It’s possible that we think of fantasy movies as a way to escape from our everyday reality. After all, these enticing films transport us to fantastical realms that have never existed, introduce us to mythical creatures and beings, and even occasionally cause us to sit back and think about how we perceive the world around us. What’s not to enjoy about that?

If you’re a fan of fantasy, then it’s likely that most of your favorite films are based on well-known novels. However, a fantasy movie doesn’t have to be based on a book to be worth the watch! If you need some new movies to add to your fantasy list, keep on reading to find out which are the best (without having to make it into bookstores!).

7 The Dark Crystal

In the fantasy film, The Dark Crystal, a Gelfling sets out on a quest to find the missing piece of a magical crystal and bring order back to his civilization in the distant past on another planet.

With this film, Jim Henson wanted to return to the dark grimness of the original Brothers Grimm fairy tales. He believed that younger audiences liked the idea of being afraid and that fear was a normal and even positive emotion for them to experience.

6 The Secret of Kells

The Secret of Kells, which was a nominee for the Best Animated Feature, is a fantastical must-watch that doesn’t follow the plot of any book. When a renowned master illuminator shows up bearing an ancient book rich with hidden knowledge and powers, a little lad in a distant medieval outpost under siege from barbarian invasions is enticed to embark on an adventure.

The well-realized tale combines fantasy and reality and captivates the audience. When you watch this one, you’ll have no choice but to want to support Brendan in his search for the ideal ingredients for the Book.

5 Dragonslayer

In the 1982 fantasy Dragonslayer, a King has an agreement with a dragon in which, in exchange for the dragon’s leaving his country alone, he sacrifices virgins to it. A young apprentice wizard is sent to slay the dragon that has been feasting on young women from a neighboring realm. The wizard’s goal is to try to save the next virgin in line—the King’s own daughter—with the help of his eager young student.

Go-motion, a type of stop-motion animation where portions of the model (in this case, the dragon) are mechanical and the movement is computer-programmed, was used for the very first time in this film.

4 Spirited Away

This fantasy/adventure movie, Spirited Away, features 10-year-old Chihiro and her parents stumbling onto a seemingly deserted amusement park.

However, Spirited Away’s capacity to produce interesting multiplicities that change depending on the viewer’s age is what truly distinguishes it as one of the best animated films ever created. Children can identify with Chihiro’s sentiments of isolation and alienation as a result of her father’s relocation to a strange town.

3 Labyrinth

When the Goblin King Jareth grants Sarah’s request to have her little brother Toby taken away, she has thirteen hours to figure through a labyrinth and save him. There are numerous eerie creatures, like goblins and gremlins, in this feature. They all have monstrous characteristics that some people will adore and some will despise.

Simply because there isn’t another film quite like it, Labyrinth of those movies you simply have to see at least once in your life. It’s perfect for fantasy fans who love the 80s (oh, and did we mention David Bowie is in it?).

2 Song of the Sea

Song of the Sea is a gorgeous animated fantasy based on the Irish Selkies legend. The film follows the tale of Saoirse, the last seal-child, and her brother Ben as they go on an epic adventure to save the magical realm and unearth the mysteries of their past. Since his sister, Saoirse, has the ability to transform into a seal, they must set off on a quest to save the spirit realm and set the fairies free.

Celtic mythology, stunning design and animation, and perceptive storytelling that engages young viewers without ever being patronizing are all combined in Song of the Sea to produce a magnificent and satisfying piece of art.

1 Willow

     MGM/UA Distribution Co.

Willow is a high-fantasy journey that centers around a lovable character and his brave new friend trying to return a lost baby princess to her rightful home. Together with Madmartigan, a master swordsman, Willow travels through a war-torn realm of magic and monsters.

Written by George Lucas himself and directed by Ron Howard, Willow wasn’t a major movie office hit, at least not in comparison to the massive hits like Star Wars and Indiana Jones. Still, since its release, the epic fantasy is considered a cult favorite with a devoted fanbase.