Top 10 Fantasy Films of the 80s

Description: John Boorman's retelling of the Arthurian legend is both epic in scope and intimate in its portrayal of the knights of the Round Table. Its lush visuals and operatic storytelling make it a standout.

Fact: The film was shot in Ireland, and many of the locations used are now popular tourist spots.

Description: A blend of fantasy and science fiction, 'Krull' follows a young prince on a quest to rescue his bride from an alien fortress. Its unique setting and imaginative creatures make it a memorable film.

Fact: The film's title was inspired by the name of a small town in England, which was chosen randomly from a map.

Description: This film captures the essence of childhood imagination with its story of a boy who discovers a magical book that transports him to the land of Fantasia, where he must save the world from destruction.

Fact: The song "The NeverEnding Story" by Limahl became an international hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries.

Description: While not strictly fantasy, 'Highlander' mixes elements of fantasy with action and immortality, creating a cult classic with its iconic phrase, "There can be only one."

Fact: The film's soundtrack, featuring Queen, became as iconic as the movie itself, with songs like "Princes of the Universe" becoming synonymous with the film.

Description: This film is a fairy tale wrapped in a comedy, with swashbuckling adventure, romance, and a dash of satire. Its enduring appeal lies in its clever script and memorable characters, making it a beloved classic.

Fact: The famous line "Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die" was improvised by Mandy Patinkin.

Description: George Lucas's vision of a fantasy epic, 'Willow' combines magic, adventure, and a quest to save a baby from an evil queen. Its blend of humor and high fantasy makes it a standout film of the era.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a sequel to 'The Hobbit' but evolved into its own story.

Description: A darker, more mature fantasy film, 'Dragonslayer' features groundbreaking special effects for its time, including the creation of a convincing dragon, making it a landmark in fantasy cinema.

Fact: The dragon, Vermithrax Pejorative, was created using a combination of animatronics, puppetry, and stop-motion animation.

Description: Another masterpiece from Jim Henson, 'The Dark Crystal' is a dark fantasy tale told entirely with puppets, creating a world that feels both alien and enchanting.

Fact: The film took over five years to make, with more than 70 puppeteers involved in its production.

Description: Directed by Ridley Scott, 'Legend' is a visually stunning film with its portrayal of a battle between good and evil in a mythical world. Its lush landscapes and the iconic character of Darkness make it a must-watch for fantasy enthusiasts.

Fact: The film was originally shot with a darker, more adult tone, but it was re-edited for a younger audience, resulting in two different versions.

Description: A whimsical journey through a magical maze, 'Labyrinth' is a testament to Jim Henson's genius in puppetry and storytelling. It's a film that blends dark fantasy with musical numbers, making it a unique entry in the 80s fantasy canon.

Fact: David Bowie wrote and performed five songs for the film's soundtrack. The film was initially a box office disappointment but has since become a cult classic.