Fantasy Films That Tackle Corruption

Description: This animated film delves into themes of corruption through King Haggard, whose obsession with possessing beauty and magic leads to the near extinction of unicorns, symbolizing the corrupting nature of greed and desire.

Fact: The film features voice acting by Mia Farrow, Jeff Bridges, and Alan Arkin. It was based on Peter S. Beagle's novel of the same name.

Description: This beloved film touches on corruption through Prince Humperdinck, who uses his power to manipulate and control, showing how corruption can manifest in the guise of nobility and love.

Fact: The film was initially a box office disappointment but has since become a cult classic. The screenplay was adapted by William Goldman from his own novel.

Description: In this George Lucas production, the corrupting influence of power is shown through Queen Bavmorda, who uses dark magic to maintain her rule, highlighting how power can corrupt even those with noble intentions.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a sequel to The Empire Strikes Back, with Willow being a dwarf from the Star Wars universe. The character of Willow was played by Warwick Davis, who also played Wicket the Ewok.

Description: Roald Dahl's dark fantasy explores corruption through the Grand High Witch, whose ambition to turn all children into mice showcases the corrupting nature of unchecked power and hatred.

Fact: Anjelica Huston, who played the Grand High Witch, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance. The film was directed by Nicolas Roeg, known for his surreal and often dark storytelling style.

Description: While not strictly fantasy, this film blends magical realism with the harsh realities of post-Civil War Spain. The corruption of power is depicted through the fascist captain Vidal, whose brutality contrasts with the fantastical elements of the story, highlighting the dark side of human nature.

Fact: The film was shot in English and Spanish, with the English version being dubbed by the original actors. It won three Academy Awards, including Best Cinematography.

Description: In this whimsical tale, the theme of corruption is subtly woven through the character of Lamia, one of the witch-queens, who seeks eternal youth through nefarious means. The film also explores the corrupting influence of power through the various characters vying for control over the fallen star.

Fact: The film features a cameo by Neil Gaiman, the author of the novel on which the film is based. The movie was shot in Scotland, which doubled for the magical kingdom of Stormhold.

Description: The film explores themes of corruption through the Telmarines, who have taken over Narnia and ruled with an iron fist, stripping away the magic and freedom of the land. Prince Caspian's journey is one of reclaiming a kingdom corrupted by power.

Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, the same location used for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. The character of Reepicheep was voiced by Eddie Izzard.

Description: While primarily a tale of magic and adventure, the film subtly explores themes of corruption through the character of Maxim Horvath, who seeks to use ancient magic for personal gain, showcasing the corrupting influence of power.

Fact: The film was inspired by the segment of the same name in Disney's Fantasia. The Tesla coil used in the film was a real, functioning coil, one of the largest in the world.

Description: In this chapter of the epic saga, the theme of corruption is explored through the dragon Smaug, whose greed and lust for treasure have led him to hoard wealth, corrupting the once prosperous kingdom of Erebor. The film delves into how power and wealth can corrupt even the most noble of creatures.

Fact: The voice of Smaug was provided by Benedict Cumberbatch, who also did motion capture for the character. The film was shot at 48 frames per second, giving it an almost hyper-realistic visual quality.

Description: This Jim Henson classic features a world where corruption has taken hold through the Skeksis, a race that has usurped power and now rules with cruelty and greed. The film's narrative revolves around restoring balance to a world corrupted by power.

Fact: The film was one of the first to use animatronics extensively, with over 70 puppeteers involved. It was also one of the first films to use CGI for some of its special effects.