Unrequited love is a theme that resonates deeply with many, and when it's woven into the fabric of fantasy, it creates a tapestry of longing, magic, and often, bittersweet endings. This curated list of 10 fantasy films delves into the heart-wrenching tales of love that could never be, set against backdrops of mythical creatures, enchanted realms, and otherworldly adventures. Whether you're a hopeless romantic or a fan of fantasy, these films offer a unique blend of escapism and emotional depth, making them a must-watch for anyone looking to explore the complexities of love through a fantastical lens.

The Last Unicorn (1982)
Description: The unicorn's quest to find her kind leads her to experience human emotions, including unrequited love, in this beautifully animated fantasy film.
Fact: The film features voices by Mia Farrow, Jeff Bridges, and Alan Arkin, with a memorable score by Jimmy Webb.


The Company of Wolves (1984)
Description: This gothic fantasy film weaves together several fairy tales, with a central narrative of a young girl's unrequited love for a mysterious huntsman, set against a backdrop of werewolves and dark magic.
Fact: The film was inspired by Angela Carter's short story collection, "The Bloody Chamber."


The NeverEnding Story (1984)
Description: While not explicitly about unrequited love, the film's central theme of a boy's journey to save a fantastical world reflects the longing for something unattainable, much like unrequited love.
Fact: The film's iconic theme song was performed by Limahl, and the movie has since become a cult classic.


The Princess Bride (1987)
Description: This timeless tale of true love and adventure features Westley's unyielding quest to rescue his beloved Buttercup, only to find her betrothed to another. The film's blend of romance, humor, and fantasy makes it a standout in this collection.
Fact: The film was adapted from William Goldman's novel, and its famous line, "As you wish," has become synonymous with true love.


A Midsummer Night's Dream (1999)
Description: Shakespeare's classic comedy explores the tangled web of love among four young lovers in an enchanted forest, where fairies and magic potions lead to unrequited affections and hilarious misunderstandings.
Fact: This adaptation features an all-star cast including Michelle Pfeiffer, Kevin Kline, and Stanley Tucci.


Stardust (2007)
Description: A young man's quest to retrieve a fallen star for his unrequited love leads him into a magical realm where he discovers true love in unexpected places.
Fact: The film is based on Neil Gaiman's novel and features a star-studded cast including Robert De Niro and Michelle Pfeiffer.


The Mortal Instruments: City of Bones (2013)
Description: Clary Fray's journey into the world of Shadowhunters is driven by her unrequited love for Jace, which adds layers of complexity to her adventures in this fantasy adaptation.
Fact: The film is based on the first book in Cassandra Clare's "The Mortal Instruments" series.


The Dark Crystal (1982)
Description: This dark fantasy film features a Gelfling's quest to restore balance to his world, with an underlying theme of longing for a lost love that can never be fully realized.
Fact: Jim Henson and Frank Oz created this film using advanced puppetry techniques, making it a groundbreaking achievement in fantasy cinema.


Legend (1985)
Description: In a world where darkness threatens to engulf the light, a young man's love for a princess leads him on a perilous journey, where his feelings remain unreciprocated until the very end.
Fact: The film was directed by Ridley Scott and features a young Tom Cruise in one of his early roles.


The Secret of Kells (2009)
Description: This animated film tells the story of Brendan, whose unrequited love for the forest and its mysteries drives him to create the Book of Kells, a journey filled with magic and wonder.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature and showcases stunning Celtic-inspired animation.
