The 5 Best Urban Fantasy Movies, Ranked
Urban fantasy combines elements of fantasy with a city or large town setting. This sub-genre emphasizes urban environments, contrasting with traditional fantasies set in vast wildernesses. Despite this difference, urban stories can be just as engaging, often focusing on themes of darkness and claustrophobia.
This genre stands out, especially as a focal point for filmmaking in recent years. Below are the five best urban fantasy movies that exemplify the charm and thrill of this genre.
5. The Crow (1994)
The Crow is a renowned film from 1994 featuring Brandon Lee. The movie is notorious due to the tragic incident of Lee's accidental death during filming, involving a prop gun loaded with live ammunition. Despite the backdrop of this tragedy, it remains a memorable film that honors Lee’s legacy.
The plot centers on Eric, a rock musician played by Lee. He is murdered one Devil’s Night but returns from the grave seeking revenge on his killers. Armed with supernatural powers, this tale merges urban fantasy with superhero elements, solidifying The Crow as a timeless cult classic.
4. Onward (2020)
Pixar's Onward is a fresh entry notable for its unique urban setting. The film voices Tom Holland as Ian and Chris Pratt as Barley, two elven brothers on a heartfelt quest to resurrect their father for one day.
Set in a completely distinct universe primarily in a vast city, Onward showcases modern technological advances while embracing urban fantasy tropes. This film offers a different experience compared to other Pixar productions, capturing the essence of the genre, which delighted both critics and audiences alike.
3. The City of Lost Children (1995)
The City of Lost Children emerged as a cult classic, initially overlooked upon its release. This French film combines sci-fi and fantasy, offering an odd yet mesmerizing collection of themes. It tells the story of an aging scientist who kidnaps children, enchanting them into deep sleep to harvest their dreams in a quest for youth.
The film goes beyond typical fantasies, providing social critiques wrapped in its narrative structure. While the plot may seem baffling, it offers a compelling commentary on society and consumerism. Its unsettling yet thought-provoking themes pay off for viewers intrigued by its complex ideas.
2. What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
Directed by Taika Waititi, What We Do in the Shadows has gained acclaim for its humor and originality. It serves as the inspiration for a TV series launched five years later, created by co-director Jemaine Clement. The movie cleverly mixes comedy, horror, and fantasy within a mockumentary format.
A camera crew follows four vampire roommates in Wellington, New Zealand, capturing their supernatural misadventures. While the series is acclaimed, the film stands out as a prime showcase of Waititi’s talent. It ranks among his best works, highlighting his creative brilliance.
1. The Thief of Bagdad (1940)
The Thief of Bagdad is a remarkable Technicolor film that has been underestimated despite critical acclaim and extensive influence. The story follows Ahmed, an ancient Sultan deposed by the sorcerer Jaffar. Ahmad’s exile leads him to collaborate with Abu, a skilled thief, on his mission to regain the throne.
This film has left a lasting mark, inspiring characters and elements in Disney’s Aladdin and the Prince of Persia video game franchise. Praised as one of the greatest films of its era, its stunning visuals contribute to its status as the premier urban fantasy film without a doubt.
Earlier, SSP told about all Harry Potter movies: ranked from worst to best.
