The Best '70s Fantasy Movies, Ranked
Ranked By
2.6K votes
428 voters
4 reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite fantasy films that were released in the 1970s.
1Gene Wilder, Jack Albertson, Peter OstrumIn the musical fantasy film, Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, Charlie Bucket (Peter Ostrum), a poor boy, stumbles upon a golden ticket. This ticket grants him access to the enigmatic chocolate factory of Willy Wonka (Gene Wilder), an eccentric candy maker. Inside this whimsical world, Charlie and four other children embark on a surreal adventure filled with Oompa-Loompas, edible landscapes, and remarkable inventions. However, as they journey deeper into the factory, their character flaws surface in unexpected ways. Directed by Mel Stuart, this 1971 movie is a celebrated adaptation of Roald Dahl's book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.- 2Christopher Reeve, Gene Hackman, Marlon BrandoIn Superman, we meet Clark Kent (Christopher Reeve), a seemingly ordinary journalist. Raised by his loving adoptive parents in Smallville, Kansas, after being sent to Earth from the dying planet Krypton, he is anything but ordinary. When his otherworldly powers emerge, he transforms into Superman, the Man of Steel and defender of truth, justice and the American way. His nemesis? Lex Luthor (Gene Hackman), a criminal genius with a plan that could spell doom for mankind. This thrilling adventure film swept up three Academy Award nominations, a testament to its cinematic prowess.More Superman
- Dig Deeper...Bizarre Facts Most People Don't Know About Christopher Reeve's 'Superman'
- #32 of 186 onThe Greatest Comic Book Movies Of All Time
- #80 of 178 onThe Best Alien Movies Of All Time, Ranked
3Angela Lansbury, David Tomlinson, Roddy McDowallIn the whimsical world of Bedknobs and Broomsticks, Miss Eglantine Price (Angela Lansbury), a novice witch, stumbles upon three orphaned siblings during World War II. They embark on a magical journey on her enchanted bed to find a powerful spell that could end the war. Alongside them is the bumbling con-artist Professor Emelius Browne (David Tomlinson). The movie, a blend of live-action and animation, earned an Academy Award for Visual Effects in 1972. It's a captivating, family-friendly adventure filled with enchantment and unexpected twists.- #176 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #83 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #115 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
4Christopher Guard, William Squire, Michael ScholesEmbarking on an epic journey, Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood), a humble hobbit, finds himself holding the fate of Middle Earth in his hands. Entrusted with a ring of immense power, he's tasked to destroy it in the fires of Mount Doom. Supported by the wise Gandalf (Ian McKellen) and joined by a diverse fellowship, they face treacherous landscapes and malevolent foes. Directed by Peter Jackson, The Lord of the Rings is a fantasy adventure trilogy that earned 17 Academy Awards from 30 nominations. It's a timeless tale of friendship, courage, and the struggle against overwhelming darkness.- #123 of 375 onThe Best Movies Based On Books
- #33 of 308 onThe 300+ Best Epic Movies Of All Time
- #7 of 50 onThe Best Movies With Elves
5Debbie Reynolds, Paul Lynde, Henry GibsonIn the heartwarming film Charlotte's Web, young Fern Arable (Dakota Fanning) rescues a runt piglet, Wilbur, from an untimely death. Life on the Zuckerman farm unfurls in bucolic bliss until Wilbur (voiced by Dominic Scott Kay), now grown, learns of his destined fate as dinner. Enter Charlotte A. Cavatica (voiced by Julia Roberts), the wise and gentle spider who devises a plan to save him. This family-friendly tale weaves themes of friendship, sacrifice and miracles into its narrative fabric. The movie won the Broadcast Film Critics Association Award for Best Family Film in 2006.More Charlotte's Web- #62 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #89 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #62 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
6Phil Harris, Eva Gabor, Sterling HollowayIn the animated Disney classic, The Aristocats, Duchess (Eva Gabor) and her three kittens, Marie (Liz English), Berlioz (Dean Clark), and Toulouse (Gary Dubin), live a life of luxury in Paris with their wealthy owner. The family's idyllic existence is disrupted when they're catnapped by the greedy butler, Edgar (Roddy Maude-Roxby), who has his eyes on the family fortune. Stranded in the countryside, they meet alley cat Thomas O'Malley (Phil Harris). With his help, they embark on an adventurous journey home, encountering a jazz band of alley cats and dodging countless dangers along the way. This film is a lighthearted melding of adventure and comedy that remains a timeless classic.More The Aristocats- #289 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #60 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #37 