Dad's Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films - Ranked!

Countdown from #20 to #1.

This includes Dad's spoiler-free Mini-Preview!

Honorable Mention

Shrek 2 (2004), Directors: Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury, Conrad Vernon, rated PG

Once upon another time...

Film ClipStarring: (the voice talents of) Mike Meyers, Eddie Murphy, Cameron Diaz, Julie Andrews, Antonio Banderas, Rupert Everett, Jennifer Saunders, Joan Rivers, Larry King, Cody Cameron, Conrad Vernon

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"Oh, Shrek. Don't worry. Things just seem bad because it's dark and rainy and Fiona's father hired a sleazy hitman to whack you." - Donkey

Why watch this? Dare I say it's a bit better than the original? There, I said it.

Plot Summary: To please Fiona's human parents in the glamorous kingdom of Far Far Away, Shrek seeks a magical potion to transform himself, bringing a swashbuckling feline assassin named Puss in Boots along for the journey. Meanwhile, Fiona's vengeful Fairy Godmother schemes with her own son to tear the royal couple apart, using the magic of a twisted fairytale to rewrite their "happily ever after".

  Dad's Preview: This delightful sequel, to a surprise DreamWorks animated hit, has all the original did, plus more. It is at least as good, if not a smidge better. Here the theme is what really occurs after "happily ever after", when life goes on and the groom has to get to know the in-laws. Throw in a scheming father-in-law, a demented fairy godmother, and an adorable, swashbuckling assassin-cat and you've got a fast-paced adventure cartoon that offers fun for children and adults alike. There are several cute Easter eggs related to pop culture, and the film's music, using familiar hits and original songs, rings true. Whether you liked the original or not, this film brings us home to our favorite, flatulent, green ogre.  


DreamWorks Animation, PDI/Dreamworks;
DreamWorks Pictures

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #20     Top

Life of Pi (2012), Director: Ang Lee, rated PG

Welcome to Pi's Ark.

Film ClipStarring: Suraj Sharma, Irrfan Khan, Adil Hussain, Tabu, Rafe Spall, Gérard Depardieu, James Saito, Jun Naito, Andrea Di Stefano

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"Faith is a house with many rooms." - Pi Patel (as an adult)

Why watch this? A man tells his life story, but it feels more like an inspiring dream.

Plot Summary: A young man named Pi survives a shipwreck and finds himself stranded on a lifeboat in the Pacific Ocean. He is not alone, however, as his only companion is a fearsome Bengal tiger named Richard Parker. Pi must use his wits and resilience to survive against the harsh elements and the wild animal, forming an unexpected and profound connection with the tiger along the way.

  Dad's Preview: Pi Patel, in a recanted story of his life, describes a disastrous sinking at sea. Director Ang Lee brings this incredible (and called "un-filmable") book to glorious life in this visually stunning movie. Nominated for 11 Oscars, this strange, fantasy-filled movie brought home four, including Best Director and Best Visual Effects.  


Fox 2000 Pics, Dune Ent., Ingenious
Media, Haishang Films; 20th Century Fox

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #19     Top

Howl's Moving Castle (2004), Director: Hayao Miyazaki, rated PG

A magician, a witch, a castle that has life. A fantastic journey into the world of imagination.

Film ClipStarring: (the American voice talents of) Emily Mortimer, Jean Simmons, Christian Bale, Lauren Bacall, Billy Crystal, John Hutcherson, Blythe Danner, Jena Malone, Mari Devon

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"Knowing you'd be there gave me the courage to show up. That woman terrifies me. I can't face her on my own. You saved me, Sophie. I was in big trouble back there." - Howl's reply to Sophie's question why she had to go meet with the sorceress Suliman

Why watch this? It's a creative, beautiful fantasy to behold.

Plot Summary: After being cursed with old age by a witch, a timid young hat maker named Sophie seeks a cure and finds refuge in the strange, walking castle of the notorious but insecure wizard, Howl. Assuming the role of a cleaning lady, she gradually grows closer to Howl and his quirky companions, while also trying to break a mysterious contract he has with a fire demon that powers the castle. As Sophie begins to develop her own confidence, she helps Howl confront his deepest fears and protect them both from the dangers of a senseless war engulfing their world.

