5 1990s Fantasy Movies You Forgot Were Awesome

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The 1990s were a strong decade for film overall, but fantasy movies didn’t quite reach the same heights as in other eras. The 80s were known for bold, creative fantasy films, and the 2000s delivered some truly exceptional ones. In contrast, the 90s were a period of experimentation, with Hollywood exploring different approaches to fantasy storytelling. These films often looked and felt different from typical fantasy, but still managed to be engaging and captivating.

Compared to earlier fantasy films, those made in the 1990s moved away from traditional creatures like dragons and elves, focusing instead on diverse forms of magic. They often drew inspiration from fairy tales, or explored themes of religion and the meaning of life and death, using these ideas as the basis for their stories. This fresh approach makes 1990s fantasy films worthy of more recognition, and the five films below are among the most overlooked gems of the decade.

5) Dogma

You probably remember that Dogma is a great movie. It was a critical and commercial success when it came out in 1999. But you might have forgotten – or never known – that it’s actually a fantasy film! Written and directed by Kevin Smith (who also plays Silent Bob – it’s part of his View Askewniverse!), Dogma centers on two fallen angels, Bartleby (Ben Affleck) and Loki (Matt Damon), exiled to Wisconsin. They discover a loophole: anyone entering a church in New Jersey during its rededication will have their sins forgiven. This could force God to let them back into Heaven, but it would also prove God isn’t perfect and unravel creation. So, Metatron, an angel, sends the last living descendant of Jesus Christ and two prophets to stop them.

This incredibly creative movie blends a thrilling race against time with a satirical take on religion. It features a fantastic cast, including Linda Fiorentino, Salma Hayek, Jason Lee, Chris Rock, and Alan Rickman. While Dogma sparked controversy with its religious themes, it’s a highly entertaining film, and fans have been hoping for a sequel for years.

4) Phenomenon

The 1996 film Phenomenon features John Travolta as George Malley, a simple mechanic whose life dramatically changes after a strange encounter with lights in the sky. He suddenly gains incredible intelligence and abilities, attracting the interest of scientists and the government. Despite the upheaval, George just wants to use his newfound powers to help his community and connect with a woman he loves, Lace (Kyra Sedgwick).

While Phenomenon includes fantastical elements due to the unusual abilities George develops, at its heart, it’s a touching love story. It’s a surprisingly sweet and sad film with a twist that completely shifts how you see everything, making it a hidden gem. It’s a classic, understated romance with just a touch of fantasy, and it never tries to be more than that. Sadly, it’s one of John Travolta’s most overlooked films, which is a shame because it’s a genuinely heartwarming watch.

3) Jumanji

This list includes two films starring Robin Williams, and while both are fantastic, Jumanji is probably the more famous of the two. Based on the children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, Jumanji revolves around a magical board game that brings dangerous jungle elements to life whenever someone plays. In the movie, Williams plays Alan Parrish, a boy who gets stuck inside the game after playing it in 1969, and remains trapped for 26 years.

Let’s be real, Jumanji is a pretty strange movie. While the story isn’t its strongest point, the special effects are amazing. Robin Williams gives a performance that’s both subtle and wildly energetic, and that odd combination is actually what makes the film so great. It really captures the feel of 1990s fantasy adventures. It’s chaotic, imaginative, and doesn’t need typical fantasy elements like dragons or orcs to be enjoyable. With two sequels released recently, the original Jumanji is definitely worth another watch.

2) Dragonheart

No fantasy list is complete without a dragon, and Dragonheart, released in 1996, is a surprisingly overlooked gem. Featuring Dennis Quaid, David Thewlis, and Sean Connery (voicing the dragon Draco), the film tells the story of a dragon in medieval England who shares half his heart with a prince, hoping to inspire him to become a just and compassionate ruler. However, when the king becomes a tyrant, Draco and his friend, Sir Bown (Quaid), team up to take him down.

What makes Dragonheart enjoyable is that it flips the typical fantasy story on its head. Instead of a dragon being the villain, it’s the hero trying to do the right thing. Plus, it features Sean Connery – the former James Bond – voicing the dragon! It’s a genuinely entertaining combination, and while it’s not a cinematic masterpiece, it’s a delightful film. The visual effects were also remarkably good for their time, even earning an Academy Award nomination.

1) What Dreams May Come

Robin Williams shines in this often-overlooked 1998 film, What Dreams May Come. He plays Chris, a man who tragically loses his children in a car accident, and later dies himself. Initially unaware of his death, he stays behind to watch over his grieving wife and attempt to connect with her. After moving on to heaven, he discovers his wife has taken her own life, prompting him to bravely journey to hell to rescue her.

Okay, let me tell you about What Dreams May Come. Some of its ideas about heaven and hell might feel a little dated or even stir up debate now, especially when it comes to different beliefs. But honestly, at its heart, this movie is about a love so powerful that it knows no bounds, even death. It’s about wanting to rescue the person you love from any pain, anywhere. Robin Williams delivers one of his best performances, and it’s a truly moving film that I think everyone should experience.

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2026-01-23 21:12