Ghost (1990)

The film that gave us that iconic sexy pottery scene! Sam and Molly are madly in love but tragedy strikes when Sam is murdered by thugs. With Molly’s life still in danger he comes back from the grave through psychic Oda Mae Brown to protect her. Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore give outstanding performances as the ill fated lovers and Whoopi Goldberg’s performance as psychic Oda Mae won her an oscar.

Jumanji (1995)

A magical board game unleashes a world of adventure on young boy and girl siblings, Peter and Judy Shepherd. While exploring an old mansion, the youngsters find a curious, jungle-themed game called Jumanji in the attic. When they start playing, they free Alan Parrish, who’s been stuck in the game’s inner world for decades. If they win Jumanji, the kids can free Alan for good — but that means braving giant bugs, ill-mannered monkeys and even stampeding rhinos!

This is a fantasy adventure that was based loosely on the picture book of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg. Reviews were a little mixed but the movie was a huge box office hit and a whole franchise was spawned. This included an animated TV series and two non related sequels in 2017 and 2019. With a fantastic performance from the late Robin Williams, if you haven’t yet seen this movie somehow then it isn’t just one that’s for the kids!

Princess Mononoke

In the 14th century, the harmony that humans, animals and gods have enjoyed begins to crumble. The protagonist, young Ashitaka – infected by an animal attack, seeks a cure from the deer-like god Shishigami. In his travels, he sees humans ravaging the earth, bringing down the wrath of wolf god Moro and his human companion Princess Mononoke. His attempts to broker peace between her and the humans brings only conflict.

This is an animated epic historical fantasy movie from acclaimed Studio Ghibli. Upon its release it was a critical and commercial success, becoming the highest grossing film of 1997 in Japan. Princess Mononoke is also regarded as being the movie that raised the profile of Studio Ghibli around the world. This movie has been widely lauded and has inspired many other projects. This is an absolute must see movie!

Edwards Scissorhands (1990)

Vincent Price is a talented scientist who builds an animated human being. The gentle Edward, played by Jonny Depp. Tragically the scientist dies before he can complete his creation. This leaves the young man with a freakish appearance and scissors for hands. Kind and caring Avon sales lady Peg (Dianne West) comes across Edward while calling at the castle hoping to sell her cosmetics. Peg takes pity on Edward and takes him to her home. Peg’s teen daughter Kim (Winona Ryder) finds a connection with Edward and the two grow close.

Initially the neighbourhood takes to Edward as he helps them by hedge trimming, dog grooming and eventually hairdressing. However, despite his kindness and artistic talent, Edward’s hands still make him an outcast. This movie is something of a gothic modern fairy tale and it is the first collaboration of Tim Burton and Jonny Depp, if you haven’t seen this movie then you don’t know what you are missing!

Pleasantville (1998)

Impressed by high school student David’s devotion to a 1950s family TV show, a mysterious television repairman provides him with a means to escape into the black-and-white program with his sister, Jennifer. While David initially takes to the simplistic, corny world of the show, Jennifer sets about jolting the characters with doses of reality that unexpectedly bring a little color into their drab existence.

This is a teen fantasy comedy drama. The movie was something of a box office flop despite being praised critically. So despite not doing well commercially this is still a film well worth a watch.

The Addams Family (1991)

When a man claiming to be Fester, the missing brother of Gomez Addams , arrives at the Addams’ home, the family is thrilled. However, Morticia begins to suspect the man is a fraud, since he cannot recall details of Fester’s life. With the help of lawyer Tully Alford, Fester manages to get the Addams clan evicted from their home. Gomez realizes the two men are conspiring to swindle the Addams fortune and that he must challenge Fester.

This supernatural black comedy is based on the comic series from Charles Addams and the TV series from 1964. The Horror Hall Of Fame awarded the movie Best Horror Film of the year in 1991. So what more reason do you need to watch!