  Dad's Preview: After watching of few of Miyazaki's films, you start to realize that you are seeing individual works of art, each one more elaborate than the last. His fantasy world-building skills are second-to-none. Everywhere there are steam-punk contraptions, the bustle of people, and beings from other realms. It is a lot to take in. Here the universal themes at play are war's senseless price, seeing things with different eyes, and the ever-present relationship between man and nature. Though the plot meanders a bit in the second half, there are always new, breathtaking cityscapes, or semi-organic warships or mountain vistas around the next corner. Kids will enjoy the fantastical story, and adults will appreciate the complexities of its plot.  


Studio Ghibli; Toho

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #18     Top

Frozen (2013), Directors: Chris Buck, Jennifer Lee, rated PG

An Act of True Love Will Thaw a Frozen Heart

Film ClipStarring: (the voice talents of:) Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff, Josh Gad, Santino Fontana, Alan Tudyk, Ciarán Hinds, Chris Williams, Paul Briggs

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"No! Why? Why do you shut me out? Why do you shut the world out? What are you so afraid of?" - Anna to Elsa

Why watch this? It is a wonderful story of sisters and healing old wounds.

Plot Summary: After queen-to-be Elsa accidentally uses her secret cryo-kinetic powers to plunge the kingdom of Arendelle into an eternal winter, she flees to the mountains in fear of her own abilities. Her optimistic younger sister, Anna, teams up with mountain man Kristoff, his reindeer Sven, and a living snowman named Olaf to journey through dangerous conditions to find her. Together, they race against time to mend the sisters' broken bond, reverse the icy spell, and save the kingdom from a permanent freeze.

  Dad's Preview: This delightful wintry fairytale centers on a feud between two sisters: the ordinary Anna, and the chilling Snow Queen, Elsa. It is into this storyline that Disney injects an entertaining cast of characters centered on all things snowy and Scandinavian. There's talking snow creatures, reindeer, princesses, princes, love, disappointment and betrayal - all a healthy Eskimo needs. There are some really awesome musical numbers. Some critics even compare Frozen to, dare we say, the Disney classics Beauty and the Beast (1991) and The Lion King (1994). I will not go that far, but it's closer than you might think.  


Walt Disney Animation Studios; Walt Disney
Studios Motion Pictures

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #17     Top

Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954), Director: Jack Arnold, rated G

Not since the beginning of time has the world beheld terror like this!

Film ClipStarring: Richard Carlson, Julia Adams, Richard Denning, Antonio Moreno, Nestor Paiva, Whit Bissell, Bernie Gozier

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★☆☆ - great

"I can tell you something about this place. The boys around here call it "The Black Lagoon" - a paradise. Only they say nobody has ever come back to prove it." - Lucas

Why watch this? Can undiscovered humanoid creatures exist? Bigfoot? Yeti? A Creature? (My wife thinks so.)

Plot Summary: A scientific expedition ventures into the Amazon, discovering a prehistoric amphibious creature in a secluded lagoon. The creature, known as the Gill-man, becomes fascinated with a female scientist on the team. This leads to thrilling and suspenseful encounters as the team attempts to capture the creature, while also dealing with its attempts to abduct the woman.

  Dad's Preview: This addition to Universal Studios' stable of monster films has long been one of my favorites. The creature's costume design is organically intricate. I know this because I constructed the Aurura model kit of the famed aquatic humanoid.  Campiness never felt so good in this creepy creature-feature. There is an eerie beauty on display as he swims beneath the young lady without her knowledge. Of course, then he kidnaps her, absconding to her lair.  


William Alland; Universal-International

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #16     Top

7 Faces of Dr. Lao (1964), Director: George Pal, rated Approved

Bolt the doors! Lock the windows! Dr. Lao's coming to town!

Film ClipStarring: Tony Randall, Arthur O’Connell, Barbara Eden, John Ericson, Noah Berry Jr., Kevin Tate, Royal Dano

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"This is the circus of Dr. Lao. We show you things that you don't know. We've spared no pains and spared no dough, but we wanted to give you one helluva show!" - Dr. Lao

Why watch this? For its time, this was a strange, wonderful film to behold.

Plot Summary: In the dusty town of Abalone, Arizona, the arrival of a mysterious circus led by the enigmatic Dr. Lao disrupts the lives of its inhabitants. Through his fantastical acts and mythical creatures, Dr. Lao's circus challenges the townspeople to confront their flaws, desires, and personal truths. Most people walk away spooked, but a little wiser. For others, the lesson can be more terrifying.

 

Dad's Preview: As a kid in the 1960's, this delightful film was a rarity. The genre-bending Western film combined drama, fantasy and comedy. Tony Randall (of TV's The Odd Couple) gives an amazing performance as he portrays seven different characters in this fantastical morality tale. One by one, the film's various characters are hit upside the head with the truth about who they really are. Still today, this is a great fantasy film to watch... and don't stare into the eyes of the Gorgon!

