Top 10 Fantasy Films About Wizards and Magicians

Description: This beloved film includes a wizard-like character, Miracle Max, who brings a character back to life. It's a fairy tale adventure with elements of magic, romance, and humor.

Fact: Billy Crystal, who played Miracle Max, improvised many of his lines, adding to the character's charm and humor.

Description: This film follows a farmer named Willow Ufgood, who is chosen to protect a special baby from an evil queen. With the help of a reluctant swordsman, he embarks on a magical quest filled with wizards, sorcerers, and mythical creatures.

Fact: George Lucas wrote the story, and it was originally intended to be a fantasy film for children, but it evolved into a more epic adventure.

Description: Based on Roald Dahl's book, this film features a young boy and his grandmother battling a coven of witches with a sinister plan. It's a dark, whimsical tale of magic and mischief.

Fact: Anjelica Huston, who played the Grand High Witch, spent over five hours in makeup each day to transform into her character.

Description: While not solely about wizards, Gandalf the Grey is a pivotal character, guiding the fellowship on their quest to destroy the One Ring. His wisdom, magic, and transformation into Gandalf the White are central to the story.

Fact: Ian McKellen, who played Gandalf, learned to ride a horse for the role, despite being terrified of them.

Description: This film introduces us to the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where young Harry Potter discovers his true identity as a wizard. It's the perfect entry point into the magical universe, filled with spells, potions, and the iconic Sorting Hat.

Fact: The film's director, Chris Columbus, initially wanted to use real owls for the scenes at the owlery, but they were too noisy, so animatronics were used instead.

Description: While not exclusively about wizards, the White Witch and Aslan's magical abilities are key to the story. It's a tale of adventure, magic, and the battle between good and evil in the fantastical world of Narnia.

Fact: The film was shot in New Zealand, with many scenes filmed in the same locations used for "The Lord of the Rings."

Description: Set in early 20th-century Vienna, this film tells the story of a magician who uses his skills to win back his childhood love. It's a tale of love, deception, and the power of illusion.

Fact: The film was inspired by a short story called "Eisenheim the Illusionist" by Steven Millhauser.

Description: Although not a traditional fantasy, this film explores the world of magic through the rivalry between two stage magicians. Their quest for the ultimate trick delves into themes of obsession, sacrifice, and the supernatural.

Fact: The film's title refers to the third act of a magic trick, where the magician reveals the trick's climax.

Description: This modern take on the classic tale from "Fantasia" follows a young man who discovers he's the heir to a powerful sorcerer. It's a fun, action-packed adventure with plenty of magical mishaps.

Fact: The film features a scene where the protagonist animates a broom to clean, directly referencing the original "Sorcerer's Apprentice" segment from Disney's "Fantasia."

Description: Marvel's entry into the world of magic, this film follows Dr. Stephen Strange as he becomes the Sorcerer Supreme, learning to harness mystical arts to protect the Earth from otherworldly threats.

Fact: The film's visual effects team created over 1,400 visual effects shots, including the iconic scene where Strange manipulates time.