As a movie enthusiast captivated by the magical allure of alternate worlds, I can’t help but find myself drawn to the rich tapestry of films that fall under the fantasy genre. The chance to escape into realms so distinct from our everyday existence is irresistible, and series like “Harry Potter” and “The Lord of the Rings” have transcended geographical boundaries, captivating audiences worldwide. It’s no wonder that these properties have inspired theme parks, dedicated fan sites, and travelers from around the globe who yearn to immerse themselves in these enchanting universes. However, it’s essential not to overlook other mesmerizing fantasy films that grace our screens. In truth, each streaming service boasts a vast collection of captivating fantasy titles, waiting for discerning viewers like myself to discover and enjoy.
Instead of heading to Netflix or Hulu, Prime Video stands out as an excellent destination for fantasy enthusiasts. This platform offers a wide selection of classic and lesser-known titles in the genre that many might not know are streamable.
1) The Man From Earth
Many people often link fantasy with knights and dragons, but that’s just scratching the surface of this diverse genre. “The Man From Earth” centers around a man who asserts he’s lived for thousands of years, sharing his life story with a circle of friends. They struggle to accept it, leaving them to ponder if the narrative is truth or fiction in the end.
2) Millennium Actress
In the beloved animated Japanese movie titled “Millennium Actress“, we follow a retired actress as she reminisces about her past and her experiences with Ginei film studio. She narrates her tales via an interview, yet the recollections are embellished with fantastical elements. The richness of details in “Millennium Actress” can be quite overwhelming, often requiring multiple viewings to fully grasp its complexity.
3) Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
The Last Wish,” is just as impressive as any other installment in the series. This film compels our feline hero to confront his greatest fear – Death. Given its exceptional animation, it’s definitely worth the trouble of opening the Amazon Prime Video app and pressing play.
4) Masters of the Universe
1987’s “Masters of the Universe” initially received poor reviews upon release, yet it has since garnered a dedicated fanbase, earning it a status as a cult classic. This film, adapted from the well-known Mattel toy line, features Dolph Lundgren portraying He-Man, as he journeys to Earth to confront his adversary, Skeletor. Although “Masters of the Universe” is an ’80s movie with a cheesy charm, its brief runtime prevents it from becoming tiresome while vividly depicting characters from Eternia.
5) The Last Witch Hunter
The Fast & Furious movies are more like imaginary stories, so it’s not shocking that Vin Diesel has worked on such genres. His character from The Last Witch Hunter was originally created for a Dungeons & Dragons game, where he plays Melkor, a witch hunter. He has issues with the Queen of Witches because, centuries ago, she cast an immortality spell on him, which might not be much of a problem for him since a sequel to the movie is being planned.
6) Labyrinth
In this movie titled “Labyrinth,” I find myself cast as the formidable Goblin King, at the zenith of my artistic abilities. In the narrative, I abduct a newborn boy named Toby, following his sister Sarah’s desperate wish for him to vanish. To rescue her brother, Sarah ventures into an enchanting realm and befriends a diverse assortment of creatures, each crafted by the legendary Jim Henson.
7) Highlander
As a cinephile, I’d say before “The Lord of the Rings” captured our hearts with its epic fantasy war on the silver screen, it was “Highlander” that held the crown. This timeless tale delves into the centuries-spanning struggle between immortal combatants, all in pursuit of a mystical Prize. With a reboot on the horizon and Henry Cavill set to star, now is the perfect moment to revisit this classic.
8) Jabberwocky
It’s delightful when a fantasy film maintains a light-hearted approach instead of being overly dramatic. The film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” serves as an excellent illustration, blending humor into the tale of King Arthur. Co-director Terry Gilliam attempted to recreate that magic twice, with “Jabberwocky” being one such attempt. In this movie, Denis, a young man, embarks on a quest to find a dragon. Despite mixed reviews from critics for Gilliam’s first solo directorial effort, it remains rich in hilarious slapstick comedy.
9) Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at the cinematic brilliance that is “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.” With Dick Van Dyke shining brightly in his prime, joined by Sally Ann Howes and Lionel Jeffries, this movie truly packs a punch when it comes to star power. Under the skilled direction of Ken Hughes, we’re taken on an enchanting journey about an inventor who crafts a magical car for his kids, making it clear why “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” remains a timeless classic.
10) Memories (1995)
Amazon Prime Video is currently hosting another remarkable Japanese animated film titled “Memories“, comparable in quality to the critically acclaimed “Millennium Actress“. What sets “Memories” apart is its unique structure, presenting three distinct narratives, each inspired by manga short stories. The initial segment, “Magnetic Rose“, often garners the limelight, but “Cannon Fodder“, too, offers an engaging experience, delving into a family who have only known conflict.
Read More
2025-06-11 22:17