Fantasy Films with Bicycles: A Magical Ride

Description: While not explicitly about bicycles, the film's journey along the Yellow Brick Road can be seen as a metaphor for a bike ride through a fantastical landscape, with Dorothy and her friends embarking on an adventure to find the Wizard.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use Technicolor, which added to its magical, otherworldly feel.

Description: Perhaps the most iconic film where a bicycle takes flight, E.T. uses a bike to escape from government agents, leading to one of the most memorable scenes in cinema history. The film blends science fiction with fantasy elements, making it a perfect fit for this list.

Fact: The famous "flying bike" scene was achieved with a combination of practical effects and early CGI, with the child actor riding a bike on a crane.

Description: This animated film involves a quest through a fantastical world, where the idea of a journey can be likened to the freedom of a bike ride through unknown lands.

Fact: The film was Don Bluth's first feature after leaving Disney, showcasing his unique animation style.

Description: Although the main character, Bastian, doesn't ride a bike, the film's theme of escaping into a fantasy world through reading can be paralleled to the freedom of cycling into new adventures.

Fact: The film was based on a German novel by Michael Ende, and the English version was dubbed by actors like Alan Oppenheimer.

Description: While not directly involving bicycles, the film's whimsical nature and the idea of a journey through a fantastical land can be likened to the freedom and adventure of a bike ride.

Fact: The film has a cult following and is often quoted for its memorable lines and scenes.

Description: This film features a fantastical journey where the Baron travels through various imaginative landscapes, which could be seen as a metaphor for a bike ride through different realms of fantasy.

Fact: The film was directed by Terry Gilliam, known for his surreal and fantastical storytelling.

Description: Continuing the theme of escaping into a fantasy world, this sequel involves more fantastical elements and can be seen as a journey akin to a bike ride through magical landscapes.

Fact: The film features a different cast from the original, with Jonathan Brandis taking on the role of Bastian.

Description: Although not featuring bicycles, the film's journey through a mystical world can be compared to the exploration one might undertake on a bike through unknown territories.

Fact: Jim Henson, the creator of the Muppets, co-directed this film, which was entirely performed by puppets.

Description: Although not a fantasy in the traditional sense, this Italian neorealist film has a magical quality in its portrayal of the bond between a man and his bicycle, which is almost a character in itself. The film's narrative of loss and search for a stolen bike resonates with the fantasy theme of quests and journeys.

Fact: The film was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress for being "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant."

Description: This lesser-known animated film involves a princess who embarks on a magical journey, which can be paralleled to the adventure of cycling through enchanted lands.

Fact: The film was produced by the now-defunct Rich Animation Studios, known for its unique animation style.