 


George Pal; Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #15     Top

Coco (2017), Director: Lee Unkrich, rated PG

The celebration of a lifetime

Film ClipStarring: (the voice talents of:) Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt, Alanna Ubach, Renée Victor, Ana Ofelia Murguía, Edward James Olmos, Alfonso Arau, Selene Luna, Jaime Camil, Natalia Cordova-Buckley 

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"Our memories, they have to be passed down by those who knew us in life - in the stories they tell about us. But there's no one left alive to pass down Cheech's stories... Hey, it happens to everyone eventually." - Héctor

Why watch this? A wonderful children's film about life, and death, and the important in-between.

Plot Summary: A young boy named Miguel dreams of becoming a musician, despite his family's long-standing ban on music. On Día de Muertos, a series of events leads him to the vibrant Land of the Dead. There, he embarks on a journey to find his deceased great-great-grandfather, a legendary singer, and uncover the truth about his family's past.

  Dad's Preview: Why are we so afraid of death? It is human nature and fear of the unknown. This delightful, colorful Latino-based film explores death, and many more very adult topics such as: the impact a missing father can have, old grudges and the damage they do, and the importance of pursuing your heart's dream, regardless of the many naysayers. Yet, children will love it, too. The Pixar animation, once again, out-does itself. The choice to zip up and infuse brightness, and life, into the land of the dead was brilliant. In many ways it is as creative as Up (2009) or Inside Out (2015). The concept of the hereafter is unique and well-done. We all get to experience Miguel's arduous journey to be himself, while honoring his family. This film is about as good as it gets if you are looking for an experience to make you feel really good inside.   


Pixar Animation Studios; Walt Disney
Studios Motion Pictures

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #14     Top

The Dark Crystal (1982), Directors: Jim Henson, Frank Oz, rated PG

Another World, Another Time... In the Age of Wonder.

Film ClipStarring: Stephen Garlick, Lisa Maxwell, Billie Whitelaw, Percy Edwards, Barry Dennen, Michael Kilgarriff, Sean Barrett, Joseph O'Conor

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"When single shines the triple sun / What was sundered and undone / Shall be whole, the two made one / By gelfling hand or else by none." - Jen

Why watch this? This wonderful fantasy movie is visually stunning.

Plot Summary: This fantasy film, directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz, is set on the fantastic alien world of Thra. It tells the story of Jen, a young Gelfling, who is tasked with a quest to find a missing shard splintered from a powerful crystal and heal his world. This endeavor is crucial to ending the tyrannical reign of villainous, bird-like creatures known as the Skeksis.

  Dad's Preview: TV's legendary Jim Henson (Sesame Street and The Muppet Show) created this imaginative world for his first film. All scenes, beings, and masterful details are amazing to take in - all characters, beings and creatures were crafted before CGI was a thing. You don't have to be a fantasy or sci-fi nerd to enjoy this treasure, with it's universal themes of good and evil.  


ITC Ent., Henson Associates;
Universal Pictures Assoc. Film Dist.

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #13     Top

The Valley of Gwangi (1969), Director: Jim O'Connolly, rated Approved

Cowboys Battle Monsters in the Lost World of Forbidden Valley!

Film ClipStarring: James Franciscus, Gila Golan, Richard Carlson, Laurence Naismith, Freda Jackson, Gustavo Rojo, Dennis Kilbane, Curtis Arden

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

DML Top 50 #39 - Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review and Deep Dive of The Valley of Gwangi

"He who takes from Gwangi the evil one is cursed." – Tia Zorina, the gypsy woman

Why watch this? ... to see the amazing spectacle that is Gwangi!

Plot Summary: When a struggling Wild West show, in early 20th-century Mexico, encounters a prehistoric horse, it leads them to a hidden valley teeming with dinosaurs. Driven by the desire for fame and fortune, the show's cowboys capture a formidable Allosaurus, known as Gwangi, intending to exhibit it as a grand attraction. However, their plans quickly unravel when the captured creature proves impossible to control.
 
  Dad's Preview: As a young boy, I loved dinosaur movies and Westerns. You can imagine my elation when a preview at the local drive-in advertised Gwangi! I lost my mind. Cowboys discover dinosaurs in a hidden valley. The film itself did not disappoint. It features some of Ray Harryhausen's finest stop-motion animation, including a tiny horse, and numerous prehistoric beasties. This hidden gem increased my appetite for more Harryhausen films I am happy to say.  


