25 Best Fairy Tale Movies of All Time
Fairy tales have a way of whisking us into worlds where magic feels real and heroes rise against all odds. These stories, whether animated or live-action, blend wonder, romance, and lessons that linger long after the credits roll.
I’ve gathered 25 fairy tale movies that capture the essence of these timeless tales. From classic animations to bold retellings, each film offers a unique spin, filled with adventure, heart, and a touch of enchantment.
25. The Princess and the Goblin (1991)
Princess Irene finds a magical thread that leads her through a web of danger in her kingdom. Alongside Curdie, a brave miner’s son, she battles goblins plotting to destroy her family’s rule in this charming animated tale.
The film’s hand-drawn style feels warm and nostalgic, with a story rooted in George MacDonald’s classic novel. Its focus on courage and trust makes it a delightful, under-the-radar pick for fairy tale fans.
24. The 10th Kingdom (2000)
Virginia, a New York waitress, tumbles into a fantastical world of nine kingdoms where fairy tale characters roam. Teaming up with her father and a roguish wolf, she faces trolls, witches, and a quest to save the realm.
This miniseries mixes humor, romance, and adventure in a sprawling story. Its clever blend of modern wit and classic fairy tale elements creates a binge-worthy escape for all ages.
23. The Swan Princess (1994)
Cursed to become a swan by day, Princess Odette relies on Prince Derek and her animal allies—a witty frog and a spirited turtle—to break the spell. Their journey is filled with romance and daring battles against an evil sorcerer.
The animation bursts with color, and the songs are catchy and heartfelt. This tale of love and loyalty stands out for its charm and memorable characters.
22. Sleeping Beauty (1959)
Princess Aurora is doomed to sleep forever by the vengeful Maleficent, but three kind fairies and a determined prince fight to save her. This Disney classic weaves a spell of romance and magic.
Its breathtaking visuals, from shimmering castles to Maleficent’s dragon form, are iconic. The simple yet powerful story of good versus evil keeps it a fairy tale treasure.
21. EverAfter (1998)
Danielle, a clever young woman, endures her cruel stepmother’s schemes in a Renaissance-era Cinderella story. Her chance encounter with Prince Henry sparks a romance that defies class and convention.
Drew Barrymore’s spirited performance anchors this grounded retelling. The historical setting and strong-willed heroine add a fresh, empowering twist to the fairy tale.
20. Into the Woods (2014)
A baker and his wife venture into a magical forest to break a witch’s curse, crossing paths with Cinderella, Red Riding Hood, and other fairy tale figures. Their intertwined quests reveal the cost of wishes.
This musical dazzles with sharp songs and a stellar cast, including Meryl Streep. Its blend of humor and darker themes offers a clever, grown-up fairy tale experience.
19. The Adventures of Prince Achmed (1926)
Prince Achmed embarks on a thrilling quest atop a magical horse, facing sorcerers and demons to save a princess. Inspired by Arabian Nights, this silent film is a pioneer of animation.
Its silhouette style is visually stunning, creating a dreamlike world. As one of the earliest animated features, it’s a captivating slice of fairy tale history.
18. Red Riding Hood (2011)
Valerie, caught in a love triangle, faces a werewolf terrorizing her village. This dark, gothic take on Little Red Riding Hood unravels secrets and danger in a moody forest setting.
The film’s atmosphere is thick with suspense, and Amanda Seyfried’s performance adds heart. It’s a thrilling, mature twist for those who like their fairy tales edgy.
17. Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Belle, a book-loving heroine, becomes the prisoner of a cursed beast to save her father. As their bond grows, love transforms them both, breaking the spell that traps him.
Disney’s animated classic blends unforgettable songs with lush visuals. Its emotional depth and iconic romance make it a fairy tale that resonates across generations.
16. The Red Shoes (1948)
Karen, a gifted ballerina, is torn between her passion for dance and her heart’s desires. Enchanted red shoes force her to dance relentlessly in this haunting Hans Christian Andersen adaptation.
The film’s vibrant cinematography and emotional intensity are spellbinding. Its tragic fairy tale core, paired with stunning ballet sequences, leaves a lasting impact.
15. Snow White: A Tale of Terror (1997)
Lilli, a noblewoman, battles her stepmother’s dark magic in a grim retelling of Snow White. Trading dwarfs for rugged miners, this version leans into horror and psychological drama.
Sigourney Weaver’s chilling performance as the queen steals the show. It’s a bold, unsettling take that swaps whimsy for raw intensity.
