Top 10 Fantasy Films About Trade

Description: This animated film features a world where mythical creatures engage in trade, with scenes of the Red Bull's lair where magical items are bartered and sold.

Fact: The film features the voice talents of Mia Farrow, Alan Arkin, and Jeff Bridges. Also, the soundtrack was composed by Jimmy Webb, known for his work with Glen Campbell.

Description: While not explicitly about trade, the film features a marketplace in Fantasia where characters trade stories, knowledge, and goods, reflecting the value of cultural exchange.

Fact: The film was shot in Germany, and the scenes of Fantasia were created using matte paintings and miniatures. Also, the book that inspired the film was originally published in German.

Description: While not directly about trade, this film includes scenes of bartering and negotiation, like the famous "Iocane powder" scene, showcasing the art of deal-making in a fantasy setting.

Fact: The film's script was adapted from a novel by William Goldman, who also wrote the screenplay. The famous line "Inconceivable!" was improvised by actor Wallace Shawn.

Description: Willow Ufgood's quest involves navigating through a world where trade and barter are essential, from the village markets to the grand castle of Tir Asleen.

Fact: The film was directed by Ron Howard and was George Lucas's attempt to create a fantasy epic. Also, Warwick Davis, who played Willow, was discovered by Lucas during the filming of "Return of the Jedi."

Description: Set in the bustling Agrabah, Aladdin's adventures involve street markets, magic carpets, and the trade of wishes, highlighting the economic and social dynamics of a fantasy marketplace.

Fact: The film's marketplace scenes were inspired by the vibrant markets of Morocco and India. Also, the character of Aladdin was originally conceived as a much darker figure in early drafts.

Description: In Narnia, trade and commerce play a role in the lives of its inhabitants, from the Beavers' dam to the bustling town of Cair Paravel, where goods are exchanged and alliances are formed.

Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, which provided a magical backdrop for Narnia. Also, the White Witch's castle was inspired by the real-life Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany.

Description: In this enchanting tale, a young man ventures into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star, only to find himself entangled in a web of trade and intrigue involving witches, princes, and a market of wonders.

Fact: The film's market scenes were inspired by real-world markets like the Grand Bazaar in Istanbul. Also, the star, Yvaine, was originally supposed to be a CGI character but was changed to a human actress for better emotional connection.

Description: Bilbo Baggins and the Company of Thorin Oakenshield navigate through the treacherous paths of Middle-earth, encountering various forms of trade, from the bustling markets of Lake-town to the dark dealings of the Necromancer.

Fact: The film features a detailed recreation of Lake-town, which was inspired by medieval European trade towns. Also, the character of Bard the Bowman was originally a minor figure in the book but was expanded for the film.

Description: This film features a world where trade is essential for survival, with characters like the Podlings engaging in barter and trade to maintain their way of life amidst the larger conflict.

Fact: The film was created using a combination of animatronics, puppetry, and stop-motion, making it a pioneering work in fantasy cinema. Also, the Gelflings' language was created by linguist David Peterson, who later worked on languages for "Game of Thrones."

Description: Sarah's journey through the Labyrinth involves encounters with creatures who engage in various forms of trade, from the Goblin Market to the Bog of Eternal Stench.

Fact: The film features designs by Brian Froud, who also worked on "The Dark Crystal." Also, David Bowie wrote and performed five songs for the soundtrack, adding a unique musical element to the film.