7 Most Rewatchable Fantasy Movies of the 1980s

The 1980s dramatically changed fantasy films. Filmmakers started focusing on creating detailed, immersive worlds instead of relying on typical historical settings. Because computer technology wasn’t advanced, they built everything physically – sets, creatures, and effects – which gave these movies a distinct, realistic look. While risky for studios at the time, these films created a uniquely charming style that’s often missing in today’s big-budget blockbusters. Now, they’re considered classics and continue to inspire fantasy stories in television, games, and more.

This list highlights the most enjoyable 1980s movies to watch again and again. Unlike movies considered ‘perfect’ by critics, these films offer comfort, familiarity, or reveal hidden layers with each viewing. Some are simply fun escapes, while others have rich stories and subtle clues that make repeat viewings more rewarding. While many of the best 1980s fantasy films are also highly rewatchable, not all made the list – even some beloved cult favorites like Labyrinth didn’t quite fit.

7) Krull

Released in the 1980s, the movie Krull uniquely combines elements of classic knightly tales with the suspense of science fiction. It tells the story of Prince Colwyn (Ken Marshall) and his journey across a strange world to rescue his bride (Lysette Anthony) from the Black Fortress – a castle that can magically appear anywhere, ruled by a powerful, ancient creature called the Beast. While the story itself is a traditional hero’s quest, Krull is remembered for its distinctive look, especially the Glaive – a five-pointed throwing star that has become iconic in the sci-fi and fantasy genres. James Horner’s dramatic and moving musical score adds emotional depth, and the film’s impressive, large-scale sets feel more real than many computer-generated environments. Fans also enjoy spotting young Liam Neeson and Robbie Coltrane in early roles, who bring a sense of authenticity to this fantastical world.

6) The Beastmaster

Director Don Coscarelli became a fan favorite in the fantasy world with his film, The Beastmaster. It gained huge popularity thanks to constant airings on cable TV in the 1980s. The story follows Dar (Marc Singer), a prince who lost his kingdom and can communicate with animals using his mind – including a mischievous pair of ferrets and a majestic golden eagle. He and his animal companions set out on a mission to get revenge on the evil high priest Maax (Rip Torn), who leads a cult that threatens nearby tribes. The Beastmaster remains enjoyable today because Coscarelli focused on creating a realistic, wild environment. He used practical effects and unique creature designs – particularly for the winged Jun – to build tension and danger. The strong connection between Dar and his animal friends also gives the film a heartfelt center, showing a hero truly defined by his relationship with nature.

5) The Last Unicorn

Created by Rankin/Bass and starring the voices of Mia Farrow and Christopher Lee, The Last Unicorn tells the story of a unicorn who realizes she’s the last one of her kind. This animated film is deeply rewarding to watch again and again, as its script touches on complex ideas like death, regret, and lost innocence – themes that might not be immediately apparent to younger viewers, but reveal new layers with each viewing. The movie’s beautiful animation, inspired by medieval tapestries, creates a rich visual world for a story that cleverly twists traditional fairy tale conventions. Fans also appreciate Christopher Lee’s subtle performance as King Haggard, a villain motivated by sadness and obsession, which is surprisingly complex for an animated film, even today.

4) Willow

Ron Howard’s Willow is still a classic 1980s film, largely thanks to the wonderful connection between its two main heroes. The movie perfectly balances the personality of a hopeful young sorcerer, Willow (Warwick Davis), with the sarcasm of a skilled warrior, Madmartigan (Val Kilmer). Their often-frustrating but funny relationship forms the core of the film’s humor. As they work together to safeguard a special baby from the evil sorceress Bavmorda (Jean Marsh), they turn a typical fantasy quest into a lighthearted and enjoyable adventure. This focus on characters and humor makes the more fantastical creatures – like trolls and two-headed dragons – feel relatable and prevents the story from becoming too dark. And throughout the entire film, James Horner’s incredible music creates a sense of magic and keeps the world of the Nelwyns feeling welcoming and inviting.

3) The NeverEnding Story

Wolfgang Petersen’s film adaptation of The NeverEnding Story is a deeply thoughtful movie, becoming more meaningful with each viewing. It centers on Bastian, a lonely boy who finds a magical book detailing the destruction of the fantastical world of Fantasia by a force called “The Nothing.” As Bastian reads about the young hero Atreyu’s journey, the line between the story and reality blurs, much like the connection between a movie and its audience. This cleverness makes the film incredibly rewatchable, encouraging viewers to notice the hints that show Bastian is starting to shape the story itself. Beyond the plot, the film’s creatures – from the Rock Biter to the luckdragon Falkor – are beautifully designed and evoke a strong emotional response. Though the Swamp of Sadness is a famously difficult scene, The NeverEnding Story ultimately offers a hopeful message about the importance of imagination, which keeps audiences returning to it again and again.

2) Big Trouble in Little China

John Carpenter’s Big Trouble in Little China cleverly flips the typical hero story on its head. The film combines Chinese mythology with the action-packed style of the 1980s, starring Kurt Russell as Jack Burton, a truck driver who thinks he’s the main hero fighting an ancient sorcerer named Lo Pan. What makes the movie so enjoyable – and rewatchable – is the fact that Jack is actually a clumsy sidekick to the much more skilled Wang Chi. This twist becomes clearer and funnier each time you watch, as Jack’s confidence often leads to his own downfall. Carpenter expertly balances genuine supernatural elements with humor, creating a beloved cult classic that rewards viewers who notice how it playfully mocks common movie tropes of the time.

1) The Princess Bride

The Princess Bride is the perfect movie to watch again and again, largely because it’s a story about storytelling. Directed by Rob Reiner and based on William Goldman’s novel, the film uses a clever structure – a grandfather (Peter Falk) reading to his grandson (Fred Savage) – to connect realistic cynicism with genuine romance. This allows the movie to playfully acknowledge and subvert common fantasy tropes while still delivering them flawlessly. Beyond its humor, the film’s lasting appeal comes from its fantastic cast. Every actor, from Cary Elwes as the charming Westley and Robin Wright as the beautiful Buttercup, to the memorable supporting trio of Mandy Patinkin, André the Giant, and Wallace Shawn, makes the most of their screen time. As a result, The Princess Bride uniquely succeeds as both a loving parody and a sincere example of the fantasy genre, providing a comforting and magical experience that holds up with every viewing.

What’s your favorite fantasy movie from the 1980s that you love rewatching? Share your pick in the comments and join the discussion on the ComicBook Forum!

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2026-01-15 17:16