Movies about dragons or movies with dragons in them are among the most thrilling and adventurous in the realm of cinema. They evoke fantastical imagery, from valiant knights clad in gleaming armor to damsels in distress. Lately, I’ve found myself on a fantasy kick which prompted me to create a list of animated dragon movies that promise excitement and wonder.
Below, you’ll discover 7 exceptional films that showcase the allure of these majestic creatures, including one gem that might be new to you. So, join me as we embark on a journey through the realms of myth and magic with 7 of the greatest animated dragon movies!
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The first dragon movie to kick off our list is Raya and the Last Dragon. In Raya and the Last Dragon, directed by Don Hall and Carlos López Estrada, set in the land of Kumandra, Raya embarks on a quest to reunite her fractured world and banish the Druun, evil spirits that turn everything to stone.
With the help of the last dragon, Sisu, and newfound friends, Raya seeks to restore the broken gem and bring harmony back to Kumandra. However, betrayal and sacrifice test her resolve.
Sisu, the last surviving dragon in Raya and the Last Dragon is depicted as a gentle, compassionate, and whimsical creature. She possesses the ability to shapeshift and is portrayed as optimistic and adventurous. Sisu is driven by a desire to restore peace and unity to the land of Kumandra.
This animated dragon movie is available on Disney+. It blends action, adventure, and fantasy, delivering a tale of trust, friendship, and redemption in a beautifully animated Southeast Asian-inspired setting.
2. How To Train Your Dragon
Next up on our dragon movies list, we have the incredibly popular movie series How To Train Your Dragon. The How to Train Your Dragon franchise, directed by Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois, follows the journey of Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, a young Viking who befriends a dragon named Toothless and strives to unite Vikings and dragons.
The first film, released in 2010, sees Hiccup’s transformation from a dragon-slaying hopeful to a dragon ally. Its 2014 sequel, How to Train Your Dragon 2, explores Hiccup’s discovery of a dragon trapper threat and his reunion with his long-lost mother, Valka. Both films were highly acclaimed and nominated for Academy Awards.
The franchise’s heart lies in the bond between Hiccup and Toothless, a Night Fury dragon with a mysterious and endearing personality, creating a lifelong friendship.
3. My Father’s Dragon
The third dragon movie on our list is My Father’s Dragon. I found this movie to be very funny. Directed by Nora Twomey, My Father’s Dragon tells the story of young Elmer Elevator’s quest to help his family by making friends with a dragon.
When his family faces money problems and moves away, Elmer hears about a dragon on Wild Island who might be able to assist. With the help of a talking cat and a bubbly whale, Elmer finds Boris, a clumsy but lovable dragon. Fun fact- Boris the Dragon is voiced by Stranger Things Actor, Galen Matarazzo!
Together, they face challenges and meet island creatures while avoiding a gorilla named Saiwa. Through bravery and friendship, Elmer and Boris save the island from sinking, teaching important lessons along the way.
This heartwarming tale, available on Netflix, is full of humor, adventure, and lessons about courage and friendship.
4. Spirited Away
Spirited Away, directed by Hayao Miyazaki, follows Chihiro, a young girl who unwittingly enters a world of spirits with her parents. After her parents are turned into pigs by the witch Yubaba, Chihiro must work in Yubaba’s bathhouse to save them and find a way back to the human world.
Along the way, she encounters various spirits, including the dragon-like river spirit, Haku, who helps her navigate the mystical realm. With determination and courage, Chihiro faces challenges and learns valuable lessons about identity and resilience.
This animated dragon movie is available to stream on MAX with a subscription. Haku, a key character in the film, initially appears as a dragon and later reveals his true identity as the spirit of the Kohaku River, aiding Chihiro in her journey.
5. Shrek
The next movie with a dragon is none other than Shrek! In Shrek, directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson, a misunderstood ogre named Shrek embarks on a quest to rescue Princess Fiona from a dragon-guarded castle. Alongside his talkative companion Donkey, Shrek confronts the dragon, expecting a fierce adversary.
To their surprise, the dragon turns out to be a sweet female dragon with pinkish-red scales, long horns, green eyes with long lashes, and lipstick! After Donkey’s charm wins her over, the trio escapes, forming an unexpected bond.
I love that Dragon breaks all of the stereotypes of a fierce male dragon fighting a knight in shining armor. This dragon has a compassionate, lovable soul and often aids Shrek and Donkey on their quests, and makes appearances in multiple movies.
I especially love the fact that Donkey and the dragon have a long-standing relationship and even end up having mixed dragon-donkey babies!
6. Wish Dragon
Wish Dragon, directed by Chris Appelhans, follows Din, a college student in Shanghai, who encounters a wish-granting dragon named Long. Released theatrically in China on January 15, 2021, and globally on Netflix on June 11, 2021, the film centers on Din’s desire to reconnect with his childhood friend Li Na.
When Din receives a magical teapot containing Long, he embarks on a journey to fulfill his wishes. However, complications arise as Din grapples with the consequences of his desires and learns valuable lessons about friendship and selflessness.
When Long first arrives, he magically appears from a teapot, reminiscent of Genie appearing from the lamp in Aladdin. Long is introduced as an ancient talkative dragon with pink scales and purple hair. He has a cunning and witty personality and is astonished by the modern technology in Din’s world, such as electricity and TV.
I particularly enjoy watching the witty banter between Din and Long. They are often found arguing, but in the end, they share a heartwarming story and a lasting friendship!
To end our list, I present you with the unique French animated movie Princess Dragon. In Princess Dragon, directed by Xavier Genest, we follow the story of Princess and Bristle, a dragon with human features.
Bristle, born to Dragon, an ancient red dragon obsessed with his gold, survives a fall despite her human appearance and gains fire-breathing abilities. Accepted by Dragon, she grows alongside her dragon siblings, Rock and Zephyr.
In this movie, you technically get 4 dragons in one movie! Bristle first appears as a small girl with long flowing green hair. Her appearance startles her father, Dragon, but he learns to accept her. As Bristle is out exploring one day, she meets another little girl named Princess. Together, Princess and Bristle team up to protect Dragon and his layer.
To learn more about this fantastic foreign movie with dragons, check out my review here.
Movies with Dragons Conclusion
In conclusion, movies featuring dragons offer captivating tales that often explore themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery. From animated fantasies like Wish Dragon and Princess Dragon to epic adventures like How to Train Your Dragon and Spirited Away, these movies with dragons are a must-watch for those looking for a great fantasy movie to watch.
Have you watched any of these movies with Dragons in them? Do you have another to add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
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As a movie lover, especially classic 2D animation, I launched this blog as a guide to keep fellow enthusiasts updated on the latest news and information about films and shows. Through Movie Prairie, I strive to share my insights and recommendations, inviting you to explore and appreciate the magic of movies just as much as I do. Join me on this as we delve into the captivating world of film together.