Charles H. Schneer Prod.;
Warner Bros.-Seven Arts

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #12      Top

Pan's Labyrinth (2006), Director: Guillermo del Toro, rated R for violence, scary images

In darkness, there can be light. In misery, there can be beauty. In death, there can be life...

Film ClipStarring: Sergi López, Maribel Verdú, Ivana Baquero, Doug Jones, Ariadna Gil, Álex Angulo, Manolo Solor

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"I've had so many names. Old names that only the wind and the trees can pronounce. I am the mountain, the forest and the earth. I am... I am a faun. Your most humble servant, Your Highness." - Pan to Ofelia

Why watch this? As wise critic Roger Ebert penned, "It is a fairy tale for grown-ups".

Plot Summary: Set in Spain during WWII, a young girl, Ofelia, and her pregnant mother move into the compound where her ruthless father-in-law, Captain Vidal, resides. Vidal, a sadistic leader, is responsible for suppressing a band of rebels who resist the Francoist regime. He is cruel, especially to Ofelia. To cope, the girl escapes to an imaginary world of fairies and creatures. Within a nearby stone maze, she encounters the bizarre, horned Pan, a faun who gives her three tasks to prove her worthiness to become a princess.

  Dad's Preview: There is a mood that del Toro brings to his films. It is dark, dirty, and very scary. It is very intentional that the audience is uncertain whether our young protagonist is dreaming or lucid. Perhaps it is a little of both. I was impressed with the performance by Ivana Baquero as Ofelia, a girl searching for comfort in a world of pain. This allegorical, fantastic film won buckets of awards, and sits atop many lists as greatest fantasy film.  


Estudios Picasso, Tequila Gang, Esperanto
 Filmoj, Sententia Ent.; Warner Bros. Pictures

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #11      Top

Princess Mononoke (1997), Director: Hayao Miyazaki, rated PG-13

The Fate Of The World Rests On The Courage Of One Warrior.

Film ClipStarring: (English voice cast:) Billy Crudup, Claire Danes, Minnie Driver, Billy Bob Thornton, John DeMita, John DiMaggio, Jada Pinkett Smith, Gillian Anderson, Debi Derryberry, Keith David, Tara Strong

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"Now watch closely, everyone. I'm going to show you how to kill a god. A god of life and death. The trick is not to fear him." - Lady Eboshi

Why watch this? It is yet another wonderful animated treasure from the mind of Hayao Miyazaki.

Plot Summary: Set in the Muromachi period of Japanese history, young Prince Ashitaka is cursed by a demonized boar god and must journey to the west to find a cure. There, he becomes embroiled in a conflict between Iron Town, a community encroaching upon the forest and its inhabitants, and the forest spirits, led by the enigmatic Princess Mononoke. Ashitaka attempts to mediate between the opposing forces, seeking a path to coexistence before the escalating violence consumes both humans and nature.

  Dad's Preview: If you enjoyed Dorothy's journey in Oz, or Charlie's adventure in Willie's factory, then this amazing fantasy fare might be right up your alley. Director/Writer Miyazaki creates such incredible visuals that, at first, you might be overwhelmed. This quest through Japanese mythology, where demons and forest gods hold considerable power over humans, plays like a Greek tragedy. As man moves becomes more dominant, nature and the gods of nature, must be destroyed to enable man to essentially rape the natural world of its resources. Standing in the way are a brave warrior, and a wolf whisperer, both determined to stop the human's rampant destruction. The animation is off-the-charts amazing, and the story rich with allegory. A visit to this world will leave you wondering about humankind, and our role in preserving the natural world we live in. James Cameron said this film influenced his meta-hit, Avatar (2009).  


Studio Ghibli; Toho

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #10      Top

Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989), Director: Steven Spielberg, rated PG-13 for violence

Have the Adventure of Your Life Keeping Up With the Joneses.

Film ClipStarring: Harrison Ford, Sean Connery, Denholm Elliott, Alison Doody, John Rhys-Davies, Julian Glover, River Phoenix, Michael Byrne

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"The quest for the Grail is not archaeology; it's a race against evil! If it is captured by the Nazis, the armies of darkness will march all over the face of the Earth! Do you understand me?" – Dr. Henry Jones

Why watch this? It really IS almost as good as Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)!

