50 Movies About Magic That Are Worth Your Time

The allure and mystery surrounding seemingly unexplainable acts have captivated our imaginations as long as there have been stories to tell. Whether used for good or evil, the concept has contributed to an endless amount of folklore and myth, as cautionary tales became a common medium to tell stories of magic with a deeper meaning. The fairy tales of old are the films of today, with many of the greatest cinema depictions of magic drawing inspiration from age-old stories.

Some of the films we'll be looking at incorporate magic in a literal sense, such as powers beyond human explanation. These tales lend themselves to some of the most imaginative and thrilling adventures – as well as some of the most terrifying horror stories. Others will focus on the more realistic side to magic. The real-life deception skills needed to create a convincing illusion can be extremely lucrative, whether they're used for good or evil. Whatever your interests may be, we'll likely have at least a few picks that'll work for you down below.

The first entry in a three-part film series, "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is an adaptation of author CS Lewis's novel of the same title. Set against the backdrop of the London Blitz, four children flee to the rural countryside to escape a brutal bombing campaign. While there, they discover a mysterious portal inside a wardrobe to the land of Narnia, a realm full of idyllic scenery and fantastical creatures. Ironically though, the children soon discover that the world of Narnia is plagued with warfare, very much like their own. They find themselves unwilling participants in the conflict, with their ascension to the throne being the prophesied road to peace for all of Narnia. While still a children's film at heart, "The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe" is not as sanitized as some common fantasy films in the genre, with the ever-present threat of war looming over the characters throughout the film.

When looking at German Director Wolfgang Petersen's filmography, this 1984 classic may look out of place. Known for telling frantic, high-stakes films, a joyous fantasy romp with dragons and other creatures seems a far cry from his usual gritty realism. Under the surface, however, "The Neverending Story” manages to be a surprisingly grim fairy tale.

The narrative is delivered through the pages of a storybook, with the perspective periodically switching between the real world of the boy reading it and fantasy. Our protagonist finds himself in the world of Fantasia, a crumbling empire on the brink of destruction. A withering force only known as "the nothing" threatens to entirely decimate Fantasia, spurring the hero within the story, Atreyu, to go on a quest to save the realm. Along the way he is constantly faced with insurmountable perils, all while being pursued by the nothing, decaying the world around him as he flees. 

Combining the genres of mystery, science fiction, and classic heist films all into one, many fans can agree that the 2013 thriller "Now You See Me" is a fun story of high-stakes trickery. Actors Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Mark Ruffalo, and Morgan Freeman fill out the star-studded cast, playing the roles of four magicians whose deception skills help them double as highly skilled thieves. Known as the Four Horsemen, they repeatedly pull off daring and inventive heists with their audiences receiving the spoils. The film was popular enough with audiences to earn itself a sequel in 2016, with a third film on the way. With enough twists and turns to keep audiences invested till the closing shots, it's not hard to see why.

Directed by Christopher Nolan, this 2006 film takes place in 19th century London, with two magicians played by Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale locked in a battle of one-upmanship. Their rivalry progresses into a gripping crescendo of destruction that repeatedly jeopardizes the lives of themselves and those around them.

The dramatic story gives a look behind the scenes of old-fashioned showmanship and mystique, with some of the uglier details and consequences being on full display. The film's setting also lends itself to a special period of time, with the modernization of technology at odds with the old world concepts of magic.

Devoid of the charm and optimism that many films associate with the theme of magic, "The Witch" presents a disturbing and eerie imagining of the concept. While the widespread fear of witches in the 17th century has since been understood as entirely unfounded, this 2015 horror film is unambiguous in its approach.

A rural New England farm owned by a Puritan family is beset with a series of tragedies, from child abduction to animal mutilation. The nightmarish events only descend further and further into chaos, pitting the family members against one another as their paranoia consumes them. The reality of the paranormal nature of the being tormenting the family, however, is unmistakable – as is the confusion surrounding the witch's next move.

