Dragons are a universal symbol in mythology and fantasy across many cultures. Each culture has its unique interpretation of a dragon, yet there's a common understanding that dragons are large, serpent-like creatures known for their power, often associated with destruction, and sometimes revered for their wisdom. These mythical beings have been adapted into various forms of media, including games, shows, plays, and movies.

When you think of a "Dragon Movie," you likely expect a film that revolves around dragons. Despite their popularity in culture, there are fewer dragon-centric movies than one might assume. Therefore, some films on our list feature dragons but may not be exclusively about them.

Let's explore our selection of the top dragon movies of all time.

Top Dragon Movies of All Time

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10. Maleficent (2014)

Director: Robert Stromberg | Writer: Linda Woolverton | Stars: Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Sharlto Copley | Release Date: May 30, 2014 | Review: IGN's Maleficent review | Where to watch: Stream on TBS, TNT, and tru TV, rentable on Amazon and other platforms

Kicking off our list with a film that's less about dragons, Maleficent is Disney's reimagining of the villain from the 1959 classic Sleeping Beauty. In this tale, Maleficent (Angelina Jolie) seeks revenge by putting Princess Aurora (Elle Fanning) to sleep. Unlike the original, Maleficent doesn't transform into a dragon herself; instead, she uses her magic to turn Diaval into various creatures, including a dragon towards the movie's end.

9. Spirited Away (2001)

Director: Hayao Miyazaki | Writer: Hayao Miyazaki | Stars: JP: Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki; Eng: Daveigh Chase, Suzanne Pleshette, Jason Marsden | Release Date: July 20, 2001 | Review: IGN's Spirited Away review | Where to watch: Max, or rentable on other platforms

In Spirited Away, another film where dragons play a secondary role, Hayao Miyazaki weaves a magical tale rooted in Japanese mythology. Chihiro (voiced by Daveigh Chase and Rumi Hiiragi) embarks on a quest to save her parents from being permanently turned into pigs. A white dragon, inspired by Japanese folklore, plays a crucial role in the plot and Chihiro's journey.

For more enchanting films, check out our list of the best Studio Ghibli movies.

8. The NeverEnding Story (1984)

Director: Wolfgang Petersen | Writer: Wolfgang Petersen, Herman Weigel | Stars: Noah Hathaway, Barret Oliver, Tami Stronach | Release Date: April 6, 1984 | Review: IGN's The NeverEnding Story review | Where to watch: Rentable on most platforms

While not the central focus, Falkor the 'Luck Dragon' from The NeverEnding Story is an iconic dragon that deserves mention. Falkor aids Atreyu (Noah Hathaway) in his quest to save Fantasia from The Nothing. Despite limited screen time, Falkor's role is pivotal, and he remains one of the most memorable elements of the film.

7. Pete’s Dragon (2016)

Director: David Lowery | Writer: David Lowery, Toby Halbrooks | Stars: Oakes Fegley, Bryce Dallas Howard, Wes Bentley | Release Date: August 12, 2016 | Review: IGN's Pete's Dragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms

A remake of the 1977 original, Pete's Dragon tells the heartwarming story of a boy named Pete (Oakes Fegley) who, after being orphaned in a forest, befriends a camouflaged dragon named Elliott. The film blends elements of Tarzan and The Iron Giant, creating a touching narrative that resonates well with audiences.

6. Eragon (2006)

Director: Stefan Fangmeier | Writer: Peter Buchman | Stars: Jeremy Irons, Robert Carlyle, Ed Speleers | Release Date: December 15, 2006 | Review: IGN's Eragon review | Where to watch: Disney+, or rentable on other platforms

Based on the popular young adult book series, Eragon is the first film on our list that primarily focuses on dragons. A young farm boy named Eragon (Ed Speleers) discovers a dragon egg, leading him on an epic journey to defend his homeland with his dragon companion, Saphira. While the film offers exciting dragon action, it's recommended to watch it before reading the books.