Plot Summary: Archaeologist Indiana Jones learns that his estranged father, Professor Henry Jones Sr., has vanished while searching for the Holy Grail. Indy follows clues in his father's Grail diary and teams up with Dr. Elsa Schneider, unaware of her true motives. They eventually face off against the Nazis (again), who are also determined to find the Grail for Hitler's own sinister purposes.
 
  Dad's Preview: Spielberg and Lucas return to familiar territory to give us this wonderful third Indy film. Back are loyal sidekicks Sallah and Marcus Brody, and we're again battling those pesky Nazis. Our archeologists are searching for another biblical artifact, but first they must find Indy's father, portrayed wonderfully by Sir Sean Connery. He puts Indy in his place more than once. Once father and son are reunited, the film follows a tricky path towards the holy grail, filled with action and double-crosses. It's so nice to see these seasoned actors together on screen having such a good time.  


Lucasfilm Ltd.; Paramount Pictures

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #9      Top

The Lion King (1994), Directors: Roger Allers, Rob Minkoff, rated G

The greatest adventure of all is finding our place in the circle of life.

Film ClipStarring: Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Matthew Broderick, James Earl Jones, Jeremy Irons, Moira Kelly, Ernie Sabella, Nathan Lane, Robert Guillaume, Whoopi Goldberg, Cheech Marin

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

"When we die, our bodies become the grass, and the antelope eat the grass. And so we are all connected in the great Circle of Life." - Mufasa

Why watch this? ... It is one of the best of the 90's Disney classics.

Plot Summary: A young lion cub, Simba, is destined to rule the Pride Lands, but his bitter uncle, Scar, plots against him and his father, King Mufasa. Simba is led to believe he is responsible for his father's death and flees into exile, where he befriends Timon and Pumbaa. Years later, his past returns to haunt him, and he must decide whether to reclaim his rightful place and face his demons.

  Dad's Preview: We wore out this Disney VHS tape. Our kids were mesmerized by the cute animals and catchy tunes. It really is a magical story of families and growing up to face responsibility. To that, you only have to add a wise mandrill, a witty lemur and a smelly warthog. And viola! - A great animated classic is born! Today, I still cry numerous times during this musical romp through scenic Africa.  


Walt Disney Feature Animation;
Buena Vista Pictures Dist.

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #8      Top

Spirited Away (2001, U.S. release date 2002), Director: Hayao Miyazaki, rated PG

Prepare to be spirited away.

Film ClipStarring: Rumi Hiiragi, Miyu Irino, Mari Natsuki, Takeshi Naito, Yasuko Sawaguchi
English dub - Daveigh Chase, Jason Marsden, Suzanne Pleshette, Lauren Holly, Michael Chiklis, David Ogden Stiers

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

"Three days of eating our food and her smell will go away. And if she doesn't work hard, roast her, boil her, do whatever you want. Now get back to work." - Haku

Why watch this? You need to experience this visual wonder conveyed by Hayao Miyazaki.

Plot Summary: During her family's move, a sullen 10-year-old girl named Chihiro wanders into a world ruled by gods, witches, and spirits. Her parents are transformed into pigs after eating unattended food in an abandoned amusement park, leaving Chihiro trapped in this strange realm. To survive and find a way back, Chihiro must secure employment at a bathhouse for spirits, where she encounters various magical beings and faces numerous challenges.

  Dad's Preview: Though this was released by Disney, it's  not a Disney film, and I suggest that it's not really for small children. It is a wonderful fable about a young girl's dream-like transition from child to young adult. Throw in a lot of creative symbolism, some of which has meaning, some not so much. It is visually wild, and you'll wonder, "Who thinks up this stuff?" Director Miyazaki apparently, and thank goodness for his unique perspective. Who also loved it was the Academy, rewarding this with the Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film.  


Studio Ghibli; Toho

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #7      Top

Highlander (1986), Director: Russell Mulcahy, rated R for violence, language

There can be only one.

Film ClipStarring: Christopher Lambert, Sean Connery, Clancy Brown, Roxanne Hart, Alan North, Beatie Edney, Sheila Gish, Jon Polito, Hugh Quarshie

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

"The Kurgan. He is the strongest of all the immortals. He's the perfect warrior. If he wins the Prize mortal man would suffer an eternity of darkness." - Juan Sanchez Villa-Lobos Ramirez

Why watch this? ... the wonderful blend of history and sci-fi sets this action film apart.

Plot Summary: Connor MacLeod, a 16th-century Scottish Highlander, discovers that he is immortal after surviving a seemingly fatal battle wound. He is trained by another immortal named Ramirez, who explains that immortals can only be killed by decapitation and are destined to fight each other until only a few remain for The Gathering. In 1985 New York City, Connor must face his ancient nemesis, the evil Kurgan, in a final battle for the ultimate Prize.

