Fantasy movies take you into different worlds and immerse you in settings that would otherwise not exist. Netflix’s catalogue of fantasy movies has been steadily growing and we now have some of the best fantasy movies on Netflix in 2020. From movies that boast of magic on Netflix to the top fantasy movies on Netflix, there is a lot on offer for your eyes. Some of these movies even rank in the most-watched Netflix fantasy movies list and aren't necessarily new movies. The fantasy genre is growing rapidly on a daily basis and some of them showcase a cyberpunk dystopian future whereas others have alternate realities while some are set in a galaxy far, far away. Some of them are literally about extinction and others are about mythical beasts. Some are about time travel. So if you are looking to delve into new worlds, here is a look at the best fantasy movies to watch on Netflix in 2020.
The Lord of the Rings trilogy is a must-watch for anyone looking for the ultimate fantasy experience. It doesn't get better than the Lord of the Rings. Even though the first movie in the series was released back in 2001, it still holds up visually even today. That's a testament to the effort and care taken between practical effects and special effects. We wish the extended versions were on Netflix for the true Lord of the Rings experience, but the standard editions on offer provide an immersive experience nonetheless. The story of the trilogy may be simple, but it is the journey itself that will keep you engaged. If you would like to introduce someone to a fantasy world, The Lord of the Rings is the best place to start.
Another series that's based on a series of books is The Chronicles of Narnia. There were supposed to be 4 films but only three were released and it was announced in 2018 that the new adaptations of the series would be made for Netflix. We are still waiting on details of those but until then you can enjoy the three movies on Netflix. Four siblings find a wardrobe that leads them to the fantastic world of Narnia where they meet a talking lion who guides them on a journey predicted by prophecy. It is a family-friendly trilogy and one that will definitely keep you entertained with its fantastical world and immersive set-piece moments.
If you enjoyed Netflix’s adaptation of the Altered Carbon book and want more, then there is the animated film Altered Carbon Resleeved. You once again follow the story of Takeshi Kovacs as he finds himself in a new sleeve (or a body, for you mere mortals) and must protect a teenage tattooist named Holly while investigating the death of a yakuza boss alongside Gina, a strangely familiar no-nonsense CTAC agent. The events this time take place on the planet Latimer.
Released in 2009 and based on the epic graphic novel by the legendary Alan Moore, Watchmen follows the story of a band of unlikely superheroes. When one of them is killed, a superhero called Rorschach starts investigating the murder and it leads him tumbling down a rabbit hole of mysteries, conspiracies and an ending which a stark departure from the novel. The movie may have received a mixed reception but it is true to the lore of the novel and one heck of a ride for viewers.
Another movie based on a book, Ready Player One is set in a dystopian future where everyone is addicted to the virtual world. The creator of the virtual world OASIS dies and leaves players with three quests to complete to gain control over his empire. Naturally, an evil corporation has set its best gamers to win the competition but on the other side, there is a fan of the OASIS, an unlikely hero who manages to save the day.
It’s hard to believe that the Mummy was released way back in 1999. The visual effects of the movie hold up relatively well today and the plot is one action-adventure you will definitely enjoy. We aren't talking about the Tom Cruise reboot of the movie here, FYI. We are talking about the original one starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. Arnold Vosloo does a fantastic job of portraying the iconic Mummy. The first 2 movies in the franchise – The Mummy and The Mummy Returns are fantastic with the third movie in the series, The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor being an average entry. Safe to say, you can enjoy the first 2 movies on Netflix and ignore the rest.
Another adaptation of Alan Moore’s graphic novel, V for Vendetta stars Agent Smith himself, AKA Hugo Weaving in the lead role behind the mask. The plot is quite simple. In a futuristic, totalitarian Britain, there is a freedom fighter who goes by the name V. He uses terrorist tactics to fight the oppressive society. After you watch the movie, you will always remember the 5th of November.
It's hard to talk about Extinction without ruining the plot, but I’m going to try anyway. A man has a recurring dream about losing his family and the city he lives in gets destroyed by invaders from the skies, aliens if you will. His worst nightmare suddenly becomes a reality and he finds himself battling for his life. This may sound like a simple plot, but it's the twist that comes halfway through the movie and at the end that will make you go Woah! The movie has received polarizing reviews, but it's definitely worth your time since you aren’t going anywhere for the next few days.
Predestination is more of a Sci-Fi Time Travel movie but its setting does put it in the fantasy genre as well. For his final mission, a time-travelling cop must catch the one criminal that has evaded him his entire career. The movie stars Ethan Hawke in one of his best performances to date. The plot of the movie is so well executed, that you will definitely want to watch this movie more than once.
Even though all the 5 Pirates of the Caribbean movies are available on Netflix, it is only the first one that deserves our recommendation. You are welcome to check out all the movies set in this fantastical universe, but none of the others lives up to the standards set by the first movie. Johnny Depp is at his finest as Captain Jack Sparrow on a quest to get back his beloved Black Pearl ship. On his journey, he meets the undead and encounters some old friends and unlikely companions.