This curated collection of fantasy films features protagonists who are former military personnel, bringing their skills and experiences into fantastical realms. These stories blend the discipline and tactics of military life with the boundless possibilities of fantasy, offering viewers a unique mix of action, adventure, and magic. This selection is ideal for those who appreciate the depth of character development and the thrill of seeing familiar military themes in an entirely new context.

Conan the Barbarian (1982)
Description: Conan, a former slave and warrior, embarks on a quest for vengeance, utilizing his military training in a fantasy world.
Fact: Arnold Schwarzenegger's breakout role. The film was shot in Spain.


Highlander (1986)
Description: Connor MacLeod, an immortal with a military past, battles other immortals through the ages, blending historical warfare with fantasy elements.
Fact: The film's iconic Queen soundtrack was composed specifically for the movie. It was shot in Scotland and New York.


Dragonheart (1996)
Description: Bowen, a knight, teams up with a dragon to overthrow a corrupt king, using his military background to strategize their battles.
Fact: The film features the voice of Sean Connery as the dragon. It was shot in Slovakia.


The Scorpion King (2002)
Description: Mathayus, an Akkadian warrior, uses his military training to overthrow a tyrannical ruler in a fantasy setting.
Fact: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson's first starring role in a feature film. The film was shot in Arizona and California.


The Chronicles of Riddick (2004)
Description: Riddick, a former mercenary, navigates a universe filled with mystical creatures and interstellar politics, showcasing his military training in survival and combat.
Fact: Vin Diesel not only starred in the film but also helped finance it. The film was shot in Canada, New Zealand, and England.


Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008)
Description: Hellboy, a demon raised by the U.S. military, battles an ancient mechanical army, using his military background to protect humanity.
Fact: The film features creatures designed by the legendary artist Mike Mignola. The movie was shot in Northern Ireland.


Solomon Kane (2009)
Description: Solomon Kane, once a ruthless mercenary, seeks redemption in a world of dark fantasy, using his military skills to fight evil.
Fact: The film is based on the pulp magazine character created by Robert E. Howard. It was shot in the Czech Republic.


The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
Description: Bard the Bowman, a former soldier, plays a crucial role in the battle against Smaug, showcasing his military skills.
Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, using advanced motion capture technology for the dragon Smaug.


The Last Witch Hunter (2015)
Description: Kaulder, a former knight turned witch hunter, uses his military prowess to combat supernatural threats in modern-day New York.
Fact: Vin Diesel also produced this film. The film's visual effects were nominated for a Saturn Award.


The Beastmaster (1982)
Description: Dar, a warrior with the ability to communicate with animals, uses his military training to fight an evil sorcerer.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use CGI for creating creatures. It was shot in California.