The Fifth Element (1997)

In the 23rd century, a New York City cabbie, Korben Dallas, finds the fate of the world in his hands when Leeloo falls into his cab. Leeloo will need to combine with four other elements in order to keep the approaching Great Evil from destroying the world.

The Fifth Element is a sci fi fantasy action movie and it stars Bruce Willis, Gary Oldman, and Milla Jovovich. Reactions to the movie were quite polarising but ultimately reviews were mostly positive. The movie won several awards, such as from the British Academy Film Awards, the César Awards, the Cannes Film Festival, and the Lumières Awards. Alternatively the movie also received nominations at the Golden Raspberry and Stinkers Bad Movie Awards. So the conclusion is that you need to watch this movie and make up your mind for yourself!

The Mummy (1999)

The Mummy is a rousing, suspenseful and horrifying epic about an expedition of treasure-seeking explorers in the Sahara Desert in 1925. Stumbling upon an ancient tomb, the hunters unwittingly set loose a 3,000-year-old legacy of terror, which is embodied in the vengeful reincarnation of an Egyptian priest who had been sentenced to an eternity as one of the living dead.

This action adventure fantasy is a remake of the 1932 movie of the same name. Although critical reception was mixed the movie was a box office hit and a whole franchise was spawned. This included sequel movies, spin offs and an animated TV show. This is definitely a fun romp of a movie!

The Green Mile (1999)

Paul Edgecomb walked the mile with a variety of cons. He had never encountered someone like John Coffey, a massive black man convicted of brutally killing a pair of young sisters. Coffey had the size and strength to kill anyone, but not the demeanor. Beyond his simple, naive nature and a deathly fear of the dark, Coffey seemed to possess a prodigious, supernatural gift. Paul began to question whether Coffey was truly guilty of murdering the two girls.

This fantasy drama is based on the book of the same name from Stephen King. Critics loved this movie and it was also a commercial success with the cast performances particularly being praised. This is something of a behemoth of a movie in terms of run time, coming in at a whopping 3 hours 9 minutes. So if the epic length doesn’t put you off then give this movie a view. You might need to keep the tissues handy!

Hocus Pocus (1993)

After moving to Salem, Mass., teenager Max Dennison explores an abandoned house with his sister Dani and their new friend, Allison. After dismissing a story Allison tells as superstitious, Max accidentally frees a coven of evil witches who used to live in the house. Now, with the help of a magical cat, the kids must steal the witches’ book of spells to stop them from becoming immortal.

This fantasy comedy horror was both a box office flop and wasn’t a hit with the critics either. Though the movie has since risen in popularity and has become a Halloween cult classic. But if you haven’t seen this movie then you don’t even have to wait until next Halloween to watch this though.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1997)

The film follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown’s beloved pumpkin king, who has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the “real world.” When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colors and warm spirits, he gets a new lease on life — he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. But Jack soon discovers even the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry.

This stop-motion animated musical dark fantasy is directed by Tim Burton. This movie was a huge commercial and critical success upon its release. And it has since become a much loved cult classic. With beautiful animation, a fantastic score and outstanding cast performance this is seriously a 90s movie not to miss!

Practical Magic (1998)

Sally and Gillian Owens, born into a magical family, have mostly avoided witchcraft themselves. But when Gillian’s vicious boyfriend, Jimmy Angelov, dies unexpectedly, the Owens sisters give themselves a crash course in hard magic. With police officer Gary Hallet growing suspicious, the girls struggle to resurrect Angelov — and unwittingly inject his corpse with an evil spirit that threatens to end their family line.

This is a fantasy romantic comedy based on the book of the same name by Alice Hoffman. Again this movie didn’t receive the best reviews and was also a box office bomb. But it has since risen to become a cult classic so especially if you like romance then catch this movie!

The Craft (1996)

After transferring to a Los Angeles high school, Sarah finds that her telekinetic gift appeals to a group of three wannabe witches, who happen to be seeking a fourth member for their rituals. Bonnie, Rochelle and Nancy, like Sarah herself, all have troubled backgrounds, which combined with their nascent powers lead to dangerous consequences. When a minor spell causes a fellow student to lose her hair, the girls grow power-mad.

