- The Princess Bride (1987)
- The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
- The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)
- The Golden Compass (2007)
- Stardust (2007)
- The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010)
- The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
- The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
- The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
- The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
Fancy a bit of escapism into a world where luxury and fantasy intertwine? Here's a curated list of 10 films that will transport you to realms of unimaginable wealth, magical extravagance, and sumptuous settings. These films not only showcase the allure of the fantastical but also indulge in the visual feast of lavish lifestyles, making them a perfect treat for those who appreciate the finer things in life, even in a make-believe world.

The Princess Bride (1987)
Description: This beloved fairy tale features a princess, a farmhand, and a host of memorable characters. The film's portrayal of the royal wedding and the lavish settings of the castle add to its charm, making it a classic in fantasy luxury.
Fact: The film has a cult following, with fans often quoting lines and reenacting scenes at conventions.


The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)
Description: This adaptation of C.S. Lewis's classic novel brings to life the magical world of Narnia, ruled by the White Witch in a palace of ice and luxury. The film's depiction of the White Witch's castle and the lavish feast she hosts is a highlight of fantasy opulence.
Fact: The film's production was so extensive that it required the construction of the largest indoor set ever built in Australia.


The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement (2004)
Description: This delightful sequel transports us to the opulent world of Genovia, where Princess Mia must find a suitable prince to marry. The film is a visual spectacle of royal luxury, from the grand balls to the sumptuous palace interiors, making it a perfect fit for our list.
Fact: The film was shot in real-life luxurious locations, including the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, which served as the Genovian palace.


The Golden Compass (2007)
Description: Based on Philip Pullman's novel, this film introduces us to a parallel universe where luxury and magic coexist. The film's portrayal of the opulent settings of the Magisterium and the lavish lifestyle of the aristocracy is a highlight.
Fact: The film's production was so extensive that it required the construction of a massive set in England, including a full-scale replica of the Jordan College dining hall.


Stardust (2007)
Description: In this enchanting tale, a young man ventures into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star, only to find himself in a world of pirates, witches, and royal intrigue. The film's portrayal of the lavish lifestyle of the royal family and the magical market of Stormhold is a feast for the eyes.
Fact: The film's production designer, Gavin Bocquet, previously worked on the Star Wars prequels, bringing a touch of that epic scale to Stardust.


The Sorcerer's Apprentice (2010)
Description: This modern take on the classic tale features a young apprentice learning magic in a world of modern-day New York, with a touch of ancient sorcery. The film's depiction of magical artifacts and the lavish lair of the sorcerer Balthazar Blake adds to its allure.
Fact: The film includes a cameo by Nicolas Cage, who plays a sorcerer in a previous life, adding a layer of historical luxury to the story.


The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
Description: In this chapter of Middle-earth, Bilbo Baggins and his companions encounter the lavish and gold-laden lair of the dragon Smaug. The film's depiction of the Lonely Mountain and its treasure is a testament to the allure of wealth in fantasy.
Fact: The film features one of the most expensive CGI characters ever created, with Smaug's design and animation costing millions.


The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
Description: This visually stunning film brings to life the magical realms of E.T.A. Hoffmann's story, with each realm more luxurious than the last. The film's sets and costumes are a testament to the opulence of fantasy.
Fact: The film's production designer, Guy Hendrix Dyas, previously worked on Inception, bringing a similar level of detail and imagination to this project.


The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Description: Joel Schumacher's adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical showcases the grandeur of the Paris Opera House, with its opulent sets and costumes. The film's lavish production design captures the essence of luxury in a fantastical setting.
Fact: The chandelier crash scene was filmed in one take, requiring meticulous planning and execution.


The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
Description: Terry Gilliam's visually stunning film takes us on a journey through the mind of a centuries-old showman, where imagination becomes reality. The film's sets and costumes are a testament to the opulence of fantasy, with each world more lavish than the last.
Fact: Following Heath Ledger's untimely death, his role was completed by Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell, each portraying a different version of his character.