Likely needing no introduction, "The Wizard of Oz" has become one of the most iconic films of all time since its release over 80 years ago, transcending the genre of fantasy into a ubiquitous cinema classic. While the film is an adaptation of author Frank Baum's children's novel "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz," it portrays the fictional world of Oz in a much more palatable way. The cast of characters has nonetheless permeated pop culture with a slew of parodies and homages in the decades since, with everything from Dorothy's red slippers to her traveling companions becoming instantly recognizable even amongst those who have never seen the film. Whether you grew up watching it or never got around to seeing this classic, it's always worth putting it on for a lighthearted and magical look into Baum's imaginative world.

Created by the renowned puppeteer Jim Henson, his 1982 film "Dark Crystal" would take a much more traditional fantasy-themed approach than his previous work on "The Muppet Show." The extensive use of practical effects and puppetry on screen is commendable, crafting an elaborate world that feels wholly distinct from anything else before or since.

Set in the far-flung world of Thra, an ongoing conflict between the race of Gelflings and Skeksis has been raging ever since a magical crystal was shattered. The Skeksis have found a way to harness the crystal's powers for evil, stealing the life of innocents to prolong their own. It's revealed that a young Gelfling named Jen is prophesied to repair the crystal and free his people from the Skeksis oppression. Along the way, he meets another of his kind named Kira, as the two journey together to fulfill the prophecy while learning more about the years of conflict that have passed.

The unique setting and truly memorable soundtrack present in Disney's "Aladdin” would be enough for any other film to stand on its own merits. When combined with the hilarious performance by Robin Williams as the unconventional fairy tale's genie, it elevates the film to one of Disney's all-time greats.

After the impoverished Aladdin is smitten with the royal princess, he is tasked by the evil vizier, Jafar, to recover a magical lantern hidden deep within a treacherous cave. Aladdin soon meets the genie entombed within the lamp, whose offer of three wishes allows Aladdin to either set him free, or use them all for personal gain. Full of heart, musical numbers, and classic Disney magic, "Aladdin" has earned its place amongst the other Disney classics.

A tragic story of poverty, street crime, and science fiction all combine in this gripping 2016 drama. Depicting the practice of magic, as well as the unforgiving nature of organized crime in an unapologetically gritty style, "Sleight" is a noteworthy pick.

Set in present day Los Angeles, street magician and engineering whiz Bo Wolfe finds himself the sole provider for his little sister after his parents' tragic death. When his signature move as a street performer fails to make ends meet, he turns to start selling drugs with disastrous consequences. To try to set things right again and escape the destructive cycle he's caught in, he's forced to rely on his quick wit and supposed magical abilities.

Clive Barker, the creative mind behind both the "Hellraiser" and "Candyman" film series is a master of cult horror favorites. While his 1995 film "Lord of Illusions" may not have left quite the same cultural impact as his other films, its genre-blending of dark magic and disturbing cults makes it worth checking out.

After the character of William Nix, an enigmatic yet driven cult leader, is shot and killed, neither the lives he affected nor his own spirit is fully put to rest. Played by actor Scott Bakula, private detective Harry D'Amour uncovers a series of unraveling secrets, as well as grisly deaths in Nix's wake. Many of the grotesque visuals that are synonymous with Clive Barker's work are present here, as are the themes of the occult and black magic.

The great number of films that have spawned from Frank Baum's Oz series serve as a lasting testament to the creative genius of his work. Directed by Sam Raimi and starring James Franco as magician and trickster Oscar Diggs, "Oz the Great and Powerful" is a prequel to the 1939 classic "The Wizard of Oz." After Oscar is magically transported to the land of Oz through a tornado, he finds himself caught up in a conflict between witches and a recently murdered king. Much of the same magic that has been seen throughout the stories of Oz are present here, with a refreshing plot that deepens the lore of the series.

Despite this 1959 classic being recognized as one of the most popular animated films produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, fans might be surprised to find out that audiences were less enthralled by this one back when it was released.

Adapted from a now over three-century old fairy tale of the same name, "Sleeping Beauty" has become a classic love story over the years. When Princess Aurora is plagued with a magical curse that causes her to succumb to a deep sleep, only her one true love has the power to save her. While the story sounds decidedly cliché by modern standards, it's important to remember that many of the Disney classics of yesterday helped influence the modern fantasy genre of today.

