While children’s fantasy movies are usually characterized by their happy endings and light themes, revisiting these projects as an adult can provide new insight into the deeper messages. More often than not, the nostalgic aspects of kids’ movies hit harder for older viewers since these narratives are reminiscent of a time gone by. The ephemeral nature of childhood and the unexpected difficulties of adulthood are brought into sharp perspective through the lens of a story meant to entice and enchant young audiences. Occasionally, Easter eggs meant for adults provide a fun hidden layer of meaning for returning viewers to enjoy.
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These films come from many different eras and niches, with some fantasy movie box office flops developing into cult classics over time, especially with adults rewatching these projects. Understanding the context and setting of these films is a large part of what makes them special for adults, as these parts of the stories can sometimes go over kids’ heads. However, the drive to revisit these movies as an adult starts in childhood, as their impact and emotional power transcends age groups, providing something for all viewers to enjoy.
10 Peter Pan (2003)
Directed by P.J. Hogan
Peter Pan PGFantasyAdventureFamily
Peter Pan (2003) is an adaptation of J.M. Barrie’s classic tale directed by P.J. Hogan. Jeremy Sumpter stars as Peter Pan, who whisks Wendy Darling, played by Rachel Hurd-Wood, and her brothers to the enchanted world of Neverland. Jason Isaacs portrays the dual roles of Mr. Darling and the malevolent Captain Hook. This film showcases the adventures and conflicts in a land where children never grow up.
Director P.J. Hogan Release Date December 25, 2003 Writers J.M. Barrie , P.J. Hogan , Michael Goldenberg Cast Jeremy Sumpter , Jason Isaacs , Olivia Williams , Lynn Redgrave , Rachel Hurd-Wood , Richard Briers , Geoffrey Palmer , Harry Newell Runtime 113 Minutes
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The source material for Peter Pan is already infused with nostalgia and the familiar feeling of longing for one’s childhood. However, even as the 2003 iteration hits all the same beats as the older animated Disney film and the many other adaptations, it’s one of the most fresh takes on the story while still adhering to the central messages. Additionally, first love is a huge part of Peter Pan‘s story. The doomed romance between Peter and Wendy is one that adults can look at with empathy and regret, remembering their first pangs of young love.
The real beauty of
Peter Pan
is how instantly it transports the viewer back into the thick of childhood and the desperate fear of growing up.
The magic of this version of Peter Pan isn’t lost on children, as the vivid colors and fun practical effects make for an immersive experience. However, looking at the cohesive aesthetic with a more discerning eye allows for even more appreciation for the technical aspects of the film. Of course, this is a benefit of revisiting beloved childhood classics, but the real beauty of Peter Pan is how instantly it transports the viewer back into the thick of childhood and the desperate fear of growing up.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Peter Pan (2003) |
77% |
74% |
9 Jumanji (1995)
Directed by Joe Johnston
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9.3/10 Jumanji PGActionAdventureComedy
Jumanji is an action-adventure comedy film by director Joe Johnston and starring Robin Williams. Two orphan siblings move into a home occupied by the former Parrish family, whose son disappeared years ago. When the two start playing a mysterious board game known as “Jumanji,” they unknowingly release the missing Alan Parrish later, along with various other jungle-themed dangers that can only be stopped if they finish the game.
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*Availability in US Director Joe Johnston Release Date December 15, 1995 Studio(s) TriStar Pictures , Interscope Communications Writers Jonathan Hensleigh , Greg Taylor , Jim Strain Cast Robin Williams , Kirsten Dunst , David Alan Grier , Bonnie Hunt , Jonathan Hyde , Bebe Neuwirth Runtime 104 Minutes Franchise(s) Jumanji Expand
The original 1995 Jumanji wouldn’t be nearly as well remembered without the seminal performance by Robin Williams, who plays the grown-up version of Alan. To this day, Jumanji is surprisingly scary and emotionally resonant, as the effects of the game pose a real danger, with the characters’ lives on the line. Witnessing Alan trapped inside Jumanji for decades and forced to survive in isolation is an intense plot device, and the situation’s gravity only becomes clearer as audiences age.
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Related 10 Best Live-Action Children’s Fantasy Movies
Though animated movies are often cited as the best works of the fantasy genre for kids, there are many live-action films that are incredible.
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Alan’s fate is genuinely scary and robs him of his life, an experience with consequences that would terrify anyone, no matter how old they are. While he eventually gets his life back, the parallel universes and diverted timelines are heady and complex subject matter that pushes the boundary of what children might understand. However, this hasn’t stopped Jumanji from continuing on as a beloved franchise. The upcoming Jumanji 4 is confirmed and will continue the story of the spinoff characters, including Dwayne Johnson.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Jumanji (1995) |
52% |
63% |
8 The NeverEnding Story (1984)
Directed by Wolfgang Petersen
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6/10 The Neverending Story PGFantasyFamilyAdventureDrama
Based on the German novel of the same name, The NeverEnding Story centers on Bastian Bux, a young boy who finds a book about a fantasy world called Fantasia, and becomes inexplicably connected to the book’s plot as he begins to read it. Barret Oliver stars as Bastian, with Noah Hathaway, Tami Stronach, and Alan Oppenheimer as part of the main cast.
