Since there are just not enough Harry Potter films to keep Potterheads busy, it makes sense for them to explore more fantasy films. However, it can be quite difficult to truly satisfy them when they have such strict standards when it comes to quality and intrigue. But, we wanted to suggest some movies that cater to a similar genre. Here are our top picks for great movies like Harry Potter:
15. Fantastic Beasts Films (2016)
The first Fantastic Beasts film was released back in 2016 and was written by the amazing J.K. Rowling herself. The spinoff follows Newt Scamander.
The reason why it is a must-watch is that it takes a close look at young Dumbledore. Learn more about wizarding world history by seeing all the films in the franchise.
14. The Chronicles of Narnia Films (2005 to 2010)
Written by C.S. Lewis, The Chronicles of Narnia films are just as exciting as any other Harry Potter film. The movie follows British siblings as they unravel a magical world when they open a wardrobe.
It is complete with a talking lion, friendly fauns, evil witches, and a beautiful prince. Experience the journey of the siblings as they grow older and make sense of the world while navigating Narnia.
13. Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004)
Starring Jim Carrey and Meryl Streep, the movie involves three young orphans who are sent off to live with a distant relative. However, their relative turns out to be cruel and schemes to inherit what the eldest sibling is supposed to receive.
As the children escape and decide to live with their uncle, their distant relative is not far behind. Watch how the orphans bounce from one caretaker to the next with hopes of living a normal life.
12. The Twilight Saga (2008 to 2012)
Since it is difficult to pick one Twilight movie, we suggest you watch all 5 of them in order. Besides, you might have already noticed that Robert Pattinson also starred in Harry Potter.
Hence, it is always good to see a familiar face. However, he plays a bloodthirsty vampire who falls in love with Kristen Stewart. Based on the book by Stephanie Meyer, the movie does not disappoint.
11. Vampire Academy (2014)
Another vampire movie that we had to include is Vampire Academy. It is about a teenage half-human and half-vampire who studies at St. Vladamir’s Academy.
The fantasy comedy horror flick revolves around Rose who must protect a princess who also happens to be her best friend. With enemies on all sides, there is a lot of action that will leave you glued to your seat.
10. Stardust (2007)
Stardust is a beautiful film set in the magical kingdom of Stormhold. It is about a young man who has to retrieve a fallen star by venturing into unknown territory to impress his love.
However, he quickly realizes that he has to protect a young woman from a king and an evil witch who are after her magic. This leads to him embarking on an adventure of a lifetime.
9. Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series (2010 to 2013)
Similar to Harry Potter, this film adaptation of the beloved book series follows Percy Jackson, a young man who has amazing powers as he is the son of Poseidon.
It covers his adventures as he tries to prevent war on Earth with the help of his friends.
8. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2005)
Based on the Roald Dahl classic, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was directed by the legendary Tim Burton. It stars Johnny Depp who plays the role of Charlie, a young British lad who is selected to visit Willy Wonka’s Chocolate factory when he finds a ticket while eating a candy bar.
The story about the five children and their fantastical visit is worth watching.
7. The Lord of the Rings Series (2001 to 2003)
The Lord of the Rings series is another fantasy movie just like Harry Potter. It brings the fantasy novel written by J.R.R. Tolkien to life.
Set in the fictional world of Middle-Earth, the movie follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit as he journeys with a fellowship to destroy the Dark Lord Sauron and the evil “One Ring”.
6. A Wrinkle in Time (2018)
Starring Oprah Winfrey and directed by Ava DuVernay, A Wrinkle in Time is based on a sci-fi novel that has the same name.
It follows Meg, her friend, and her brother as they make their way through space and time to locate her father who happens to be a scientist. The movie is just as adventurous as Harry Potter and will not disappoint you.
5. Matilda (1996)
Matilda was also written by Roald Dahl. It is about a young girl who is an absolute genius and is neglected by her parents. Her cruel principal makes her life miserable.
However, things take a turn for the positive when she realizes that she has telekinetic powers. Watch how she fights her enemies.
4. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children is also directed by Tim Burton and follows Jacob, a teenager who finds a magical school where he encounters strange children who possess special abilities.
He soon realizes that he is caught in a dangerous trap that is a cross between different worlds.
3. The Hunger Games Series (2012 to 2015)
The Hunger Games is an outstanding trilogy that is about Katniss Everdeen, a teenager who fights the order to save her life. As she fights for her life in the Hunger Games which is a televised event that is held regularly.
While she is pitted against other children, she falls in love and has to battle to survive.
2. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
Although Pan’s Labyrinth might seem creepy at first, it is an excellent fantasy foreign film.
It perfectly captures the Spanish Civil War and tells the tale of Ofelia, a young girl who encounters a mythical faun that requires her to perform three deadly tasks to be crowned the princess of the underworld.
1. The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008)
When Simon, a mischievous boy moves to a relative’s home, he finds a book that guides him through a fantastical world. Watch how he navigates the existence of magical creatures and tries to save his family.
The movie can be slightly terrifying to watch. Hence, you might want to watch it with a friend.
Honorable Mentions
- Alice in Wonderland (2010)
- Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
- The Golden Compass (2007)
We hope you enjoyed reading our list of great movies like Harry Potter. Share your thoughts in the comments below.