"Harry Potter" author J.K. Rowling and director David Yates returned to collaborate on this prequel film set in the same universe. Set some 70 years before the events of the first "Harry Potter" film, "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" deepens the lore of the magical world it's set in while not alienating new viewers to the film series.

Shortly after Newt Scamander, a wizard with a specialty for taming magical beasts, arrives in 1920's New York, he has several creatures escape his control. Newt finds himself at odds with the less than magical city and its inhabitants, whose help he's forced to enlist if he wants to safely recover the creatures. A deeper conspiracy is gradually revealed, with a larger conflict developing between the world of wizards and our own.

Director Ralph Bakshi's filmography is controversial to say the least. His 1972 release "Fritz the Cat" became the first animated American movie to receive an X rating, which was proudly promoted on the film's marketing. Whether the majority of his films aimed to convey a deeper message, or simply to shock as many viewers as possible with their uncomfortable themes is still up for debate.

A departure from Bakshi's more contentious films, his 1977 film "Wizards" is a strange fusion of classical fantasy lore and futuristic science fiction tech. Set two million years after a nuclear apocalypse has ravaged the planet, your typical cast of goblins, wizards, and other fantasy creatures have repopulated the earth. Despite its PG rating, however, "Wizards" is still very much a Bakshi film with many adult themes, albeit less prominent than his other works. Whether you're interested in the unique styling of classic American animation, or appreciate when magic and sci-fi are combined, "Wizards" is worth checking out.

Many of the films on our list incorporate the idea of a separate fantasy world which the characters only find themselves able to access through some kind of portal. Whether it be the wardrobe to Narnia or Dorothy's red slippers taking her home, there is always a clear distinction between the two worlds. The 2007 film "Stardust" however is an exception, with the fantasy kingdom of Stormhold very literally bordering our own nations.

Set in mid 19th century England, a young man named Tristan pursues a fallen star that will allow its owner to ascend to the throne of Stormhold. Along the way, he uncovers secrets about his own past, as well as the true identity of the star itself, all while competing against a group of witches intent on stealing it from him. Full of humor, romance, and mystery, "Stardust" is definitely an underrated pick.

A classic battle between the forces of good and evil is at the forefront of this 2010 fantasy adventure. Starring Nicholas Cage as the ancient sorcerer Balthazar Blake, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" doesn't take its material too seriously, keeping its lighthearted and comedic tone the top priority. Set in present-day New York City, the long-awaited descendant of the great wizard Merlin has finally been found. Balthazar must seek him out, and enlist his help to finally end a centuries-old conflict. While there are no heady themes or deep worldbuilding in this one, "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" achieves its goal of telling an enjoyable and at times undeniably campy story full of magicians and wizardry.

Before he would make his appearance as the Joker in "Batman," actor Jack Nicholson played the character of Daryle Van Horn, a mysterious and seductive figure not unlike the Devil in the dark comedy "The Witches of Eastwick." His performances as an antagonist always resonate with audiences, consistently bringing his characters' manipulative and deranged nature to life.

After a group of three women bond over their issues in life and their shared lack of partners, they soon learn to be careful about what they wish for. Nicholson's character finds his way into their lives, simultaneously dating all three women while isolating them from others. The trio quickly discovers they have become a coven of witches, with Van Horn toying with the women and attempting to manipulate their powers for his own agenda.

Most of the films on this list pertain to the usage of true magic or, at the very least, those who bill themselves as magicians. The 2001 French film "Amélie," however, follows a young woman of the same name who is just as ordinary as her peers, yet is determined to go to extraordinary lengths to improve the lives of those around her.

A Parisian girl with an introverted personality, Amelie's childhood has been beset with tragedy. Despite this, she maintains an optimistic demeanor towards life, allowing her to carry out seemingly endless ways of showing affection to others. While her methods aren't truly credited to any supernatural abilities, her inventive methods and pure intentions allow those she interacts with to feel as though it couldn't have been anything but magic.

