The 1980s were a phenomenal time for fantasy films.

This era also saw increased film budgets and new, experimental technology.

Return to Ozisan underappreciated filmthat is closer to the themes and tones ofL.

Blended image showing characters from Return to Oz, The Dark Crystal, and Conan

Custom Image by Nimesh Perera

Frank Baum’s books than the 1939 MGM classic.

Dragonslayerisa major departure from your typical Disney film, with morally gray characters and plenty of death and destruction.

The effects inThe NeverEnding Storydemonstrate theversatility and creativity of 1980s fantasy.

Dorothy and a group of characters in Return to Oz

Image via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

Who Framed Roger Rabbitwas not the first film to featurelive actors interacting with 2D characters.

Buttercup is later chosen as the bride of the pompous Prince Humperdinck (Chris Sarandon).

NEXT:10 Fantasy Movies That Are Almost as Good as Lord of the Rings

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Vermithrax Pejorative spreading its wings and breathing fire in Dragonslayer.

Image via Paramount Pictures

Dragonslayer 1981 Movie Poster

Craig Warnock as Kevin in Time Bandits

Image via HandMade Films (Distributors) Ltd.

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A boy next to the dragon Flakor in The NeverEnding Story

Image via Warner Bros. Pictures

The Neverending Story Movie Poster

Mrs. Brisby, voiced by Elizabeth Hartman, looks up at Nicodemus, voiced by Derek Jacobi, as he gestures behind her in The Secret of NIMH

Image Via MGM

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Jen’s Mystic Master stares over a cauldron in ‘The Dark Crystal’.

Image via Universal Pictures

The Dark Crystal Movie Poster

Roger Rabbit handcuffed to Bob Haskins as Eddie Valiant in Who Framed Roger Rabbit.

Image via Buena Vista Pictures

who framed roger poster

Ariel (Jodi Benson) holds hands with Prince Eric (Christopher Daniel Barnes) in ‘The Little Mermaid’.

Image via Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

The Little Mermaid 1989 Poster

Arnold Schwarzenegger in Conan the Barbarian wielding a sword and shirtless.

Image via Universal Pictures

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Westley about to kiss Buttercup while laying on the grass in The Princess Bride

Image via 20th Century Studios

Movie

The Princess Bride