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- 7Helen Reddy, Sean Marshall, Mickey RooneyIn the heartwarming adventure film Pete's Dragon, a young boy named Pete (Oakes Fegley) lives in the forests of the Pacific Northwest with his unusual, gargantuan friend, Elliot, a dragon. The film explores their unique bond and Pete's struggle to stay hidden from civilization. However, when a local forest ranger Grace (Bryce Dallas Howard) discovers Pete, their secret life is threatened. As authorities close in on them, it becomes clear that Elliot is more than just a figment of Pete's imagination. This movie, replete with thrilling moments and captivating special effects, offers an enchanting take on friendship and courage.More Pete's Dragon
- #155 of 452 onThe 400+ Best Animated Kids Movies
- #138 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #94 of 155 onThe 150+ Best Classic Tween Movies
8John Huston, Otto Preminger, Don MessickThe Hobbit is a 1977 animated musical television special created by Rankin/Bass, a studio known for their holiday specials, and animated by Topcraft, a precursor to Studio Ghibli, using lyrics adapted from the book. The film is an adaptation of the 1937 book of the same name by J. R. R. Tolkien and was first broadcast on NBC in the United States on Sunday, November 27, 1977.
9Eddie Albert, Ray Milland, Donald PleasenceIn the thrilling family adventure, Escape to Witch Mountain, two orphaned siblings, Tony (Ike Eisenmann) and Tia (Kim Richards), discover their extraordinary powers. With abilities ranging from telekinesis to precognition, the duo is on a desperate quest to uncover their origins. Along the way, they are pursued by a nefarious millionaire, Aristotle Bolt (Ray Milland), who seeks to exploit their mystical talents for his own gain. In this gripping 1975 Disney classic, director John Hough masterfully intertwines elements of mystery and suspense, crafting an unforgettable cinematic journey that transcends the boundaries of its sci-fi fantasy genre.- #144 of 178 onThe Best Alien Movies Of All Time, Ranked
- #89 of 200 onThe 195+ Greatest Adventure Movies
- #41 of 87 onThe Best Film Adaptations Of Young Adult Novels
10Patrick Wayne, Jane Seymour, Taryn PowerLegendary adventurer Sinbad (Patrick Wayne) stops in a port town to visit his friend Prince Kassim (Damien Thomas), only to find the city walls locked and no one there to greet him except an evil witch, Zenobia (Margaret Whiting), and her monstrous henchmen. Kassim's sister, Princess Farah (Jane Seymour), finds Sinbad and informs him her brother has been transformed into an ape, so now it's up to Sinbad to find the magic shrine that may be the only hope for restoring Kassim to his human form.- #54 of 343 on340+ Movies And Shows With Eye In The Title
- #41 of 56 onThe 50+ Best Swashbuckling Movies
- #56 of 93 onThe Best Kids Movies Of The 1970s
11Albert Finney, Alec Guinness, Edith EvansEbenezer Scrooge (Albert Finney) is the definition of a miser. He is rich, but completely stingy with his money, and he exploits the good nature of his employee Bob Cratchit (David Collings). On Christmas Eve, however, Scrooge is in store for a rude awakening when he is visited by the ghost of his old business partner, Jacob Marley (Alec Guinness), who informs him that he is going to be visited by three ghosts, including the Ghosts of Christmas Past (Edith Evans) and Present (Kenneth More).More Scrooge- #76 of 126 onThe Best Christmas Movies Of All Time
- #50 of 93 onThe Best Kids Movies Of The 1970s
- #14 of 47 onThe 45+ Best Movies Of 1970
12George Burns, John Denver, Teri GarrJerry Landers (John Denver), an assistant manager in a supermarket, receives a visit from God (George Burns), who appears in the form of an old man. Reluctant at first, Jerry agrees to spread the word about his visits from the almighty creator of heaven and earth. However, Jerry's wife, Bobbie (Teri Garr), is skeptical, and theologians think Jerry's God is a fake. As Jerry continues to receive visits from God, religious authorities take action and demand that he prove his story.More Oh, God!- #145 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #85 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #345 of 633 onThe 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
- 13Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Barry BostwickIn the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Picture Show, newly engaged couple Brad Majors (Barry Bostwick) and Janet Weiss (Susan Sarandon) find themselves in a bizarre world after their car breaks down. At the mercy of Dr. Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), an eccentric transvestite scientist, they witness outlandish events in his gothic mansion. The film, peppered with catchy rock songs and dance numbers, is a wild blend of sci-fi horror and bawdy comedy. Noteworthy for its distinctive style, it's become a staple midnight movie, winning over audiences since 1975.
