12 Best Magic Movies That You Should Watching Update 04/2024

Best Magic Movies

Check out these fantastic movies about magic, illusion, and necromancy before the release of Doctor Strange in November.

As of this fall, Benedict Cumberbatch will assume the crimson cloak of Doctor Strange and lead the MCU into a realm of magic and mystery. Despite the fact that Scarlet Witch Elizabeth Olsen appeared in Avengers: Age of Ultron, Marvel’s latest film, Strange, isn’t the first time a Marvel film has featured a magician.

In preparation for Marvel’s Doctor Strange, which will be released on November 4th, the following films are recommended. As a reminder, these are not only films that feature magical elements, but ones whose entire plot revolves around magic. Every animated Disney film has my sincere apologies.

We’ve compiled a list of 12 of the best magic movies ever.

1. Now You See Me

Now You See Me

To star in one of the most baffling films in recent memory, Jesse Eisenberg and Woody Harrelson reunited for the first time since Zombieland. The plot of Now You See Me centers on four magicians known as the Four Horsemen who plan and carry out grandiose heists in order to gain entry into a secret society of “real magicians” known as The Eye. Sleight of hand and blink-and-miss it moments are prevalent in the picture.

Among the supporting cast members are Mark Ruffalo, Michael Caine, and Morgan Freeman, all of whom are likely to have earned a big payday for their parts in the film’s supporting cast. It’s hard to believe that, despite the performances and the supernatural components, the writing is anything but inane and ridiculous. No matter how good the popcorn pleasure of Now You See Me may be, there’s nothing beyond its surface. In the near future, we should be able to say the same about the second installment.

2. Willow

While Ron Howard’s Willow isn’t based on Buffy the Vampire Slayer Wiccan, it still has its advantages. Starring Warwick Davis as a farmer named Willow, the film depicts a young girl’s journey to save her kingdom from the evil Queen Bavmorda. While traveling, Willow learns to use his magical powers with the help of brownies, fairies, and Madmartigan, played by Val Kilmer. Because this is a fantasy film, Willow, who is now more self-assured, beats Bavmorda and learns that good always prevails over evil.

At the time, the film was panned, but it has since gained a cult following. James Horner’s score and ILM’s effects make this a fantasy match made in heaven.

3. Practical Magic

Practical Magic

Take a moment to forget about Nicole Kidman’s role in Nora Ephron’s Bewitched remake. When she was just out of Speed 2: Cruise Control, she portrayed a witch. Sandra Bullock in Practical Magic, a rom-com.

The film, based on the novel of the same name, tells the story of two sisters who have magical abilities, but they also come with a curse: every man who falls in love with them will die. Even the most jaded skeptic will find something to keep them entertained. Magical aspects are used effectively to depict a compelling and delightful love narrative in the film, which is hardly a masterpiece.

4. Lord of Illusions

From hideous and horrible to moderately alarming and nonetheless disgusting, Clive Barker’s art is a wide range of emotions. In terms of horror, Hellraiser and Nightbreed are two of the strongest examples to date. The 1995 film Lord of Illusions is one of his lesser-known adaptations. When Scott Bakula portrayed Barker’s renowned Harry D’Amour, it was the first time he appeared on film.

‘The Puritan’ was written and directed by Barker, who also wrote and starred in the picture. While investigating the murder of a psychic, Detective D’Amour discovers that there is more to the case than first appears. The film is enhanced by stunning practical make-up and effects, as well as magic created by Barker.

For those who aren’t willing to put up with a gruesome plot, Lord of Illusions is nonetheless an excellent, darkly enchanting film.

5. Hocus Pocus

Hocus Pocus

The Sanderson Sisters are one of the most popular cult film trios. Three outstanding actresses portray the witches: Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Milder, and Kathy Najimy.

A terrific Halloween movie for kids of all ages, Hocus Pocus is a must-see. It’s impossible not to smile when watching the video, which is full of gaudy clothes, goofy spells, and buck teeth. However, those who have a fondness for the era will find the performances to be perfectly cheesy. You won’t be disappointed if you’re a fan of Sabrina or Halloweentown. Bette Milder sings “I Put a Spell on You” as a bonus for the audience.

6. Stardust

In Stardust, the witches aren’t just a group of gorgeous women who wish to stay that way. This version of Neil Gaiman’s novel also features a pirate (Robert de Niro), unicorns, and a star (a woman) in the form of an entity (Claire Danes). Tristan Thorn (Charlie Cox of Daredevil fame), a man who falls in love with the star and takes control of his own fate, is the focus of the plot.

