Step into the enchanting world where fantasy meets the stage. This curated list of films offers a unique blend of magic, drama, and the theatrical arts. Whether you're a fan of fantasy or have a passion for the theatre, these films will transport you to realms where the line between reality and illusion blurs, providing a captivating experience that celebrates the wonder of both genres.

The Last Unicorn (1982)
Description: While not explicitly about theatre, this animated film has a theatrical quality in its storytelling and the way it brings fantasy to life, much like a stage production.
Fact: The film features voice acting by Mia Farrow, Jeff Bridges, and Alan Arkin.


The Witches of Eastwick (1987)
Description: While not directly about theatre, this film features a group of women who inadvertently summon a devilish figure who brings their wildest fantasies to life, often in a theatrical manner.
Fact: Jack Nicholson's character was inspired by the Faust legend.


The Illusionist (2006)
Description: Set in Vienna at the turn of the 20th century, this film tells the story of a magician who uses his skills to win back his childhood love, with elements of fantasy woven into the narrative.
Fact: The film was shot in Prague, which doubled for Vienna, due to its similar architecture.


The Prestige (2006)
Description: While not strictly fantasy, this film delves into the world of stage magic and illusion, with a narrative that explores the lengths to which two rival magicians will go to outdo each other.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events involving Nikola Tesla and his experiments with electricity.


The Greatest Showman (2017)
Description: Although based on the life of P.T. Barnum, this musical film incorporates fantastical elements in its portrayal of circus life and the creation of the "Greatest Show on Earth."
Fact: The film's soundtrack became a massive hit, with several songs topping the charts.


The Nutcracker and the Four Realms (2018)
Description: This film takes the classic ballet and expands it into a full fantasy adventure, with a young girl discovering a magical world behind the scenes of a theatre.
Fact: The film features a mix of live-action and CGI to bring the fantastical elements to life.


The Phantom of the Opera (2004)
Description: This adaptation of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical brings the gothic tale of a mysterious figure haunting the Paris Opera House to life, blending romance, music, and fantasy.
Fact: The film's sets were built to be as accurate as possible to the original Paris Opera House.


The Magic Flute (2006)
Description: This adaptation of Mozart's opera adds a fantasy twist, following a young man's journey through a magical world, guided by the music of the opera.
Fact: The film was shot in English, despite being based on a German opera.


The Secret of Kells (2009)
Description: This animated film, while not about theatre, captures the essence of storytelling and the magic of art, akin to the theatrical experience, with its focus on the creation of the Book of Kells.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.


The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (2009)
Description: This film follows a travelling theatre troupe led by the immortal Doctor Parnassus, who offers audience members a chance to enter a magical world. The film's unique blend of fantasy and theatre makes it a perfect fit for this list.
Fact: Heath Ledger's last role was in this film, and after his untimely death, his role was completed by Johnny Depp, Jude Law, and Colin Farrell.