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*Availability in US Director Wolfgang Petersen Release Date July 20, 1984 Studio(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Writers Herman Weigel , Wolfgang Petersen Cast Patricia Hayes , Noah Hathaway , Barret Oliver , Sydney Bromley , Gerald McRaney , Tami Stronach Runtime 94 minutes Expand
The protagonist of The NeverEnding Story, Bastian, will tug at the heartstrings of anyone who has ever felt out of place in childhood or grappled with big feelings at a young age. As time passes, the connection the viewer feels with Bastian and their empathy for him only grows as The NeverEnding Story grapples directly with grief and loss. Both Bastian, as the reader of the story and the characters within it, experience the death of a loved one and must carry on in the face of even greater threats to the universe.
From the perspective of age, the audience can see how these losses are part of life and that Bastian is able to persevere thanks to his belief in himself and the realization that everyone is creating their own story.
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This comes through in the unforgettable death of the beloved horse, Artax, who perishes in the Swamps of Sadness, a moment few viewers easily recover from. However, from the perspective of age, the audience can see how these losses are part of life and that Bastian is able to persevere thanks to his belief in himself and the realization that everyone is creating their own story. This sense of agency and power over one’s destiny, even as events unfold out of Bastian’s control, is a meaningful message for adults who might relate to Bastian even more.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The NeverEnding Story (1984) |
84% |
81% |
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7 The Sword In The Stone (1963)
Directed by Wolfgang Reitherman, Clyde Geronimi, & David Hand
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10/10 The Sword in the Stone GAnimationComedyFantasyMusical
Disney’s animated classic The Sword in the Stone spins a new take on the tale of King Arthur of Camelot’s origins as a humble squire named Wart who wishes to become the Once and Future King. Though many have tried and failed, Wart, with the help of the all-powerful (but bumbling) magician Merlin, will embark on a quest to pull the sword form the stone and lead his country to a prosperous future.
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*Availability in US Director Wolfgang Reitherman Release Date December 25, 1963 Studio(s) Walt Disney Productions Writers Bill Peet Cast Rickie Sorensen , Karl Swenson , Junius Matthews , Sebastian Cabot , Norman Alden , Martha Wentworth Runtime 79 Minutes Expand
One of the best fantasy movies of the 1960s, The Sword in the Stone, is loosely based on the first part of T.H. White’s seminal novel, The Once and Future King. The film chronicles the less frequently discussed early years of Arthur before he knew his fate as king. This involves Merlin teaching him important lessons that will make him a great leader. Seeing Arthur as a boy and knowing who he will become is very emotionally impactful, even within the musical comedy lens that Disney utilizes.
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While The Sword in the Stone might not capture the attention of younger audiences as much as some of the more classic Disney animated fairy tales, adults can appreciate its style and influence with new eyes. The aesthetics and the more experimental tone of the movie make it stand out against the other Disney offerings of the time, thanks to its darker and more transgressive nature. The characterization of Merlin and his quirky, humorous affectations likely served as inspiration for later great wizards in movies like Dumbledore and Gandalf.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Sword in the Stone (1960) |
66% |
73% |
6 Legend (1985)
Directed by Ridley Scott
Legend PGAdventureFantasyRomance
In a fantastical realm, Jack must save Princess Lili from the clutches of the sinister Lord of Darkness, who plans to bring eternal night by killing the last unicorns. Teaming up with a group of mystical companions, Jack ventures through dark forests and treacherous terrains to stop Darkness and ensure the survival of their magical world.
Director Ridley Scott Release Date April 18, 1986 Studio(s) Universal Pictures , Embassy International Pictures N.V. , Legend Production Company Writers William Hjortsberg Cast Tom Cruise , Mia Sara , Tim Curry , David Bennent , Alice Playten , Billy Barty , Cork Hubbert Runtime 94 Minutes Expand
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It likely wouldn’t mean much to children that Legend features the work of a young Tom Cruise, Tim Curry, and was directed by Ridley Scott. However, these pieces of trivia might be the perfect encouragement to draw adults back to the 1986 Legend or even discover it for the first time. Of all the great fantasy movies of the 1980s, Legend is too often overlooked, which is surprising considering how star-studded the cast is and how Curry creates such a terrifying villain in his work as Darkness.