Mark Strong, Ricky Gervais and Ian McKellen are just a few of the actors who make up the stellar supporting ensemble of Stardust. Gaiman’s magic is bright and vivid, with well-developed worlds and endearing characters. In spite of its lack of focus, Stardust makes for a great family-friendly magical experience.

7. The Craft

The Craft

“The Craft,” one of the most popular witch movies since the 1980s (there were a surprising number), is known for its realistic depiction of spell-casting effects. The Craft is not afraid to get dark and stay there, unlike any other Disney channel movie about witches.

Curses, spells, and more than one murder are all part of the movie, which follows the narrative of four high school girls with extraordinary powers. This group of teenagers is a force to be reckoned with.

The Craft is a joy to watch, with a fantastic cast and crew, and a fantastic soundtrack to go along with it. It was a resounding success, making $55 million off a $15 million budget.

8. The Illusionist

This film was overshadowed by a great 2006 film about magicians starring Edward Norton and Jessica Biel. It’s not that The Illusionist is a horrible film; it’s actually rather good.

Eisenheim (Norton) is an illusionist in Vienna in the late 1800s, and the story follows him as he plots his escape to be with his true love, Sophie (Biel). Sophie and Eisenheim are forbidden to love one other because of their status as duchesses and Eisenheim is a peasant. Using the powers of illusion, the lovers devise a scheme to liberate Sophie from her arranged engagement and the city of Vienna from the tyranny of Leopold.

Scenes of magic in The Illusionist run the gamut from standard stage shows to conjuring ghosts. As of 2014, there have been no updates on the TV show based on the film.

 9. Labyrinth

Labyrinth

Labyrinth is an undisputed fantasy masterpiece that mixes the best of the 1980s. The film is a wonder to behold, starring David Bowie as Jareth the Goblin King, Jim Henson Creature Shop puppets, and stunning settings.

There’s no other way Jim Henson could have conjured the enchantment in Labyrinth. Hoggle and Sir Didymus, the charming fox-knight, are both memorable and practical puppets. Bowie and Jennifer Connelly are the only human actors in the fantastical universe.

Magical monsters abound in the story of Sarah’s mission to save her baby brother Toby from the cruel Goblin King, and the book’s heart is clearly visible. David Bowie’s performance is a given; without him, the picture wouldn’t be what it is today. Check out a midnight showing as soon as possible if you haven’t already.

10. Spirited Away

Chihiro, a little girl lost in the spirit world, is the protagonist of Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. Her parents were turned into pigs by the witch Yubaba, and now she must work in her bathhouse to free them and return home.

A Pixar legend, John Lasseter, helmed the English-language version of the picture. While in Japan, it became the greatest grossing film of all time, defeating Titanic and winning Best Animated Feature Oscars afterwards.

It’s a haunted realm populated by shikigami (ghosts), dragons, witches, and a creature known as “No-Face,” which devours humans. Alice in Wonderland’s simple plot is elevated above past re-treads by the gorgeous animation. One of Studio Ghibli’s greatest works of art, the film is simply magical.

11. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

The only Harry Potter film and book that does not involve Lord Voldemort is frequently regarded as the best. It was the first of the eight films to feature pupils of Hogwarts in clothing other than their robes from filmmaker Alfonso Cuaron. In addition, it created a more darker world for the characters, raising the stakes significantly.

The dementors with their lethal kiss, the gentle giant Hippogriff, and a professor with a full-moon problem add on Rowling’s already vast magical lore. As Sirius Black, Gary Oldman was a wonderful choice, and the young Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, and Rupert Grint have all improved steadily in their performances as a consequence.

It was difficult to choose just one Harry Potter film, but Cuaron’s won out for showcasing some of the most amazing magic moments in the series.

12. The Prestige

The Prestige, despite its lack of actual magic, is the most awe-inspiring film about magic. Following the success of Batman Begins, Christopher Nolan and Christian Bale collaborated again on this 2006 film.

The Prestige portrays the narrative of two magicians competing to pull off the greatest illusion, whereas The Illusionist tells the story of a single magician. The picture, starring Bale, Hugh Jackman, Scarlett Johansson, Michael Caine, and David Bowie, has a number of extremely emotional and clever scenes.

Nolan’s finest narrative twists and magic scenes with sleight-of-hand and escape artistry make this picture stand out beyond the rest. The best illustration of magic is Caine’s speech on how to fool the audience. Make sure to watch this film again before seeing Doctor Strange, or if you’re seeing it for the first time, don’t read the finale online.