fantasy films

An article on 'Three Thousand Years of Longing' has a drawing of a blue tie-like object floating among clouds of red and purple

‘Three Thousand Years of Longing’ Leaves You Longing for More

The fantasy romance film, from the director of the ‘Mad Max’ movie franchise, promises enchanting visuals but suffers from a shaky, poorly structured plot.…

September 10, 2022

In an article about the Green Knight, Gawain stands in a yellow scarf, holding an axe, against a lush green and black background.

‘The Green Knight’ Bewitches, Bewilders and Bewitches Again

Anna Hupp, University of Wyoming

David Lowery's film provides what audiences came for — mesmerizing visuals strung together with details that create a fantastical yet dreary world — and more.…

August 21, 2021

An illustration of BB-8 and Yoda from "Star Wars." (Illustration by Olivia Luo, The Ohio State University)

‘Star Wars’ Is Actually a Fantasy Series — Not Science Fiction

Elliot Jackson-Ontkush, Skidmore College

The franchise, which has now existed for more than 40 years, has elements of both genres. However, its tone and themes place it more firmly in the more magical of the two.…

June 19, 2021

‘A Ghost Story’ Uses the Supernatural To Examine Grief and Isolation

Emma Watts, University of Arizona

Perfect for the reality of the pandemic, this heart-wrenching yet hopeful film is a haunting tale of loss and shows the existential crisis that sorrow can spark.…

January 21, 2021

A cat entering a magic portal to another world

The Fantasy Trope of the ‘Magic Portal’ Feels Incredibly Appropriate Right Now

Chase Cutarelli, Columbia University

So-called ‘portal fantasy’ reveals the awe, fear and transformative power of traveling to another world — one that might be appealing in our present dystopia.…

July 3, 2020