- Dig Deeper...Every Song in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, Ranked by Singability
- #203 of 769 onThe Most Rewatchable Movies
- #20 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
14Bob Holt, Jesse Welles, Richard RomanusAfter the death of his mother, the evil mutant wizard Blackwolf (Steve Gravers) discovers some long-lost military technologies. Full of ego and ambition, Blackwolf claims his mother's throne, assembles an army and sets out to brainwash and conquer Earth. Meanwhile, Blackwolf's gentle twin brother, the bearded and sage Avatar (Bob Holt), calls upon his own magical abilities to foil Blackwolf's plans for world domination -- even if it means destroying his own flesh and blood.
15Warren Beatty, Julie Christie, Jack WardenIn the whimsical comedy Heaven Can Wait, Joe Pendleton (Warren Beatty), a promising quarterback for the Los Angeles Rams, finds himself prematurely dispatched to the afterlife due to an overzealous celestial escort. The celestial powers-that-be scramble to rectify their mistake, reincarnating Joe into the body of a recently murdered millionaire, Leo Farnsworth. Meanwhile, he falls for Betty Logan (Julie Christie), an advocate fighting against Farnsworth's corporate decisions. As Joe navigates this unconventional second chance at life, he must convince those around him of his true identity without losing his spot on the Rams or his newfound love. This film won an Academy Award for Art Direction in 1979.More Heaven Can Wait- #104 of 209 onThe Best Sports Movies Ever Made
- #241 of 704 onThe All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
- #62 of 114 onThe Greatest Movie Remakes Of All Time
16Malcolm McDowell, David Warner, Mary SteenburgenH.G. Wells (Malcolm McDowell) has built a time machine, and he plans on using it to travel to a Utopian paradise in the future. But before he can, Jack the Ripper (David Warner), on the run from the police, uses it to escape and travel to 1979. Wells follows, and enlists the help of a bank teller named Amy (Mary Steenburgen) to catch Jack before he continues his killing spree. As they work together, Wells falls for Amy, even as she has a hard time believing his wild story of time travel.More Time After Time- #121 of 178 onThe Best Science Fiction Action Movies
- #74 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #76 of 85 onMovies That Should Be Made Into Broadway Musicals, Ranked By Fans
17Michael Sacks, Ron Leibman, Valerie PerrineFrom his home in Ilium, N.Y., optometrist Billy Pilgrim (Michael Sacks) narrates the tale of how he came to be "unstuck in time." Kidnapped by aliens and living in comfort with his assigned mate, B-movie starlet Montana Wildhack (Valerie Perrine), Billy experiences the events of his life in random order, flitting between his past as an American prisoner of war in World War II, to his humdrum middle-class life in the present-day, to his future as a zoo curiosity on the planet Tralfamadore.More Slaughterhouse-Five- #167 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #34 of 48 onThe Best Time Travel Comedies, Ranked
- #5 of 13 onBanned Books That Were Made Into Movies
18Patrick Lilly, Mel Blanc, Daws ButlerA delivery arrives at the home of young Milo (Butch Patrick), and at first the small tollbooth appears to be an ordinary toy. But when Milo steers his miniature car through the booth's gateway, he finds himself in a mysterious fantasy land. In Dictionopolis, Milo and his dog sidekick Tock encounter a city fixated on words, and draw the ire of Officer Short Shrift (Mel Blanc). Milo also treks through Digitopolis and over the Mountains of Ignorance, an adventure that teaches the boy vital lessons.