This is a teen supernatural horror film that was a surprise box office hit. Although reviews have been mixed this is another movie on this list that is considered to be a cult classic.

Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Set in 1799, “Sleepy Hollow” is based on Washington Irving’s classic tale “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Faithful to the dreamy custom-bound world that Irving paints in his story, the film mixes horror, fantasy and romance and features an extraordinary cast of characters that dabble in the supernatural.

This supernatural gothic fantasy movie is based on the short story, The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow from Washington Irving.

Batman Returns (1992)

The monstrous Penguin, who lives in the sewers beneath Gotham, joins up with wicked shock-headed businessman Max Shreck to topple the Batman once and for all. But when Shreck’s timid assistant, Selina Kyle, finds out, and Shreck tries to kill her, she is transformed into the sexy Catwoman. She teams up with the Penguin and Shreck to destroy Batman, but sparks fly unexpectedly when she confronts the caped crusader.

This superhero movie is directed by Tim Burton and is based on the DC comic book character Batman (sorry for pointing out the obvious!). The movie was a massive box office hit and was praised for its acting performances, the score (from Danny Elfman), effects, villains and action sequences. So if you are a Batman fan or not this film is most definitely worth a watch!

Casper (1995)

Casper is a kind young ghost who peacefully haunts a mansion in Maine. When specialist James Harvey arrives to communicate with Casper and his fellow spirits, he brings along his teenage daughter, Kat. Casper quickly falls in love with Kat, but their budding relationship is complicated not only by his transparent state, but also by his troublemaking apparition uncles and their mischievous antics.

This is a dark fantasy comedy drama featuring Casper The Friendly Ghost from the cartoon series. This was the first movie to feature a CGI character in the main role. This animated feature received mixed reviews but was praised for staying faithful to its source material. Not one to miss!

The Secret Garden (1993)

When Mary Lennox’s parents suddenly die, she is sent to live with her uncle, Archibald Craven, on his remote country estate deep in the Yorkshire moors. While exploring, she discovers a hidden magical garden.

This is a fantasy drama based on the book of the same name from Frances Hodgson Burnett. The movie was a huge commercial and critical success and it does have darker themes so this isn’t just one for the kids!

The Crow (1994)

The night before his wedding, musician Eric Draven and his fiancée are brutally murdered by members of a violent inner-city gang. On the anniversary of their death, Eric rises from the grave and assumes the gothic mantle of the Crow, a supernatural avenger. Tracking down the thugs responsible for the crimes and mercilessly murdering them, Eric eventually confronts head gangster Top Dollar to complete his macabre mission.

This is a supernatural superhero movie based on the graphic novel of the same name from James O’Barr. Following the tragic on-set death of Brandon Lee Paramount Pictures opted out of distributing the movie. It was picked up by Miramax who oversaw its completion. The movie was a huge critical and commercial success and has gained a cult following. With an excellent tone and visuals along with a strong performance from the cast, particularly Brandon Lee. The soundtrack is also amazing. This movie is definitely a must watch!

Death Becomes Her (1992)

When a novelist loses her man to a movie star and former friend, she winds up in a psychiatric hospital. Years later, she returns home to confront the now-married couple, looking radiant. Her ex-husband’s new wife wants to know her secret, and discovers that she has been taking a mysterious drug which grants eternal life to the person who drinks it. The actress follows suit, but discovers that immortality has a price.

This is a satirical black comedy fantasy movie. This movie was released to mixed reviews but it was a huge commercial success. It has since gained a cult following so if you haven’t seen this movie then rectify that now!

Jurassic Park (1993)

Paleontologists Alan Grant and Ellie Sattler, along with mathematician Ian Malcolm, are among a select group chosen to tour an island theme park. The park is populated with dinosaurs created from prehistoric DNA. But various ferocious predators have broken free to go on the hunt.

