Fantasy is the most imaginative genre in cinema, inviting viewers into worlds of myth, magic, and monsters. But a great fantasy film needs a great opening—one that builds trust in its universe and grabs attention immediately. From irreverent comedies to epic animations, these are the best-ranked fantasy movie opening scenes that set the bar high.
10. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975)
The British comedy troupe Monty Python took a satirical swing at Arthurian legend with Monty Python and the Holy Grail, now one of the most quotable films ever. True to form, the opening isn't a medieval plunge but a barrage of jokes in the credits. Faux-Swedish subtitles advertise tourism, then veer into a bizarre tale of a moose biting someone's sister. Attempts to stop the subtitles lead to flashing lights and llama references. It's chaotic, unpredictable, and a perfect taste of the Python madness to come.
9. The Last Unicorn (1982)
Rankin/Bass and Japan's Topcraft teamed up for this animated gem based on Peter S. Beagle's novel. The opening shows hunters discussing the last unicorn's forest, then transitions to a title sequence set to America's melancholic theme song. The medieval tapestry-style imagery and lyrics about time crumbling all things set a bittersweet tone. It warns viewers this isn't a simple fairy tale—it's a story that will make you feel both sad and hopeful.
8. Princess Mononoke (1997)
Studio Ghibli's masterpiece begins with Prince Ashitaka defending his village from Nago, a boar god transformed into a demon of rage. The demon's design is grotesque—a swarm of blood-red worms that occasionally part to reveal the crazed beast. The fast-paced, detailed animation, enhanced by CGI, makes the creature feel otherworldly. This opening immediately establishes the film's themes of nature versus humanity and the destructive power of hate.
7. Shrek (2001)
DreamWorks Animation truly arrived with Shrek, and its opening is a masterclass in character building. Shrek scoffs at a fairy tale, uses its pages as toilet paper, then goes about his day to Smash Mouth's "All Star." His gross routine—including scaring off villagers—shows he's content but not as monstrous as he seems. The song's lyrics about overcoming adversity reinforce the film's themes of judgment and self-acceptance, while slyly mocking Disney's grand musical openings.
6. The Seventh Seal (1957)
Ingmar Bergman's Swedish classic opens on a beach where knight Antonius Block and his squire Jöns encounter Death. Block challenges Death to a chess match, a minimalist yet powerful setup. The stark imagery and existential dread immediately hook viewers, exploring faith, mortality, and meaning in a flawed world. It's a haunting start to one of cinema's most profound meditations on life and death.
5. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
Peter Jackson's epic begins with a prologue narrated by Galadriel, recounting the history of the One Ring. We see the Last Alliance of Elves and Men, Sauron's defeat, and the Ring's journey to Gollum. The sweeping visuals, Howard Shore's score, and the weight of lore instantly establish Middle-earth's scale and stakes. It's a masterful setup for a trilogy that would redefine fantasy cinema. For more epic battles, check out The Ultimate Ranking of Lord of the Rings' Most Epic Battles.
4. The Princess Bride (1987)
Rob Reiner's beloved fairy tale opens with a grandfather reading a story to his sick grandson. The boy is skeptical, but as the grandfather begins "The Princess Bride," the film transitions into the tale of Westley and Buttercup. This framing device immediately establishes the film's self-aware humor and heart. It's a warm, clever opening that invites audiences of all ages into a story about true love and adventure.
3. How to Train Your Dragon (2010)
DreamWorks' dragon saga opens with Hiccup narrating his life on Berk, a Viking village plagued by dragons. The montage shows the chaotic dragon raids, the villagers' fear, and Hiccup's clumsy attempts to fit in. The animation is stunning, and the opening perfectly sets up Hiccup's underdog journey. It's a thrilling, emotional start that makes you care about this world immediately. If you're looking for more fantasy world-building, see 10 Fantasy Films That Mastered World-Building, Ranked.
2. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
This classic opens in sepia-toned Kansas, where Dorothy dreams of escaping her mundane life. The tornado sequence is a technical marvel for its time, and the transition to Technicolor Oz is breathtaking. Dorothy's arrival in Munchkinland, with its vibrant colors and musical numbers, instantly immerses viewers in a magical world. It's a timeless opening that has inspired generations of fantasy filmmakers.
1. The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
Yes, it's here again—but the prologue deserves the top spot. It's not just an info dump; it's a cinematic experience. The battle scenes, the fall of Sauron, and the Ring's journey are all rendered with epic scope. The narration by Galadriel adds a mythic quality, and the music swells perfectly. This opening sets the tone for the entire trilogy and remains the gold standard for fantasy movie openings. For more on the series, read Sam Raimi's Forgotten Fantasy Epic 'Legend of the Seeker' Is a Prime Video Gem.
From irreverent comedies to epic adventures, these openings prove that a great fantasy film starts with a great first impression. Which one is your favorite?