  Dad's Preview: The mid 80's hatched a sea of action films ranging from good to bad, most of the bad films being rip-offs of something that was a surprise success. Highlander was definitely one of the good ones thanks to its creative plot and, of course, Sean Connery. It is part old-world adventure, science fiction and gritty crime drama. It covers a lot ground (and time periods), but never stops being fun. I love the performances from Connery and the over-the-top Clancy Brown, as the demonic immortal, Kurgan.  


Thorn EMI Screen Ent., Highlander Prod.,
Davis-Panzer Prod.; 20th Century Fox

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #6      Top

Time Bandits (1981), Director: Terry Gilliam, rated PG

... they didn't make history, they stole it!

Film ClipStarring: John Cleese, Sean Connery, Shelley Duvall, Ian Holm, Katherine Helmond, Michael Palin, David Warner

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

"God is not interested in technology... He's obsessed with making the grass grow and getting rainbows right. Look at what he spends his time on: Forty-three species of parrot! Nipples for men!" - Evil

Why watch this? It's a fantasy comedy. Plus most of the Monty Python players have roles!

Plot Summary: Kevin, a young boy fascinated by history, is unexpectedly drawn into a fantastical adventure through time when a group of thieving dwarfs escape into his bedroom through a time portal. The dwarfs, former employees of the Supreme Being, have stolen a map detailing all of the time holes, which they use to jump through different eras to steal treasures. Pursued by both the Supreme Being and the powerful Evil Genius, Kevin joins the dwarfs on their journey, encountering various historical figures along the way.

  Dad's Preview: Written and directed by the creative mind of Monty Pythoner Terry Gilliam, this magical journey takes us to many places in both history and fantasy, each populated by a cast of quirky characters. You will wonder, "Did this film's creator do some mushrooms?!" We witness Napoleon's madness, an Ogre with a backache, and heck, even Sean Connery battles a towering Minotaur! David Warner is excellent as the personification of evil. It's witty, imaginative fun for the whole family.  


HandMade Films; HandMade Films Dist. Ltd.

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #5      Top

Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981), Director: Steven Spielberg, rated PG for violence, disturbing scenes

Indiana Jones - the new hero from the creators of JAWS and STAR WARS.

Film ClipStarring: Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman, Ronald Lacey, John Rhys-Davies, Denholm Elliott

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

DML Top 50 #6 - Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review and Deep Dive of Raiders of the Lost Ark

"An army which carries the Ark before it... is invincible." - Marcus Brody

Why watch this? This ode to actions serials of the past combined the '80's hottest star and director.

Plot Summary: In 1936, archaeologist Indiana Jones is tasked by the U.S. government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis, who believe its power could make their army invincible. He embarks on a thrilling adventure, navigating treacherous locations like Nepal and Egypt while facing off against dangerous adversaries and overcoming perilous obstacles. Joined by his spirited ex-flame Marion Ravenwood, Indy races against time to secure the legendary relic and prevent its devastating power from falling into the wrong hands.

  Dad's Preview: George Lucas (Star Wars) and Steven Spielberg (Jaws) worked together on this little side project for the hunky Harrison Ford. The result was a cinematic homage to the one-reel, action-packed serials of the 1930's. Raiders transcends its own genre and stands alone as a masterpiece of the white-knuckle adventure film. It features a stellar supporting cast and an amazing John Williams' soundtrack. The result was solid gold. This film catapulted Ford's career as a legitimate international superstar, and gave Spielberg the power to make any film he wanted.  


Lucasfilm Ltd.; Paramount Pictures

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #4      Top

The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1974), Director: Gordon Hessler, rated G

Sinbad Battles the Creatures of Legend in the Miracle of Dynarama!

Film ClipStarring: John Phillip Law, Tom Baker, Takis Emmanuel, Caroline Munro, Douglas Wilmer, Martin Shaw

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★☆ - near perfect

"Trust in Allah, but tie up your camel." - Sinbad

Why watch this? This is vintage, wonderful Ray Harryhausen - it may be his best work.

Plot Summary: Sinbad discovers a magical golden amulet that sets him on a dangerous quest to find the legendary Fountain of Destiny located on the uncharted island of Lemuria. He is joined by a vizier and a mysterious slave girl as they embark on a journey filled with mythical creatures, tempests, and dark interference from the evil sorcerer Koura. Sinbad must battle Koura and his magical creations to unlock the amulet's power and reach the fabled fountain.
 
