Top 10 Fantasy Films Set in Manhattan

Description: This classic comedy-horror film features a team of parapsychologists who start a ghost-catching business in Manhattan. The film's blend of humor, special effects, and the city's landmarks like the New York Public Library make it a standout in fantasy cinema.

Fact: The famous Stay Puft Marshmallow Man was inspired by a childhood memory of one of the film's creators. The film's special effects were groundbreaking for the time, earning it an Academy Award nomination.

Description: While not strictly fantasy, this sci-fi comedy involves aliens living incognito in Manhattan. The film's imaginative portrayal of extraterrestrial life amidst the city's everyday hustle makes it a fitting addition to this list.

Fact: The film was based on a comic book by Lowell Cunningham. The neuralyzer, a device used to erase memories, has become iconic in pop culture.

Description: A fairy tale princess from an animated world finds herself in the real-world Manhattan, blending traditional fairy tale elements with modern-day New York City life.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as an animated feature before being transformed into a live-action/animated hybrid. Amy Adams was nominated for a Golden Globe for her role as Giselle.

Description: While primarily known as a superhero film, the Gotham City depicted here is heavily inspired by Manhattan, with its dark, gritty atmosphere and iconic landmarks.

Fact: Heath Ledger posthumously won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the Joker. The film was shot in Chicago, but many scenes were designed to mimic Manhattan.

Description: Although the battle takes place in New York, the film's use of Manhattan as the battleground for superheroes and aliens makes it a fantasy spectacle.

Fact: The film broke numerous box office records upon release. The climactic battle scene was filmed in Cleveland, Ohio, but was meant to represent Manhattan.

Description: This film takes the viewer on a magical journey through Manhattan, where an apprentice sorcerer must stop an evil magician from unleashing dark forces.

Fact: The film's plot was inspired by the segment from Disney's Fantasia. The Tesla coil scene was filmed at the real-life Tesla Coil in the New York Hall of Science.

Description: This Marvel film features magical battles in Manhattan, with the city's architecture becoming part of the mystical narrative.

Fact: The film's visual effects team won an Academy Award for their work. The Sanctum Sanctorum is located at 177A Bleecker Street in Manhattan.

Description: A political thriller with fantasy elements, this film explores the concept of fate and free will as a man discovers a mysterious organization controlling human destiny in Manhattan.

Fact: The film was based on a short story by Philip K. Dick. The hats worn by the agents of the Adjustment Bureau were a deliberate choice to signify their power and control.

Description: Peter Parker's adventures in Manhattan are filled with fantastical elements, from his web-slinging to battles with high-tech villains.

Fact: The film marks the first time Spider-Man was officially integrated into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The Washington Monument scene was filmed on location in Washington, D.C.

Description: While not strictly fantasy, the film's portrayal of a magical, almost fairy-tale-like office environment in Manhattan gives it a whimsical, fantastical feel.

Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life program at a tech company. Robert De Niro's character, Ben, was based on a real intern at a tech startup.