In the world of movie franchises, consistency is a rare gem. Sequels often fall short of the original, and multi-film series can be a rollercoaster of quality. But when a franchise manages to improve with each installment, it's a remarkable achievement. Fantasy, in particular, has seen several series that not only maintain their magic but actually get better as they go. Here are five fantasy franchises that prove the best is yet to come.
Star Wars Prequel Trilogy (1999-2005)
While many label Star Wars as sci-fi, creator George Lucas always considered it a space fantasy rooted in mythology. The original trilogy is iconic, but its finale is often seen as a slight dip. The prequel trilogy, however, tells a different story. Starting with the divisive The Phantom Menace, the series steadily improved. Attack of the Clones raised the bar, and Revenge of the Sith delivered a dark, action-packed spectacle that still holds up visually two decades later. It's a testament to how a franchise can find its footing and soar.
Dungeons & Dragons Series (2000-2023)
The Dungeons & Dragons movies based on the beloved tabletop game had a rocky start. The 2000 film was a CGI-heavy disaster with flat dialogue and no world-building. Its sequels in 2005 and 2012 were marginally better but still forgettable. Then came 2023's Honor Among Thieves, a witty, grand-scale adventure that finally captured the game's spirit. With sharp humor, stunning visuals, and a standalone story, it's a shining example of how a franchise can redeem itself. For more underrated fantasy gems, check out Eric Kripke and Eli Roth's forgotten dark fantasy 'The House With a Clock in Its Walls'.
How to Train Your Dragon Series (2010-Present)
DreamWorks' animated How to Train Your Dragon franchise started strong with a rich Viking world and detailed dragon lore. The first three films were beloved, though the third was a minor step down. The series then pivoted to live-action with the 2025 remake, which added maturity and emotional depth, earning widespread acclaim. With a sequel on the way, this franchise proves that dragons—and the stories around them—only get cooler with time.
Harry Potter Series (2001-2011)
The Harry Potter films were a cultural phenomenon, growing darker and more complex as the characters aged. From the whimsical Philosopher's Stone to the epic Deathly Hallows, each movie deepened the Wizarding World's lore and stakes. The series' ability to evolve with its audience is why it remains a benchmark for fantasy franchises. For more on fantasy literature, see our Top 10 Fantasy Books of the Last 25 Years.
Why These Series Succeed
What sets these franchises apart is their willingness to grow. Whether through darker themes, improved visuals, or richer storytelling, they prove that sequels can be more than just cash grabs. They build on what came before, raising the bar for the genre. For fans of fantasy, these series are a reminder that sometimes, the best is saved for last.