Jurassic Park is a science fiction action film directed by Steven Spielberg and stars Sam Neill, Lauren Dern and Jeff Goldblum. It is based on the book of the same name from author Michael Crichton. This movie was the highest grossing film of 1993 and was also a critical success, being praised for its score, acting performances, special effects and directing. Jurassic Park has since become a huge franchise with further movies, video games and merchandise. The latest movie is out this year so if somehow you have never seen the original then please do so now!

Alien 3 (1992)

Ellen Ripley is the only survivor when she crash lands on Fiorina 161. It’s a bleak wasteland inhabited by former inmates of the planet’s max security prison. However, there is an alien that is hunting down the prisoners and guards. Without weapons or modern technology, Ripley leads the men into battle.

This is a science fiction horror movie, the third in the Alien franchise and has Sigourney Weaver reprising her role as Ellen Ripley. This movie did underperform to expectations and is regarded as being inferior to the first two movies in the series but if you have watched those then you should still watch this!

Willow (1988)

Enter the world of “Willow.” Journey to the far corners of your imagination, to a land of myth and magic, where dream and reality live side by side … to a place that never existed, a time that never was. It is a world where a young man named Willow lives out an adventure that explodes beyond the boundaries of his own hopes and fears.

Willow is a dark fantasy drama directed by Ron Howard. Whilst this movie wasn’t the expected box office blockbuster it still ended up turning a profit when released to home video and has become something of a cult classic.

Labyrinth (1986)

A young girl, who enters a world of her own creation, experiences her first awareness of love, responsibility and danger. Sixteen-year-old Sarah is given thirteen hours to solve a labyrinth and rescue her baby brother Toby when her wish for him to be taken away is granted by the Goblin King Jareth.

Labyrinth is a musical fantasy drama directed by Jim Henson and starring David Bowie as the Goblin King. The movie was a surprise box office flop and it is definitely a little on the strange side! But since its release in 1986 this film has achieved cult status and is now a must watch classic!

Legend (1986)

Darkness seeks to create eternal night by destroying the last of the unicorns. Jack and his friends do everything possible to save the world and Princess Lili from the hands of Darkness. Enter a world of unicorns, magic swamps, dwarfs and rainbows.

This is a dark fantasy adventure movie directed by Ridley Scott and starring a young Tom Cruise. It wasn’t a big commercial success upon its release but the movie did garner multiple award nominations. It is also another movie on this list that has become regarded as a cult classic.

The Neverending Story (1984)

To escape from his dull life and bullies at school, Bastain takes refuge in an old book store. There, he begins reading an old storybook and finds himself drawn into the mythical world of Fantasia.

If you were a child in the 80s then there is no way you haven’t seen this movie! Based on the novel of the same name from German author Michael Ende, this movie only covers the first half of the book. The sequels then cover the rest of the book. The movie was a huge success at both the box office and critically. If somehow you haven’t seen this then be sure to catch it now!

Beetlejuice (1988)

When the deceased couple Adam and Barbara are unsuccessful in scaring away a family that has moved into their old home, they seek the help of bio-exorcist Betelgeuse.

Beetlejuice, beetlejuice, beetlejuice. Yes, that’s how we summon the not so helpful bio-exorcist. This is a fantasy comedy directed by Tim Burton. The big name cast includes Micheal Keaton, Gina Davis, Alec Baldwin and Winona Ryder. Another commercial and critical success this movie also won several Oscars. This is definitely a fun jape of a movie and an 80s classic not to miss!

Gremlins (1984)

Billy’s father gets him a pet from China with three very specific instructions. However, when Billy does not follow them, it unleashes a horde of monsters.

We all remember the Mogwai ownership rules right? Well Billy didn’t take enough care and it’s fair to say mayhem ensued on Christmas Eve. This black horror comedy was a huge success despite being criticised for its violent themes. A sequel was also released and a third film is in the works currently. So if you have never caught up with the adorable Gizmo and the havoc the gremlins cause then don’t miss out!