Though Scott made his name on works of sci-fi,
Legend
proves that he understands how to realize a fantasy world with gorgeous precision, which any adult would appreciate.
However, there’s more to Legend than the actors and performances, even if these are some of the best parts of the movie. The love story between Jack and Lili, the two young protagonists, is so innocent and genuine that it’s almost impossible not to root for these kids to save the world and live happily ever after. Additionally, though Scott made his name on works of sci-fi, Legend proves that he understands how to realize a fantasy world with gorgeous precision, which any adult would appreciate.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Legend (1986) |
41% |
73% |
5 The Secret Of Kells (2009)
Directed by Tomm Moore & Nora Twomey
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8/10 The Secret of Kells Not RatedAnimationAdventureFamilyFantasy
The Secret of Kells is an animated fantasy film that follows the young Brendan, who lives in a remote medieval outpost. This visually stunning tale explores his journey to help complete the magical Book of Kells, encountering mythical creatures and overcoming challenges along the way, blending history and folklore in a captivating narrative.
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*Availability in US Director Tomm Moore , Nora Twomey Release Date December 4, 2009 Writers Fabrice Ziolkowski Cast Evan McGuire , Christen Mooney , Brendan Gleeson , Mick Lally , Liam Hourican , Paul Tylak , Michael McGrath , Paul Young , Nora Twomey Runtime 78 Minutes
Animated movies with a connection to folklore become all the more intriguing to audiences as they grow up, as the source material behind fantasy projects is just as interesting as the films themselves. The creative team behind The Secret of Kells has produced some of the most beautiful and innovative animated features of the past few years, producing both Song of the Sea and Wolfwalkers in the years following The Secret of Kells. All in conversation with Irish folklore and legends, these movies stand out among the traditional fairy tales typically brought to life on screen.
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Not only is The Secret of Kells visually astounding, but the story tackles serious subjects like war, the preservation of knowledge, and struggling to be understood and accepted by one’s family. All of these aspects of the story only grow clearer to older audiences, as do the motivations of both the young protagonist Brendan, and his well-meaning uncle, Abbot Cellach, who only wants to protect his family and home. Though it’s easy to solely root for Brendan as a child, the fear and anxiety that drive Cellach become more obvious with age.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Secret of Kells (2009) |
90% |
85% |
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4 Where The Wild Things Are (2009)
Directed by Spike Jonze
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4/10 Where the Wild Things Are PGFamilyAdventureDrama
In this adaptation of Maurice Sendak’s beloved children’s book, a young boy named Max sails away from home and discovers a wondrous land of creatures known as “Wild Things,” who name Max their new king.
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*Availability in US Director Spike Jonze Release Date October 16, 2009 Studio(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Writers Spike Jonze , Dave Eggers , Maurice Sendak Cast Max Records , Catherine Keener , Mark Ruffalo , Lauren Ambrose , Chris Cooper , James Gandolfini , Catherine O’Hara , Forest Whitaker Runtime 101 minutes Expand
It’s astounding that Spike Jonze was able to mine the short but classic children’s book of the same name by Maurice Sendak and create the vividly realized 2009 Where the Wild Things Are. For viewers who grew up reading the book, the way the Wild Things are designed and brought to life is perfect, balancing the otherworldly aspects of the monsters with the realism of the story. Additionally, Jonze leans into the conflict between Max and his mother, tackling the tough transition to adolescence and how this takes a toll on both parents and children.
Watching
Where the Wild Things Are
as an adult doesn’t simply make the viewer automatically side with Max’s mother.
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However, watching Where the Wild Things Are as an adult doesn’t simply make the viewer automatically side with Max’s mother. On the contrary, the audience is able to see how hurt they both are and how they’re each doing their best with the emotional tools available to them. It’s in the disconnect between their levels of communication that the conflict arises, and this is the real tragedy. Though Where the Wild Things Are received mixed reviews, it’s likely on its way to becoming a cult classic as the years progress.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Where the Wild Things Are (2009) |
73% |
57% |
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3 Spirited Away (2001)
Directed by Hayao Miyazaki
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9.7/10 Spirited Away PGAnimationFamilyFantasy
Spirited Away, a masterpiece by Hayao Miyazaki, is an animated fantasy film that follows the enchanting journey of a young girl named Chihiro. Trapped in a mystical world after her parents are transformed into pigs, Chihiro must navigate a realm filled with spirits and peculiar creatures to save her family.
