeth Chase (Alexandra Daddario) and Grover Underwood (Brandon T. Jackson), they must retrieve Zeus's stolen lightning bolt and clear Percy's name. This action-packed adventure film, directed by Chris Columbus, weaves Greek mythology into contemporary times, offering a fresh take on classic tales.
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  • Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
    17
    In Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets, Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) embarks on his second year at Hogwarts School, accompanied by friends Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint). The school year is marred by a series of mysterious events, as students are found petrified and ominous messages appear on walls. As the trio investigates, they uncover a dark secret about the school's past. Directed by Chris Columbus, this fantasy film intertwines elements of mystery and adventure. The movie brings J.K. Rowling's second book to life with exceptional performances and stunning visual effects.
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  • Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas
    18
    In Dr. Seuss' How the Grinch Stole Christmas, the Grinch (Jim Carrey) is a recluse living on Mount Crumpit, shunning the festive cheer of Whoville below. In this fantastical family comedy, directed by Ron Howard, the green-furred Grinch decides to sabotage Christmas for the town's jubilant citizens. Cindy Lou Who (Taylor Momsen), a sweet-hearted child, attempts to reform him with the power of love and holiday spirit. This film, based on Dr. Seuss's classic children's book, won an Academy Award for Best Makeup in 2001.
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  • Clash of the Titans (2010)
    19
    Clash of the Titans plunges viewers into a mythological world, where Perseus (Sam Worthington), a demigod, embarks on a perilous quest. Born as Zeus's (Liam Neeson) son and raised as a human, he faces a deadly challenge: to defeat Hades (Ralph Fiennes), the vengeful god of the underworld. Aided by Io (Gemma Arterton), Perseus braves monstrous creatures and treacherous landscapes. This fantasy-adventure film, directed by Louis Leterrier, unfolds with high-stakes battles and divine interventions, while exploring themes of destiny and free will.
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  • Sucker Punch
    20

    Sucker Punch

    27 votes
    In the movie Sucker Punch, Babydoll (Emily Browning), a young woman, is committed to an asylum by her cruel stepfather. Inside this grim institution, she retreats into a fantastical world of her own creation, where she and four other inmates - Sweet Pea (Abbie Cornish), Rocket (Jena Malone), Blondie (Vanessa Hudgens), and Amber (Jamie Chung) - become determined to escape their captors. The film blends elements of action, fantasy, and drama genres in a visually striking narrative. Director Zack Snyder's signature style of storytelling is evident throughout the movie as it oscillates between reality and imagination, never revealing too much but always keeping the audience intrigued.
  • Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
    21
    In the action-adventure film Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time, Dastan (Jake Gyllenhaal) is an agile, street-smart urchin adopted by Persia's king. Tamina (Gemma Arterton), a defiant princess, becomes his reluctant ally. When the mystical Dagger of Time bestows upon Dastan time-altering abilities, he finds himself caught in a web of royal betrayal and dark sorcery. As they journey through ancient lands, Dastan and Tamina must safeguard the dagger from falling into wrong hands, lest they unleash cataclysmic events. A tale woven with intrigue, this film reveals a world where destiny is carved by courage and love.
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  • Excalibur
    22

    Excalibur

    21 votes
    A tale steeped in Arthurian legend, Excalibur is a captivating film that takes you back to the medieval era. The movie explores the life of King Arthur (Nigel Terry), his rise to power, and his possession of the mystical sword, Excalibur. Notable characters include Merlin (Nicol Williamson), the enigmatic sorcerer guiding Arthur's steps, and Guinevere (Cherie Lunghi), Arthur's queen. Directed by John Boorman, this 1981 epic fantasy drama won a Saturn Award for Best Fantasy Film. With its stunning visuals and strong narrative, Excalibur offers an immersive journey into an iconic legend.
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  • Toy Story 3
    23