The Dark Crystal (1982)

On a fictional planet, the damaged Dark Crystal marks the onset of the age of chaos. If the crystal is not healed during the great conjunction of the three suns, the evil Skekses will rule forever.

This is a dark fantasy film directed by Jim Henson and Frank Oz. Although it was marketed as a family film the tone is quite dark. Not a huge success on its release although it was praised for its story, characters and aesthetic. It is another film worthy of it’s achieved cult status.

Splash (1984)

Allen is rescued from drowning by a mermaid. Years later, he returns to the same location, and manages to fall into the sea, and is rescued by the mermaid.

This is a fantasy romance movie directed by Ron Howard and starring Tom Hanks and Darryl Hannah. The movie was the tenth highest grossing movie of 1984 and is widely considered to be one of the best movies of the year. So if you have missed out on this gem then the time to watch is now!

Krull (1983)

On the planet of Krull, an evil creature called the Beast decimates the world’s army and kidnaps the lovely Princess Lyssa, who is destined to become queen. Her brave beau, Prince Colwyn, leads a motley band of warriors, including Ergo and Kegan, to rescue his beloved. However, before he can face the Beast, Colwyn must locate a mystical weapon known as the Glaive, which he can use to slay the hideous villain.

This is a science fantasy film directed by Peter Yates and featuring an ensemble cast. Although the movie was a box office bomb and it was criticised for the plot being derivative and nonsensical. But bear with us as this film has since become regarded as being a cult classic and should be on any 80s movie watchlist.

My Neighbor Totoro (1988)

This acclaimed animated tale by director Hayao Miyazaki follows schoolgirl Satsuke and her younger sister, Mei, as they settle into an old country house with their father and wait for their mother to recover from an illness in an area hospital. As the sisters explore their new home, they encounter and befriend playful spirits in their house and the nearby forest, most notably the massive cuddly creature known as Totoro.

This animated fantasy film from the acclaimed Studio Ghibli is written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki. My Neighbor Totoro received universal acclaim and has garnered a worldwide cult following since its release. The film and the character Totoro have become cultural icons. The movie is often listed in the prestigious best films lists and has amassed over 1 billion in revenue since its release. Exploring themes such as animism, Shinto symbology, environmentalism and the joys of rural living this is an anime movie you shouldn’t miss out on.

Big (1988)

After a wish turns 12-year-old Josh Baskin into a 30-year-old man, he heads to New York City and gets a low-level job at MacMillen Toy Company. A chance encounter with the owner of the company leads to a promotion testing new toys. Soon a fellow employee, Susan Lawrence, takes a romantic interest in Josh. However, the pressure of living as an adult begins to overwhelm him, and he longs to return to his simple, former life as a boy.

This is a fantasy comedy directed by Penny Marshall and starring Tom Hanks. The film was met with critical positivity, particularly for Hanks performance. It was also a huge commercial success. This is one of the more light hearted films on this list so if you prefer things a little less dark then this may be the movie for you!

Batteries Not Included (1988)

Aliens help a feisty old New York couple in their battle against the ruthless land developer who’s out to evict them. Aliens help a feisty old New York couple in their battle against the ruthless land developer who’s out to evict them.

This is a comic science fiction film directed by Matthew Robbins. This movie did well at the box office and although reviews were a little mixed for some lighthearted fun this movie has good character.

The Witches Of Eastwick (1987)

Three small-town friends, Alexandra, Jane and Sukie, each having lost the man in their lives, are feeling unfulfilled — until a furtive stranger, Daryl Van Horne, arrives and begins courting each of them in turn. Eventually, Daryl tells them that they are witches. But as the three friends spend more time at his mansion, enjoying themselves and learning about their powers, they begin to worry about Daryl’s ultimate intentions.

This is a dark fantasy-comedy film directed by George Miller. It stars Jack Nicholson, Cher, Michelle Pfeiffer and Susan Sarandon. This movie was met with mostly positive critical response, with Nicholson’s performance particularly being praised. This is another fun 80s fantasy movie that is definitely worth your time!