14. The Company of Wolves (1984)
Rosaleen’s dreams plunge her into a surreal village of wolves and werewolves, guided by her grandmother’s cryptic tales. This Little Red Riding Hood reimagining explores fear, desire, and transformation.
The film’s eerie visuals and bold themes create a haunting experience. Its feminist lens and werewolf lore make it a standout for darker fairy tale fans.
13. Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)
Puss, the swashbuckling cat, hunts a magical star to restore his nine lives, joined by a ragtag crew. A mysterious wolf and themes of mortality add depth to this spirited adventure.
The animation is vibrant, blending humor with heartfelt moments. This spin-off delivers a fresh, thrilling take on fairy tale heroism.
12. Hook (1991)
Peter Pan, now a grown-up lawyer, returns to Neverland to rescue his children from Captain Hook. This journey reignites his inner child and belief in magic.
Robin Williams and Dustin Hoffman shine in Spielberg’s whimsical tale. Its mix of adventure and family heart makes it a nostalgic fairy tale gem.
11. Bartok the Magnificent (1999)
Bartok, a boastful bat, takes on a quest to save a missing czar from the witch Baba Yaga. This animated spin-off is packed with riddles, magic, and quirky humor.
Don Bluth’s direction brings a playful, lighthearted vibe. The simple story and lovable characters make it a fun fairy tale for younger viewers.
10. The NeverEnding Story (1984)
Bastian, a young boy, escapes into a magical book where a warrior, Atreyu, fights to save the land of Fantasia from a creeping nothingness. Their journey is a testament to imagination.
The film’s fantastical creatures and emotional stakes captivate all ages. Its blend of adventure and heart makes it a fairy tale classic.
9. The Princess Bride (1987)
Westley, a farmhand, embarks on a daring quest to rescue his true love, Buttercup, from a scheming prince. This tale weaves romance, swordfights, and giants into a witty adventure.
The film’s charm lies in its humor and quotable lines. Its playful take on fairy tales feels fresh and endlessly rewatchable.
8. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937)
Snow White flees her jealous stepmother’s wrath, finding refuge with seven dwarfs. A poisoned apple and a prince’s kiss shape this iconic fairy tale.
Disney’s first animated feature dazzles with its pioneering animation. Its simple sweetness and timeless charm set the standard for fairy tale films.
7. Stardust (2007)
Tristan ventures into a magical realm to capture a fallen star, Yvaine, for his crush. Their journey sparks romance and battles with witches and sky pirates.
This adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s novel blends humor, heart, and adventure. The starry cast and whimsical world make it a fairy tale gem.
6. The Little Mermaid (1989)
Ariel, a curious mermaid, trades her voice for legs to pursue a human prince, Eric. Defying her father and a sea witch, she chases love and freedom.
Disney’s vibrant animation and unforgettable songs like ‘Under the Sea’ shine. Ariel’s bold spirit makes this a magical, enduring tale.
5. Legend (1985)
Jack, a forest-dweller, fights to save Princess Lili and a unicorn from the evil Lord of Darkness. This dark fantasy unfolds in a lush, mythical world.
The film’s stunning visuals and Tim Curry’s chilling performance stand out. Its blend of romance and danger creates a gripping fairy tale.
4. Tangled (2010)
Rapunzel, locked in a tower by a wicked enchantress, dreams of seeing the floating lanterns. A charming thief, Flynn Rider, helps her escape, sparking adventure and romance.
The animation sparkles, and the songs are infectious. Rapunzel’s journey of self-discovery makes this a modern fairy tale favorite.
3. Cinderella (1950)
Cinderella, mistreated by her stepfamily, gets a magical chance to attend a royal ball. With a glass slipper and a fairy godmother, she finds love and freedom.
Disney’s classic glows with charm and iconic moments like the pumpkin coach. Its hopeful spirit and timeless romance keep it magical.
2. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
Ofelia, a young girl in war-torn Spain, escapes into a dark fantasy world guided by a mysterious faun. Her tasks blur the line between fairy tale and grim reality.
Guillermo del Toro’s masterpiece is haunting and beautiful, with stunning visuals. Its mix of magic and tragedy creates a profound fairy tale experience.
1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
Dorothy, swept away to the magical land of Oz, journeys down the yellow brick road with a scarecrow, tin man, and lion to find her way home. She faces a wicked witch and discovers her own strength.
This iconic film blends vibrant Technicolor with unforgettable songs. Its heartfelt story and timeless magic make it the ultimate fairy tale adventure.
Which fairy tale film is your favorite, or did I miss a magical gem? Share your thoughts in the comments!