Must-See 1970s Fantasy Movies for Everyone

The fantasy films of the 1970s were a unique blend of imagination, darkness, surrealism, and whimsy, surpassing the simpler fantasy of the previous decade. This era merged fantastical imagerydragons, wizards, distant realmswith the countercultural vibes of hippie idealism and the flamboyance of heavy metal. Hippies sported Frodo Lives pins, and rock fans painted dragons on their vans, signaling that high fantasy was creeping into mainstream culture. Children increasingly played "Dungeons & Dragons," and magical characters began appearing on Saturday morning TV shows.

Although big studios were hesitant to invest heavily in fantasy films, the decade still produced memorable works, many of them animated. While directors like Martin Scorsese and Stanley Kubrick were making serious, adult-oriented dramas, lighter fantasy films quietly flourished, offering magical adventures that remain enjoyable for viewers of all ages even today. Here are some standout 1970s fantasy films that everyone should experience at least once.

The Phantom Tollbooth (1970)

Adapted from Norton Justers young adult novel, The Phantom Tollbooth was directed by Abe Levitow and Chuck Jones, with live-action segments by Dave Monahan. The story follows Milo, a bored young boy, who discovers a magical tollbooth that transports him to an animated world built entirely on ideas. He explores the Kingdom of Numbers and the Kingdom of Letters, encounters a swamp full of the lethargic Doldrums, and befriends a talking dog and a boastful insect called the Humbug. Milo must rescue the banished fairies Rhyme and Reason by navigating a series of whimsical, intellectually playful challenges. The films clever wordplay and visual gags make it both entertaining and thought-provoking, appealing to imaginative minds of all ages.

The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1973)

Gordon Hesslers The Golden Voyage of Sinbad brings the classic sailors adventures to life with Ray Harryhausens legendary stop-motion effects. Sinbad discovers a magical golden amulet and faces the evil wizard Koura while meeting the enchanting Princess Margiana. The films imaginative sequences, including a fight against a living statue of Kali, combine the spirit of Middle Eastern folklore with Hollywood spectacle. Despite some outdated casting, the movie remains a thrilling fantasy adventure that captures the magic of 1970s cinema. Notably, Tom Bakers role as Koura led to his iconic casting as the Doctor in Doctor Who.

The Twelve Tasks of Asterix (1976)

The animated film The Twelve Tasks of Asterix introduces global audiences to the beloved French comic heroes Asterix and Obelix. Set in 50 B.C.E. Gaul, the film follows the duo as they face twelve increasingly bizarre challenges imposed by Caesar, who hopes to determine if the Gauls are divine. From out-running Romes fastest runner to navigating an absurd bureaucracy, the film combines slapstick humor, clever wordplay, and historical references. The comedic tone and inventive scenarios make it a timeless family-friendly fantasy adventure.

The Hobbit (1977)

The 1977 animated adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkiens The Hobbit, directed by Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass, introduced audiences to Bilbo Baggins in a visually distinctive style. Bilbo is reluctantly recruited by a group of dwarves to journey to Lonely Mountain and confront the dragon Smaug. The voice cast included Orson Bean as Bilbo, John Huston as Gandalf, and Richard Boone as Smaug, with contributions from numerous animation legends. With a folk-inspired soundtrack and imaginative character design, this adaptation offers a charming and unique take on Tolkiens world, notable for its whimsical and slightly eerie aesthetic.

KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park (1978)

The rock band KISS brought their larger-than-life personas to the screen in KISS Meets the Phantom of the Park, a TV film blending fantasy, comedy, and action. The story features an evil engineer who uses robots to attack the band, who in this universe have superpowers and remain in costume throughout. Gene Simmons can breathe fire, and each band member embodies a fantastical alter ego. Shot at Six Flags Magic Mountain, the film combines absurdity with sheer entertainment, creating a fun, over-the-top fantasy experience.

These films showcase the inventive and playful spirit of 1970s fantasy cinema. Their imaginative storytelling, memorable characters, and visual creativity continue to enchant audiences decades later.

Author: Chloe Ramirez