    Toy Story 3

    22 votes
    In Toy Story 3, Woody (Tom Hanks), Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) and the rest of their toy companions face an uncertain future as their owner, Andy, prepares to leave for college. Unintentionally donated to a chaotic daycare center, they find themselves in a thrilling escapade to return home. Amidst the adventure, they encounter deceptively cuddly bear Lotso (Ned Beatty), who rules the daycare with an iron fist. The film, a delightful blend of comedy and drama, won two Academy Awards - Best Animated Feature and Best Original Song.
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  • The Tale of Despereaux
    24
    Once a thriving place of sunshine and delicious soup, the faraway kingdom of Dor has fallen into sadness. An accident leaves the king brokenhearted; the sunshine fades, and the soup disappears Into this world is born Despereaux (Matthew Broderick), a book-loving mouse and friend to Princess Pea (Emma Watson). When Pea is kidnapped, Despereaux must find a knight's brave heart within his tiny body and rescue his friend.
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  • Elf
    25

    Elf

    21 votes
    A charming blend of whimsy and comedy, Elf is a festive delight. The film chronicles the journey of Buddy (Will Ferrell), an oversized elf who hails from Santa's workshop in the North Pole. Raised among elves, Buddy discovers he's actually human and embarks on a quest to New York City to find his biological father, Walter Hobbs (James Caan). Encountering a world that lacks Christmas spirit, Buddy is determined to win over his cynical dad while spreading holiday cheer. Directed by Jon Favreau, Elf spins a heartwarming yarn about identity, family, and the magic of Christmas without revealing too much or transforming into a saccharine overdose. This is a movie that has won hearts without claiming any major awards.
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  • The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus
    26
    Dr. Parnassus (Christopher Plummer), the leader of a traveling show, has a dark secret. Thousands of years ago he traded the soul of his daughter, Valentina, to the devil. Now the devil has come to collect his prize. To save her, Parnassus must make a final wager: Whoever collects five souls first will win Valentina. Tony (Heath Ledger), a man saved from hanging by Parnassus' troupe, agrees to help collect them, with his eye on marrying Valentina.
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  • 2012
    27

    2012

    28 votes
    In the disaster movie 2012, the world faces an apocalyptic cataclysm of biblical proportions. Jackson Curtis (John Cusack), a science fiction writer, stumbles upon these unsettling predictions and embarks on a race against time to save his family. Alongside him is Adrian Helmsley (Chiwetel Ejiofor), a government scientist who also discovers the impending doom. Directed by Roland Emmerich, this film combines elements of action and science fiction genres, bringing together a star-studded cast in a thrilling narrative about survival and resilience amidst global catastrophe.
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  • Immortals
    28

    Immortals

    21 votes
    Power-hungry King Hyperion (Mickey Rourke) and his ruthless army march across Greece, leaving burned-out villages and the corpses of the innocent in their wake. Hyperion's goal is to find the long-lost Bow of Epirus; with this invincible weapon, he can cast the gods out of Mount Olympus and become master of the world. A stonemason named Theseus (Henry Cavill) heeds the words of the sibylline oracle (Freida Pinto), who convinces him that he is the key to stopping the bloodthirsty king.
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  • Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
    29
    In Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, young Charlie Bucket (Freddie Highmore) lives in poverty but dreams big. A golden ticket lottery, hosted by the eccentric Willy Wonka (Johnny Depp), owner of the world's most magical chocolate factory, changes his life. Five tickets hidden inside chocolate bars promise a tour of the mysterious factory. After Charlie finds one, he embarks on this adventure with his Grandpa Joe (David Kelly). The journey unfolds a kaleidoscope of enchanting sights, peculiar fellow winners, and Wonka's strange secrets. The film is a fantastical blend of comedy and adventure, directed by Tim Burton, that brings Roald Dahl's beloved book to life.
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  • Conan the Barbarian (2011)
    30

    Conan the Barbarian (2011)

    15 votes