19 movies that feel like a fairytale

Fairytales have a magic way of carrying us into such enchanting worlds where everything seems possible. A heroic quest, a mystical creature, or a transformation are all things found in fairytales that seem to weave together adventure, wonder, and precious life lessons. Many of these fairytales are timeless classics, but new cinema continues to capture audiences by bringing fresh perspectives and imaginative twists to the classic genre. From enchanted kingdoms to mystical realms, the following 19 films evoke the same sense of magic, mystery, and wonder that we find in the best-loved fairytales, each offering a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience.

1. Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)

Guillermo del Toro's Pan's Labyrinth is a film that combines dark fantasy with the grim post-Civil War Spain setting. It is the story of a young girl named Ofelia who stumbles upon a labyrinth and befriends mystical creatures, including the eerie yet mesmerizing Faun. The hauntingly beautiful visuals of the film tell a tale of innocence, courage, and sacrifice. Recent retrospectives have celebrated its skillful ability to balance brutal reality with dreamlike escapism, and it ranks among the most profound modern fairytales

2. Stardust (2007)

Stardust is a fantasy romance drama set in a magical realm beyond a quaint English village. Tristan, a lovesick young man, embarks on a journey to retrieve a fallen star and finds it transformed into a woman. Neil Gaiman's tale comes alive with whimsical humor and breathtaking landscapes, along with outstanding performances that include the language possession of cunning witch Michelle Pfeiffer and flamboyant sky pirate Robert De Niro. Its charm rests in its successful blend of romance, danger, and wit, winning combination to make it the favorite fantasy read for many for years.

3. The Princess Bride (1987)

A quintessential fairytale, The Princess Bride combines romance, adventure, and humor all into one unforgettable package. The eccentric characters in it, from swashbuckling Inigo Montoya to scheming Vizzini, add depth. Decades on, it continues to be a cultural phenomenon in the manner it is celebrated because of its quotes, such as "As you wish!"-speaking dialogues, as well as tender moments. Cast interviews recently unveiled an affection from decades ago that just adds more legacy to it. With its clever narration and wonderful story, The Princess Bride remains the favorite of the new generations of fans.

4. The Shape of Water (2017)

The Shape of Water is a modern-day fairytale by Guillermo del Toro. The film's story revolves around the love story between a mute woman and an aquatic creature of mystery. Oscar-winning, set during the Cold War, this movie is a beautifully told story about acceptance and being human. Sally Hawkins gives an incredible performance by portraying the spirit of a woman who sees beauty in something where others see a monster. The tribute to classic monster movies by del Toro, the use of colors and textures make this film one of the unforgettable cinematic masterpieces.

5. Big Fish (2003)

Tim Burton's Big Fish is a storybook of wonder. It marks the life of Edward Bloom in surreal tales told about giants, witches, and impossible adventures. At its heart, this film has a nearly compressed, deep emotional trajectory between father and son, with it all happening through fantasy elements. The work of visual imagination here is at the height of its power, a world, both magical and grounded. Recent discussions emphasize its timeless message about the power of storytelling and the blurred lines between reality and fiction.

6. The Secret Garden (1993)

This beloved adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's novel brings such magic from a hidden garden. The story is about Mary Lennox, a spoiled and lonely girl who finds a secret garden on her uncle's estate. As she brings life to a neglected garden, she manages to heal the lives of those people around her. The film's rich cinematography as well as wonderful score adds further depth to this story with ideas of growth, healing, and transformation. Now, in every generation, that timeless message the Secret Garden unfolds about nature, emotional rebirth, still works its magic.

7. Coraline (2009)

Coraline, a stop motion animated film combines eerie fantasy elements with dark undertones of fairs. Coming from Neil Gaiman's novel, this film is set to tell a story of young girl who suddenly discovers a hidden magical parallel world that seems quite better than she is living. However, they hide a gruesome secret. Exploring the atmosphere and visuals into the film through curiosity, fear, and having the courage while facing the ultimate consequences of wishful thinking:. Coraline has become a classic, widely acclaimed for its unique storytelling and ability to chill while still captivating audiences of all ages.

8. The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005)

Bring fantasy to life from the magical and beloved novel, C.S. Lewis. Here, four children are transported into Narnia, where they join forces with Aslan-the noble lion in order to fight against the evil White Witch. The film really captures the visual effects and an epic story and feels like a fairy tale come alive. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a great fantasy novel that still captivates audiences through the themes of courage, redemption, and good vs. evil.

9. Alice in Wonderland (2010)

Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland is a fantastic visual reimagining of Lewis Carroll's classic tale. Alice, now a teenager, returns to the whimsical world of Wonderland and sets out on a quest to defeat the Red Queen. As always, the movie is full of surreal style, eccentric characters, and vibrant visuals that feel like exactly what a fairytale should be: truly magical. Critics have loved the film, which has made the original tale darker and more adventurous while also retaining the whimsical charm that has made it timeless for generations.

