The Ultimate Ranking of the Top 10 R-Rated Fantasy Films

Below are some of the highest-ranking R-rated fantasy movies, ranging from very good to the very best, that cater to adult audiences.

10. 'The Fall' (2006)

Image via Roadside Attractions

A beautifully crafted and visually stunning fantasy film, The Fall fearlessly delves into darker themes. Despite not yet reaching the status of a true classic, it also does not carry the freshness or buzz of a recent release. Currently unavailable on streaming platforms and out of print in physical format, the film finds itself in a limbo. However, this should change as it possesses countless merits. The Fall employs a framing device similar to The Princess Bride, where an adult recounts a fantastical tale filled with breathtaking adventures and powerful emotions to a child. In contrast to the beloved classic, The Fall explores more violent and intense themes. While not the most graphic or heavy R-rated fantasy movie, it does ultimately earn its rating.

9. 'The Northman' (2022)

Image via Focus Features

The Northman, directed by Robert Eggers, ventures away from folk horror and psychological thriller themes that made him renowned. Instead, Eggers presents a grand-scale, brutal action-fantasy epic. The story revolves around an unwavering pursuit of revenge, following a man whose father was murdered by his own uncle when he was just a child. This tragic event shapes him into a determined adult, consumed by the desire for vengeance.

Inspired by the legend of Amleth and its influence on Hamlet, The Northman fearlessly incorporates a substantial amount of violence and a notable body count. While not as fantastical as typical fantasy films, the protagonist's quest aligns with the genre, making it unsuitable for family viewing due to its frequent scenes of violence and sexual content.

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8. 'The Green Knight' (2021)

While Disney's The Sword in the Stone still holds its popularity as a movie about King Arthur, not all films with similar storylines are suitable for family viewing. The original legends involving King Arthur and the diverse characters of the Knights of the Round Table can delve into intense and mature themes, as demonstrated in films like the recent, yet underappreciated, The Green Knight.

The protagonist of The Green Knight is Sir Gawain, the nephew of King Arthur. After encountering the eponymous creature, he embarks on a year-long quest. This fantasy film is eerie and unsettling, making it unsuitable for younger audiences. However, mature viewers who appreciate unconventional and occasionally challenging content should consider giving it a chance. Stream it on Fubo.

7. 'The Crow' (1994)

Image via Dimension Films

The Crow is a cult classic from the 1990s and is considered one of the greatest supernatural thriller/fantasy/action movies of all time. The story revolves around vengeance, but with a unique twist of the protagonist seeking revenge for his own violent death, as well as that of his fiancée, after being miraculously resurrected. The film fearlessly embraces its dark and violent nature, which may come across as aggressive to modern audiences with its unapologetic '90s aesthetic and music. However, this bold and confident approach, combined with a captivating narrative, stunning visuals, and intense action sequences, creates a compelling and unforgettable cinematic experience.

Watch on Fubo

6. 'Excalibur' (1981)

Excalibur, often regarded as the ultimate R-rated fantasy film, holds a compelling argument for being the greatest of its kind. It caters to a mature audience and delves into the Arthurian legend, offering a vivid portrayal of King Arthur's tumultuous life and the brutal era in which he reigned. The narrative explores his ascension to power and the perilous quest for the Holy Grail.

It's the type of daring film you'd expect from director John Boorman, whose movies were consistently uncompromising and occasionally controversial (as seen in Deliverance and particularly with Exorcist II: The Heretic). It's fair to say then that Excalibur may not appeal to everyone's tastes, but it's a courageous and unconventional film that deserves recognition for being one of the most audacious and bloodiest fantasy films in history.

5. 'The Shape of Water' (2017)

Image Via Searchlight Pictures

Known for his affinity for dark and unsettling fantasy, Guillermo del Toro is also drawn to gothic horror, and even has a fondness for colossal robots battling monstrous creatures in epic clashes. With The Shape of Water, the acclaimed director presented another adult-oriented fantasy film, albeit with a slightly sweeter touch compared to his typically gloomier works. The film garnered significant accolades, particularly at the prestigious Academy Awards.

The movie revolves around a janitor employed at a peculiar scientific laboratory in the 1960s. Her life takes a drastic turn as she becomes inexplicably attracted to a mysterious fish-man being subjected to experiments. The Shape of Water targets mature audiences with its profound themes, provocative scenes, and occasional graphic violence. Nonetheless, it is an unquestionably heartfelt and distinct film, establishing itself as one of the most remarkable fantasy movies of recent times.

Stream now on DirecTV.

4. 'The Double Life of Véronique' (1991)

The Double Life of Véronique adopts a subdued approach to its fantastical elements, prioritizing its romantic drama aspect. However, the story unfolds in a peculiar and ethereal manner, instilling a sense of fantasy through its exploration of doppelgängers - two unrelated women who share an uncanny resemblance.

Renowned as one of Krzysztof Kieślowski's most acclaimed works, The Double Life of Véronique diverges from his Three Colors trilogy by delving into mystical and otherworldly themes. Nevertheless, the film's grounding in everyday, relatable drama ensures that it remains emotionally resonant, even when tackling enigmatic and unexplainable phenomena.

Watch on Criterion Channel

3. 'The Lighthouse' (2019)

Image via A24

Preceding The Northman by three years, Robert Eggers helmed The Lighthouse, a remarkable entry in both the R-rated fantasy and R-rated horror genres. Gradually growing more bizarre and fantastical, it initially unfolds as a captivating blend of psychological drama and dark comedy. The narrative revolves around two lighthouse keepers driven to madness by the overwhelming solitude of their isolated abode on a minuscule island, devoid of any companionship.

Both Robert Pattinson and Willem Dafoe deliver their finest performances to date in this film. They effortlessly excel in scenes that range from funny to horrifying, intense, and bizarre. The Lighthouse may be small in scale, but its ambition is evident throughout its runtime. It masterfully blends various genres, making it undeniably successful. Consequently, it is arguably Eggers's best film yet.

Stream now on Showtime.

2. 'Fanny and Alexander' (1982)

Ingmar Bergman's most renowned fantasy film is also his most famous overall: The Seventh Seal, released in 1957. However, for the purpose at hand, it cannot be considered, as it initially did not receive a rating in the United States and was later classified as TV-PG, according to IMDb. Yet, Fanny and Alexander, another beloved Bergman film that explores fantasy, did receive an R-rating, making it eligible here.

Fanny and Alexander is an audacious and grand film that stands among the finest of the 1980s. It weaves a tale about a large family and the profound impact of an unforeseen tragedy on various lives. Presented through the perspectives of the film's eponymous characters, a young boy and his sister, Fanny and Alexander effortlessly incorporates supernatural elements and ghostly figures. This blend of fantasy makes it a captivating choice for both fans of family dramas and enthusiasts of alluring low fantasy movies.

Watch on Criterion Channel

1. 'Pan's Labyrinth' (2006)

Estudios Picasso presents an mesmerizing dark fantasy film directed by the talented Guillermo del Toro - Pan's Labyrinth. Set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War, this gripping tale follows a young girl who seeks solace in a hauntingly surreal realm, in order to evade the clutches of her sinister stepfather, the notorious Captain Vidal.

Pan's Labyrinth offers a blend of twisted creatures, evil acts in both imagined and real worlds, and moments of intense violence. Due to its unsettling and somber nature, this film is likely to disturb and sadden many adult viewers. Therefore, it is advisable for younger audiences to wait until they are older before watching. However, for mature viewers, this movie is an absolute must-see in the fantasy genre. It captivates as a modern fairytale, potentially ranking among del Toro's greatest works and possibly the finest R-rated fantasy film of all time.