The Princess Bride (1987)

A fairy tale adventure about a beautiful young woman and her one true love. He must find her after a long separation and save her. They must battle the evils of the mythical kingdom of Florin to be reunited with each other. Based on the William Goldman novel “The Princess Bride” which earned its own loyal audience.

This is a fantasy romance movie based on the novel of the same name from William Goldman. It did moderately well at the box office and was mostly praised but it snowballed into the cult classic it is known as today.

Castle In The Sky (1986)

Young orphan Sheeta and her kidnapper, Col. Muska, are flying to a military prison when their plane is attacked by a gang of air pirates led by the matronly Dola. Escaping from a mid-air collision via a magic crystal around her neck, Sheeta meets fellow orphan Pazu and the pair join forces to discover the mystical floating city of Laputa while pursued by both Muska and the pirates, who lust for the city’s myriad treasures.

Another Studio Ghibli classic, directed and written by Hayao Miyazaki this is an animated fantasy adventure movie. Both a box office and critical success this movie is towards the top of a lot of polls for best animated movie. It also has a strong influence on Japanese popular culture and has inspired many films, media and games. This is a must watch!

Highlander (1986)

When the mystical Russell Nash kills a man in a sword fight in a New York City parking lot, he leaves a sliver of an ancient weapon lodged in a car in the process. After brilliant forensics specialist Brenda Wyatt recovers evidence of the mysterious weapon, she and her partner, Lt. Frank Moran, embark on an investigation Of Nash that will land them in the middle of a dangerous, centuries-old feud between powerful immortals.

This is a fantasy action-adventure film directed by Russell Mulcahy. It is based on a story by Gregory Widen and stars Christopher Lambert, Roxanne Hart, Clancy Brown, and Sean Connery. This was neither a box office nor critical success but again went on to achieve cult status. This then inspired sequel movies and a television spin off. And of course the infamous tagline, “There can be only one”.

Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind (1984)

Far in the future, after an apocalyptic conflict has devastated much of the world’s ecosystem, the few surviving humans live in scattered semi-hospitable environments within what has become a “toxic jungle.” Young Nausicaä lives in the arid Valley of the Wind and can communicate with the massive insects that populate the dangerous jungle. Under the guidance of the pensive veteran warrior, Lord Yupa, Nausicaä works to bring peace back to the ravaged planet.

This Japanese Anime film is written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki and is based on his 1982 manga. Upon its release the movie received critical acclaim and in 2007 it was ranked as the best Japanese anime in a survey by the Japan’s Agency for Cultural Affairs. The movie is seen as being a heavy influence on the future of anime. So whether or not you are an anime fan then be sure to check this film out.

The Last Unicorn (1982)

In this animated musical, the villainous King Haggard plots to destroy all the world’s unicorns. When a young unicorn learns that she’s in danger and that she may soon be the last of her kind, she leaves the safety of her protected forest and enlists the help of Schmendrick, a gentle, albeit clumsy, sorcerer. Together, they embark on a long and dangerous journey with one goal: to defeat Haggard and save the unicorns from extinction.

This animated fantasy is based on the novel of the same name from Peter S. Beagle. The movie was largely reviewed positively and is yet another movie on this list to have gained legendary cult status.

The Black Cauldron (1985)

In the land of Prydain, lowly pig herder Taran dreams of becoming a gallant knight. Young Taran receives his heroic calling when the evil Horned King kidnaps Hen-Wren, a prophesying pig that had been entrusted to Taran. Now, with help from his furry sidekick Gurgi and Princess Eilonwy, Taran must locate the magical black cauldron before the Horned King is able to use its mystical powers to summon an army of the undead.

This is an animated dark fantasy movie from Disney. It was the first Disney movie to receive a PG rating and it was a box office bomb, partly due to critics disapproving of its dark nature. Despite the negativity the movie has been praised for its score and many critics have praised the characters and the involving story. This is definitely still worth a watch!