  Dad's Preview: This treasure almost made DML Top50, but lost out to Valley of Gwangi (1969). This is the best of Ray's Sinbad films. As Sinbad and his crew work to restore the Grand Vizier to this rightful throne, they must battle a sorcerer and his powerful magic and monstrous giant creatures. The acting feels natural, the villain is deliciously evil, and the special effects - well... they're freakin' awesome! Also, an un-credited Robert Shaw lent his talents to portray the ghastly "Oracle of All Knowledge" (The British actor felt this cameo was "beneath him", so he insisted on being uncredited).  


Morningside Productions; Columbia Pictures

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #3     Top

Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003), Director: Gore Verbinski, rated PG-13 for undead violence, scary scenes

Prepare to be blown out of the water.

Film ClipStarring: Johnny Depp, Geoffrey Rush, Orlando Bloom, Keira Knightley, Jonathan Pryce, Jack Davenport, Kevin R. McNally, Zoe Saldana

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

DML Top 50 #49 - Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review and Deep Dive of Curse of the Black Pearl

"You best start believin' in ghost stories, Miss Turner. You're in one!" - Capt. Barbossa

Why watch this? It's piraty. It's spooky. It's Knightley. It's Deppy.

Plot Summary: Blacksmith Will Turner and eccentric pirate Captain Jack Sparrow team up to rescue Elizabeth Swann, the daughter of Governor Swann, after she is kidnapped by pirates of the Black Pearl. This perilous journey involves commandeering a ship, recruiting a motley crew, and confronting the treacherous Captain Barbossa, a former ally of Jack, who stole his ship.

  Dad's Preview: I like heroes. I also like them covered in dirt. They need a murky past. Tattoos are good - and a quirky personality. This film struck a gold mine by casting Johnny Depp (BTW, Hugh Jackman was the first choice) as Captain Jack Sparrow, and his performance knocks the film out of the Disney theme park ride that inspired it. The plot and special effects are superb in this swashbuckling, supernatural, pirate adventure.  


Walt Disney Pics, Jerry Bruckheimer Films;
Buena Vista Pictures Dist.

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #2a      Top

The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), Director: Peter Jackson, Rated PG-13 for sci-fi violence

ONE RING TO RULE THEM ALL.

Film ClipStarring: Ian McKellen, Elijah Wood, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin, Orlando Bloom, John Rhys-Davies, Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, Liv Tyler, Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving, Sean Bean, Ian Holm

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

DML Top 50 #5a - Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review and Deep Dive of LOTR: The Fellowship of the Ring

"It is a strange fate that we should suffer so much fear and doubt over so small a thing. Such a little thing." - Boromir, about the ring Frodo has found

Why watch this? The first of Jackson's Tolkien film adaptations will lock you in for more.

Plot Summary: The fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance as the Dark Lord Sauron seeks to regain the One Ring, a powerful object containing a part of his might. The Ring has fallen into the hands of young hobbit Frodo Baggins, who learns from the wizard Gandalf that it must be destroyed. Frodo and eight companions, forming the Fellowship of the Ring, embark on a perilous journey to Mordor, the only place where the Ring can be unmade in the fires of Mount Doom.

  Dad's Preview: This is the first film in the most wonderful fantasy trilogy ever made. Here, Middle Earth's diverse main characters are introduced, and the epic journey begins. It starts in the green shire, home to the peaceful Hobbits, then traverses fields, quiet hamlets, dank forests, expansive plains, snowy mountains, and finally the dark, goblin-infested labyrinths of the Mines of Moria. It's epic and emotionally taxing, as the fragile Fellowship trudges onward on its quest to destroy the one thing that is evil manifested - the ring of power, which makes it a target of the burning eye of Sauron, the evil Lord who craves it the most.  


WingNut Films; New Line Cinema

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #2b      Top

The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002), Director: Peter Jackson, Rated PG-13 for sci-fi violence

THE BATTLE FOR MIDDLE-EARTH BEGINS!

Film ClipStarring: Ian McKellen, Elijah Wood, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin, Orlando Bloom, John Rhys-Davies, Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, Andy Serkis, Liv Tyler, Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving, Karl Urban, Bernard Hill

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

DML Top 50 #5b - Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review and Deep Dive of LOTR: The Two Towers

"So much death. What can men do against such reckless hate?" – King Théoden before the Battle of Helm's Deep

Why watch this? The second film perfectly stands on its own with attention to story and amazing battle sequences.