One of the oldest picks on our list, the Italian-produced film "Suspiria" still holds up as a nightmarishly disturbing entry into the horror genre some 45 years on. After a transfer student arrives in Germany to attend a renowned school for ballet, it gradually becomes clear there are more nefarious events transpiring behind the scenes. The occult, black magic, and human sacrifice are all at play here, with the film being popular enough with fans to warrant a 2018 remake. Additionally, "Suspiria" breaks from the typical horror color palette of dark and dreary imagery, instead embracing a vibrant array of reds and pinks, leaving viewers with a visual display that is as graphic as it is awe-inspiring.

With Ridley Scott as Director, a young Tom Cruise in the lead role, and a war over the land of unicorns, what's not to love? Departing from his science fiction roots and embarking audiences on something new entirely, Scott's phenomenal world-building and cinematography shine in this 1985 dark fantasy adventure, with a devil look-alike known as the Lord of Darkness attempting to slaughter all the unicorns in the land. Cruise and co-star Mia Sara are the only things standing in his way, going on a journey full of romance and peril to protect the land from falling into perpetual darkness.

Released in 2021, this fantasy horror film is a great gateway into the genre for younger viewers, while still staying engaging enough for older crowds. To his chagrin, Alex Mosher's passion for writing horror stories is shunned by his parents, causing him to store his creative works in secret. After wandering from his apartment one night, Alex finds a very unlikely fan of his writing who just so happens to be an evil witch named Natacha. Alex becomes her prisoner, forced to keep writing or face certain death — all while trying to uncover the mystery of her paranormal apartment as well as the fates of those who came before him.

With a filmography spanning over 50 years, action star and former politician Arnold Schwarzenegger has achieved legendary status in the world of cinema. One of his first lead roles would be in the 1982 film "Conan the Barbarian." Set in a realm dominated by warlords and evil sorcerers, Conan's family is slaughtered in front of him at a young age. As he grows up, he becomes a great warrior determined to avenge his parents' deaths. this fantasy revenge story has just as much magic and sorcery as it does over the top violence and unbridled sexual content, leaving viewers who can stomach its more adult themes with a memorable experience, to say the least.

Anthony Hopkins plays the character of Charles Withers in this 1978 horror flick directed by the late Richard Attenborough, long before he would produce the classic "Jurassic Park" franchise. Withers, a bumbling and ineffective magician struggles to find an act to save his career. When he introduces a ventriloquist dummy named "Fats," he begins to rebound from failure all while trying to hide the Dummy's disturbing truth from those around him. A mad descent into his own delirium and violent tendencies, "Magic" will leave you questioning what's real and what isn't until the final shots of the film.

When a teenage Sarah Williams angrily wishes for her baby brother to be whisked away by goblins, she probably didn't expect David Bowie, playing the Goblin King Jareth, to fly in through an open window and make her wish a reality. Seeing that Sarah is immediately regretting her earlier demands, he challenges her to complete his convoluted labyrinth, full of creatures both friend and foe if she wants her brother back again.

The film would be one of just several that "Muppets" creator Jim Henson would direct, using his expertise and artistic genius to bring the creatures of the labyrinth to life. In the years since its release, "Labyrinth" has become a cult classic amongst fans of dark magic, Henson's puppetry, and fans of David Bowie's over-the-top personality alike.

Roald Dahl's children's stories always manage to capture the childhood sense of wonder and innocence that most of us lose as adults, while at the same time not feeling sugar-coated. The many film adaptations of his work over the years are largely successful at conveying those feelings on the big screen, with the 1996 adaptation of his novel "Matilda" being a welcome addition to the collection. In addition to Dahl's creativity and heart being on full display, the film's director Danny DeVito helped round out the production, no doubt adding his own somewhat dark comedic flair to the final project.

Matilda is an undeniable bookworm, whose passion for literature frequently finds her at the ridicule of her neglectful family. After she discovers she possesses rudimentary telekinetic powers, she spends her time sharpening them in scenes that feel like a precursor to some of "Harry Potter's" early classroom hijinks. While it may be lacking in more adult-oriented themes, "Matilda" proves the ubiquitous appeal of Dahl's storytelling amongst all ages.