5. Dragonslayer (1981)

Director: Matthew Robbins | Writer: Hal Barwood, Matthew Robbins | Stars: Peter MacNicol, Caitlin Clarke, Ralph Richardson | Release Date: June 26, 1981 | Where to watch: Kanopy, Hoopla, Paramount+, Apple TV, or rentable on other platforms

Despite its dated effects and average acting, Dragonslayer is a classic fantasy adventure that dragon movie enthusiasts will appreciate. A young wizard's apprentice (Peter MacNicol) must take on his master's quest to free a kingdom from a dragon. As the oldest film on our list, it earns its place with bold and creative storytelling.

4. The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)

Director: Peter Jackson | Writer: Fran Walsh, Philippa Boyens, Peter Jackson, Guillermo del Toro | Stars: Martin Freeman, Ian McKellen, Richard Armitage | Release Date: December 13, 2013 | Review: IGN's The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug review | Where to Watch: Max, or rentable on other platforms

In the second installment of The Hobbit trilogy, Bilbo (Martin Freeman) and his companions continue their quest to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug. This film stands out as the only one on our list with the dragon's name in the title, and Smaug embodies the classic dragon traits of greed, cunning, and territoriality.

For a complete viewing experience, see our guide on watching Lord of the Rings movies in order.

3. Reign of Fire (2002)

Director: Rob Bowman | Writer: Gregg Chabot, Kevin Peterka, Matt Greenberg | Stars: Matthew McConaughey, Christian Bale, Izabella Scorupco | Release Date: July 12, 2002 | Review: IGN's Reign of Fire review | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon or other platforms

Reign of Fire is a thrilling action movie set in a modern world where dragons have emerged as apex predators. After a dragon is accidentally awakened in 2020 England, humanity faces a new era of survival. With a strong cast including Christian Bale and Matthew McConaughey, this film offers an original and gripping take on the dragon movie genre.

2. Dragonheart (1996)

Director: Rob Cohen | Writer: Charles Edward Pogue, Patrick Read Johnson | Stars: Dennis Quaid, Sean Connery, David Thewlis | Release Date: May 31, 1996 | Where to watch: Rent on Amazon and other platforms

Dragonheart is a heartfelt, if somewhat cheesy, film featuring a talented cast. A dragonslaying knight named Bowen (Dennis Quaid) teams up with the last dragon, Draco (voiced by Sean Connery), to defeat an evil king. This dragon is portrayed as sophisticated and patient, causing damage only when necessary. The chemistry between Bowen and Draco adds a charming, buddy-cop dynamic to the story.

1. How to Train your Dragon (2010)

Director: Chris Sanders, Dean DeBlois | Writer: Will Davies, Chris Sanders, Dean DeBlois | Stars: Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler, Craig Ferguson | Release Date: March 26, 2010 | Review: IGN's How to Train Your Dragon review | Where to watch: Stream on Max, rent on Amazon Prime Video and other platforms

How to Train Your Dragon is a charming and heartwarming animated film that blends coming-of-age themes with fantasy. Hiccup (Jay Baruchel), an aspiring dragonslayer, befriends a rare dragon, leading to a transformative friendship that challenges the Viking community's way of life. This film not only excels as a dragon movie but also stands out as a top-tier animated feature.

We anticipate the upcoming live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, set to release in June, might also make it onto this list, possibly even surpassing the original.

What's the best dragon movie of all time? -----------------------------------------

How to Train Your DragonDragonheartEragonMaleficentSpirited AwayThe NeverEnding StoryPete's Dragon (2016)DragonslayerThe Hobbit: The Desolation of SmaugReign of FireSomething else (let us know in the comments!)

AnswerSee ResultsAnd that's our 10 picks of the best dragon movies of all time! Dragons come in many forms, but we can all agree they are very good boys and girls. Are we missing your favorite fire breather? Let us know in the comments.

For more thrilling cinematic experiences, explore our guide to the best shark movies or learn how to watch the Godzilla movies in order.