Plot Summary: The Fellowship is now scattered as the fight against Sauron and his allies intensifies. Frodo and Sam continue their perilous journey to destroy the One Ring, while being trailed by the enigmatic creature Gollum. Meanwhile, Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli unite with a resurrected Gandalf to rally the forces of Rohan against Saruman's growing army and defend the stronghold of Helm's Deep. The hobbits Merry and Pippin find themselves in the ancient Fangorn Forest and encounter the tree-like Ents, whom they must convince to join the fight against the encroaching darkness.

  Dad's Preview: The brave Fellowship has been torn asunder, their wise leader dragged into fiery darkness. Director Peter Jackson continued his beloved film adaptation of J. R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings with determination to get it right. The middle film adds richness to each Fellowship member, and brings new players (some heroic, some tragic) into focus. We also are introduced to a key antagonist, the sinister Golem, who desires the return of his ring. The massive battle at Helm's Deep is unforgettable. But the war is not over and we are left wanting a conclusion to this fantastical tale.  


WingNut Films; New Line Cinema

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #2c      Top

The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (2003), Director: Peter Jackson, Rated PG-13 for sci-fi violence

THE EYE OF THE ENEMY IS MOVING.

Film ClipStarring: Ian McKellen, Elijah Wood, Viggo Mortensen, Sean Astin, Orlando Bloom, John Rhys-Davies, Billy Boyd, Dominic Monaghan, Andy Serkis, Liv Tyler, Cate Blanchett, Hugo Weaving, Karl Urban, Bernard Hill

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

DML Top 50 #5c - Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review and Deep Dive of LOTR: The Return of the King

"We come to it, at last. The great battle of our time." - Gandalf the White

Why watch this? After two massive films, this delivers on all open plot threads and every moment is a treasure.

Plot Summary: The forces of good launch a final, desperate struggle against Sauron's overwhelming armies as Frodo and Sam undertake the harrowing final stages of their quest to destroy the One Ring. Aragorn embraces his destiny as the rightful king of Gondor and leads the forces of men in battle, while Frodo and Sam, guided by the treacherous Gollum, navigate the perilous lands of Mordor towards Mount Doom. As the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance, each character faces their own trials of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice in the hope of defeating the Dark Lord and restoring peace to the land.

  Dad's Preview: As the principal characters inch ever closer to their fates, we feel the weight, Frodo's weight, and it is almost too much to bear. With Gimli, Legolas and Aragon lost inside the mountain pass, the army of man, led by Gandalf and King Théoden, must prevail in the final battle at the foot of towering Minas Tirith, the White City. All this is to buy time for two hobbits, Frodo and Sam, to reach the fires of Mount Doom and destroy the ring. They encounter danger at every turn, the worst being the betrayal of Golem.This Oscar-winning final chapter is without question the finest fantasy film ever made.  


WingNut Films; New Line Cinema

Top 20 Fantasy Adventure Films #1      Top

Excalibur (1981), Director: John Boorman, rated PG for some nudity, Medieval violence

Forged by a god. Foretold by a wizard. Found by a King.

Film ClipStarring:  Nigel Terry, Helen Mirren, Nicholas Clay, Nicol Williamson, Liam Neeson, Patrick Stewart, Cherie Lunghi

DML Rating: ★★★★★★★★★★ - perfect

DML Top 50 #38 - Dad's Full (Spoiler) Review and Deep Dive of Excalibur

"You will be the land, and the land will be you. If you fail, the land will perish; as you thrive, the land will blossom." - Merlin

Why watch this? ... because it is the Arthurian legend in vivid, wonderful detail.

Plot Summary: Told here is the epic tale of King Arthur, tracing his journey from humble beginnings to the throne of a unified Britain. Guided by the enigmatic wizard Merlin, Arthur establishes the legendary Round Table and builds the realm of Camelot, ushering in an era of peace and prosperity. However, the kingdom's glory is threatened by internal strife, including betrayal, forbidden love, and the insidious plots of Arthur's treacherous half-sister, the sorceress Morgana.

  Dad's Preview: You've heard the stories... the wise King Arthur... the sword in the stone... the mysterious sorcerer Merlin... Sir Lancelot the brave. British director John Boorman masterfully wrought this film about those legends, and it is perfection to behold. Like a spell's dream, we witness each event in many instances through Merlin's eyes. It's hypnotic, heroic, tragic, and wonderfully allegorical. It really is a fable come to life.  


Orion Pictures, Cinema '84; Warner Bros.