10. The NeverEnding Story (1984)

The NeverEnding Story is an adventure that looks so spectacular and so fantasious, blending a reality with the magic of the imagination. This movie shows how a little boy, Bastian, goes into a magical book and follows a young lad named Atreyu, who tries to save Fantasia from an evil force. Filled with mystical beings and warming themes of courage and hope, this movie feels like a fairytale never to end. Beautiful imagery and memorable sounds, this classic continues to entertain while bringing attention to the fact that imagination matters and that the story connects one with his own human spirit.

11. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)

Directed by Hayao Miyazaki, Howl's Moving Castle is a beautiful fairytale in a magical, war-torn world. The story is about Sophie, who was turned into an old woman by a witch and how she, with the wizard Howl, moves around in his magical, moving castle and discovers love and courage. Breathtaking animation by Miyazaki brings this signature blend of whimsy and deep emotional themes, creating a fairytale full of magic, transformation, and personal growth, all of which make the movie about war and self-empowerment continue to resonate with people of all ages.

12. Cinderella (2015)

This live-action Disney adaptation of Cinderella, directed by Kenneth Branagh, is an adaptation that not only brings to the screen with beauty and freshness the old story of kindness, courage, and magic but also brings to life what Cinderella is as a character in the movie. The film focuses on internal strength instead of external beauty and portrays elements of resilience as well as elegance with a victor's courag in one's soul over a failure in beauty merely on the surface.

13. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya (2013)

Directed by Isao Takahata, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya is a visually distinct and emotionally charged adaptation of a Japanese folktale. A mysterious girl emerges from a stalk of bamboo. She is seen to grow from a girl to a beautiful princess. Watercolour-like animation along with hand-drawn art create a dreamy, fairytale atmosphere of the film. This story revolves around beauty, transience, and the clash of nature and culture. It has remained one of the most prominent films of Studio Ghibli to date-one that is poetic and visually memorable.

14. The Brothers Grimm (2005)

Terry Gilliam's The Brothers Grimm is a fantasy take on the lives of folklore collectors Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm. Both Matt Damon and Heath Ledger play brothers who confront an actual enchantment forest filled with witches, curses, and magical fairies. Dark yet wonderfully whimsical, the film layers comedy, adventure, and horror to create something of a fresh, unpredictable take on a fairytale. Despite its fantastical premise, the visual effects and complex set designs bring a level of reality to the story.

15. Enchanted (2007)

Disney's Enchanted masterfully combines live-action romantic comedy with animated fairytales, creating a frothy satire that plays off a classic Disney princess story. In the role of Giselle, the would-be princess transported to modern New York City by accident, Amy Adams is irresistible. The very playful self-awareness of this film, blended with catchy ditties by Alan Menken, makes for irresistibly charming film fare. It's rounded off by James Marsden and Patrick Dempsey, funny and full-hearted. Enchanted really explores themes of love and identity and bridges fantasy and reality in an inventive way.

16. Ella Enchanted (2004)

Ella Enchanted is a rather modern, quirky retelling of the classic Cinderella story. Anne Hathaway sparkles as Ella, the young woman with obedience placed upon her, and in this fantasy world, there are ogres, fairies, and elves to deal with. The film has both lighter humor and more profound self-empowerment as Ella tries to take control of her own life. The film's colorful costumes, playful soundtrack, and endearing performances make it a delight to watch. Though it takes creative liberties from the original book, the film's mix of comedy, romance, and adventure will make it an enjoyable fairytale for the magical, feel-good story lover.

17. The Golden Compass (2007)

Based on Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials series, the movie introduces viewers to a fantastical world with daemons that represent human souls, as Lyra Belacqua, portrayed by Dakota Blue Richards, sets out to discover dark secrets involving missing children. Dazzling CGI and a star-studded cast feature the likes of Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig, making the entire experience feel as if the viewer is entering a dark fairytale. Although the film was surrounded by controversy and box office failure, it has been appreciated for its visual splendor and thematic depth over time. It is a very unique cinematic experience for fans of magical, thought-provoking storytelling.

18. Ever After: A Cinderella Story (1998)

This new take on the Cinderella story anchors its fantasy in reality. In 16th-century France, Drew Barrymore plays Danielle, a feisty young woman. Never relying on the usual fairytale necessities, Ever After emphasizes survival instincts, intelligence, and independence. Charm also comes from the chemistry between Barrymore and Dougray Scott, and Angelica Huston exhibits chilling cruelty as the stepmother. This movie redefines the classic tale of Cinderella, with its lush period settings and empowering narrative.

19. Mirror Mirror (2012)

Tarsem Singh's Mirror Mirror is a frothy and sumptuously cinematic retelling of Snow White. Starring Lily Collins as the titular princess and Julia Roberts as the deliciously wicked queen, the movie combines humor, fantasy, and a feminist spin on the old classic. Elaborate costume designs by Eiko Ishioka bring an eye-popping, storybook quality to the film. Its witty dialogues and stress on Snow White's bravery and resourcefulness made it a very refreshing departure from the traditional view. Mirror Mirror delivers a feel-good experience, but with a modern sensibility that offers a new take on this classic story in the context of today's movie-going audience.