The fantasy genre has always been a playground for imagination, delivering everything from epic blockbusters to intimate, thought-provoking tales. With a slate of upcoming films that blend beloved franchises with fresh concepts, the future looks bright for fantasy lovers. We've ranked the most anticipated fantasy movies on the horizon, based on buzz, talent, and potential impact.
10. How to Train Your Dragon 2 (Live-Action)
Release Date: June 11, 2027
Live-action remakes of animated classics have been a mixed bag, but How to Train Your Dragon bucked the trend thanks to director Dean DeBlois's faithful touch. Now, the sequel gets the same treatment. Many fans consider the animated How to Train Your Dragon 2 the franchise's best, so expectations are sky-high. If this live-action version captures even half the emotional weight of the original, it could be a soaring success.
9. Practical Magic 2
Release Date: September 11, 2026
The 1998 cult classic Practical Magic is getting a legacy sequel, reuniting Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman for more witchy fun. Alongside returning stars Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest, new faces like Lee Pace, Maisie Williams, and Joey King join the coven. The charm of the original duo is enough to generate excitement, but the fresh blood adds intrigue.
8. Frozen III
Release Date: November 24, 2027
Disney's Frozen franchise has become a cultural phenomenon, and the third installment arrives eight years after Frozen II. With the same cast and crew returning, fans can expect more catchy songs and stunning winter animation. While the sequel may not reinvent the wheel, its proven formula ensures it will be a must-watch for families and fantasy fans alike.
7. The Legend of Zelda
Release Date: April 30, 2027
After decades of rumors, Nintendo's iconic fantasy franchise is finally getting a live-action film. Directed by Wes Ball (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes), the movie draws inspiration from the entire Zelda timeline, from the NES classic to Breath of the Wild. The pressure is immense, but the talent and source material suggest this could be a landmark video game adaptation.
6. Highlander (Reboot)
Release Date: TBA
The original Highlander remains a cult classic of fantasy action, despite its uneven sequels. A reboot has been in the works for years, but the star power attached—including Henry Cavill—has fans cautiously optimistic. With a director known for stylish action, this could finally give the franchise the revival it deserves.
5. Wildwood
Release Date: TBA
From the director of The Nightmare Before Christmas comes Wildwood, an animated fantasy based on Colin Meloy's novel. Set in a magical forest filled with talking animals and ancient secrets, the film promises the kind of whimsical, handcrafted animation that feels increasingly rare. Early buzz suggests it could be a sleeper hit.
4. The Odyssey
Release Date: TBA
Christopher Nolan is tackling Homer's epic poem The Odyssey, and the combination of Nolan's ambition and a star-studded cast (including Matt Damon and Tom Holland) has anticipation soaring. Expect a visually stunning, mind-bending take on the classic myth that only Nolan could deliver.
3. Wicked: Part Two
Release Date: November 26, 2027
The second half of the Wicked film adaptation is already generating massive buzz, especially after the first film's success. With Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande returning, this musical fantasy promises to deliver the emotional payoff fans have been waiting for. It's poised to be one of the biggest box office draws of the decade.
2. Avatar: Fire and Ash
Release Date: December 19, 2025
James Cameron's Avatar franchise continues to push the boundaries of visual effects and world-building. The third installment, Fire and Ash, introduces new Na'vi cultures and a darker tone. With Cameron's track record, this is likely to be both a critical and commercial juggernaut.
1. Dune: Part Three
Release Date: TBA
Denis Villeneuve's Dune saga is the gold standard for modern fantasy epics. The third film, adapting Dune Messiah, promises to conclude Paul Atreides's arc with the same breathtaking scope and philosophical depth. With Timothée Chalamet and the ensemble cast returning, this is the most anticipated fantasy film on the horizon.
From live-action remakes to visionary sequels, these upcoming fantasy movies represent the best the genre has to offer. Whether you're a fan of epic adventures or intimate character studies, there's something to look forward to. For more on the latest in entertainment, check out our coverage of hard sci-fi classics and timeless love stories.