19Jessica Harper, Stefania Casini, Joan BennettSuzy (Jessica Harper) travels to Germany to attend ballet school. When she arrives, late on a stormy night, no one lets her in, and she sees Pat (Eva Axén), another student, fleeing from the school. When Pat reaches her apartment, she is murdered. The next day, Suzy is admitted to her new school, but has a difficult time settling in. She hears noises, and often feels ill. As more people die, Suzy uncovers the terrifying secret history of the place.More Suspiria- #250 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
- #71 of 77 onThe 75+ Best Horror Franchises, Ranked By Scary Movie Fans
- #156 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
20Jack Nance, Charlotte Stewart, Allen JosephEraserhead, a surrealist body of work, explores the life of Henry Spencer (Jack Nance), an introverted man living in an industrial wasteland. He finds himself burdened with fatherhood as his girlfriend, Mary X (Charlotte Stewart), gives birth to a grotesque, constantly crying creature. The movie, directed by David Lynch, is renowned for its disturbing imagery and atmospheric sound design. It's a puzzling narrative that delves into themes of fear, responsibility, and the human condition. This cult classic has left audiences contemplating its meaning since its release in 1977.More Eraserhead- #197 of 252 onThe 200+ Best Psychological Thrillers Of All Time
- #73 of 125 onThe 100+ Grossest Movies Ever
- #347 of 397 onThe Best Horror Movies Of All Time
21Roy Scheider, Jessica Lange, Ann ReinkingAll That Jazz is a gripping exploration of life and death, orchestrated by the renowned director Bob Fosse. This semi-autobiographical musical drama dives into the tumultuous world of Joe Gideon (Roy Scheider), a work-obsessed Broadway director and choreographer grappling with his mortality. As he flits between reality and fantasy, the film delves into Gideon's chaotic lifestyle filled with dance, women, and ceaseless work. Jessica Lange stars as Angelique, a looming presence signifying death. The film clinched four Academy Awards in 1980, including Best Art Direction and Best Costume Design, solidifying its place in cinematic history.More All That Jazz- #162 of 204 onMusical Movies With The Best Songs
- #108 of 199 onThe Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
- #25 of 78 onThe 75+ Best Dance Movies Of All Time, Ranked
22Paul Williams, William Finley, Jessica HarperAfter record producer Swan (Paul Williams) steals the music of songwriter Winslow Leach (William Finley) and gives it to one of his bands, Leach sneaks into Swan's offices. Catching Leach, Swan frames him for dealing drugs, which lands him in prison. After Leach breaks out and again attempts to sabotage Swan's empire, an accident crushes his face. Leach then dons a costume and becomes the Phantom, intent on ruining Swan while saving singer Phoenix (Jessica Harper) from a terrible fate.
23Geraldine Chaplin, Héctor Alterio, Ana TorrentCría Cuervos is a 1976 Spanish drama film directed by Carlos Saura. The film is an allegorical drama about an eight-year-old girl dealing with loss. Highly acclaimed, it received the Special Jury Prize Award at the 1976 Cannes Film Festival.
24Bud Cort, Sally Kellerman, Michael MurphyBrewster McCloud (Bud Cort) isn't your normal sort of boy. He resides in a nuclear fallout shelter in the Houston Astrodome. He labors to make on a set of wings that he hopes will allow him to fly, and is supported in his oddball mission by the maternal Louise (Sally Kellerman). But when the boy's enemies start dying off -- including a national anthem singer and Brewster's penny-pinching boss -- he becomes the object of an investigation by Police Det. Lt. Frank Shaft (Michael Murphy).
25Cathryn Harrison, Therese Giehse, Alexandra StewartA host of bizarre characters dominates a tale about a girl (Cathryn Harrison) on the run from warring forces in a futuristic country.