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*Availability in US Director Hayao Miyazaki Release Date July 20, 2001 Studio(s) Studio Ghibli Writers Hayao Miyazaki Cast Rumi Hiiragi , Miyu Irino , Mari Natsuki , Takashi Naitô , Yasuko Sawaguchi , Tsunehiko Kamijô , Takehiko Ono , Bunta Sugawara Runtime 125 minutes Expand
Spirited Away is arguably the best Studio Ghibli movie ever made and has long been considered simply an amazing fantasy movie, regardless of its intention for children. The director, Hayao Miyazaki, has consistently pushed viewers to engage with complex themes of coming-of-age, pacifism, and the intersection between childhood and living through war in much of his work. Though Spirited Away doesn’t directly address war, it still sees Chihiro’s childhood disrupted through displacement and forces her to navigate an unknown world without the safety of a parental figure.
Related 10 Fantasy Movies That Are Actually Pretty Dark
Though fantasy is typically thought of as an escapist genre, that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of dark & grim moments within these movies.
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As a child, it’s easy to be swept up in the magical and visual spellbinding world of Spirited Away. While this doesn’t fade with time, it’s easier to recognize the grief that Chihiro is feeling long before she’s transported to the spirit world and why she’s able to find herself and her parents by the end of the film. The idea that part of her identity can be taken from her and potentially lost forever is a serious threat and one that will ring true for adults.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Spirited Away (2001) |
96% |
96% |
2 Maleficent (2014)
Directed by Robert Stromberg
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6.5/10 Maleficent PGAdventureFantasy
A live-action reimagining of the fairytale of Sleeping Beauty, Maleficent follows the titular fairy witch (Angelina Jolie) in a dark fantasy origin story. After falling in love with a human, Maleficent is betrayed when he steals her wings. Swearing revenge, she curses his infant daughter, Princess Aurora, leading to a retelling of the beloved fairytale from an alternate perspective.
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*Availability in US Director Robert Stromberg Release Date May 30, 2014 Studio(s) Disney Writers John Lee Hancock , Linda Woolverton Cast Sam Riley , Sharlto Copley , Elle Fanning , Juno Temple , Angelina Jolie , Imelda Staunton Runtime 1h 37m Franchise(s) Maleficent Expand
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Maleficent is one of the more engaging and effective live-action iterations of Disney movies, as it brings a new spin and perspective on the traditional tale of Sleeping Beauty. Angelina Jolie is excellent as the titular fairy who starts the movie perfectly happy to play the villain after all the betrayal and persecution that she’s faced at the hands of humanity. However, Maleficent quickly turns into a tale of motherhood and forgiveness, as Maleficent finds herself loving the young Aurora as a daughter even if she doesn’t want to.
Maleficent
explores how easy it is to misinterpret the intentions of the so-called villain and how it’s often the people in power who get to spin these narratives to make themselves look better.
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While this encourages older viewers to identify with Maleficent, especially if they’re parents, it’s not just her relationship with Aurora that will affect audiences. Maleficent explores how easy it is to misinterpret the intentions of the so-called villain and how it’s often the people in power who get to spin these narratives to make themselves look better. This nuance and the unfairness of Malefient’s situation are not lost on older viewers.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
Maleficent (2014) |
54% |
70% |
1 The Iron Giant (1999)
Directed by Brad Bird
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9.7/10 The Iron Giant PGAction Sci-FiFamilyComedyAnimationDramaAdventure
Set in 1957 Maine against the backdrop of the Cold War, The Iron Giant follows Hogarth Hughes, a young boy who finds an alien robot crashlanded in the woods outside his hometown. Determining that the robot is friendly, Hogarth quickly becomes its protector against forces in the US Army who wish to use the robot for their own means. Eli Marienthal voices Hogarth, with a further cast that includes Vin Diesel, Jennifer Aniston, Harry Connick Jr., and Christopher McDonald.
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*Availability in US Director Brad Bird Release Date August 6, 1999 Studio(s) Warner Bros. Pictures Writers Tim McCanlies Cast Vin Diesel , Christopher McDonald , Harry Connick Jr , Jennifer Aniston , Eli Marienthal Runtime 86 minutes Expand
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The Iron Giant is always discussed in the ranking of the greatest children’s movies of all time. Famous for its heart-wrenching final scene and emotionally resonant message, The Iron Giant is a fantasy film for everyone, regardless of age. Hogarth, the protagonist, is the curious and brave child that every young person dreams of being, but he’s also equally relatable, as he feels out of place in school and life, finding solace with the Giant. Despite being an anthropomorphic robot, the Giant is a complex character that the audience grows to love as much as Hogarth does.
Though the emotion comes through with younger audiences, the gravity of the Giant’s sacrifice and Hogarth’s isolation come through with adults with even more nuance. Set against the paranoia of the Cold War, adults take in this context and are able to empathize with the adults with Hogarth’s life as they attempt to keep him safe, even if it’s in misguided ways. While the relationship between Hogarth and the Giant is the most compelling, as an adult, audiences can see how the other character dynamics work to build the film’s impact.
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Title |
Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score |
Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|
The Iron Giant (1999) |
96% |
90% |