What do you do after you’ve watched Harry Potter for the hundredth time? You go looking for more magical worlds to get lost in, of course! ✨ Whether it’s the thrill of wand-waving battles, enchanted creatures, or coming-of-age tales wrapped in fantasy, there’s something about the Harry Potter series that’s hard to replace. But good news—there are other films that capture that same sense of wonder and adventure!
In this guide, I’ve conjured up a list of the best magical movies similar to Harry Potter, perfect for fans who crave spellbinding stories and unforgettable characters. Some are classics, some are underrated treasures, but all of them bring the same spellbinding magic. 🎥⚡
Table of Contents
1. Why We Love Harry Potter and What Makes a Movie ‘Magical’
There’s just something about the world of Harry Potter that sticks with you, right? Maybe it’s the spellcasting, the whimsical creatures, or that cozy-yet-dangerous vibe of Hogwarts that makes you want to grab a wand and hop on the next train to the wizarding world. But beyond the magic tricks and flying broomsticks, what draws us in are the deeper themes—the friendship, the bravery, the fight between good and evil, and the idea that even the most unlikely person can change the world. ✨
When we look for movies similar to Harry Potter, we’re really searching for that same spark—stories with richly built worlds, powerful character growth, and a dash of mystery and wonder. A “magical” movie doesn’t just show you spells—it makes you feel something extraordinary. It invites you into a realm where anything is possible, where the rules are different, and where courage, love, and destiny intertwine. That’s the kind of magic that keeps us coming back again and again.
2. Top 10 Magical Movie Franchises for Harry Potter Fans
So, if you’re craving more magical adventures after finishing the Harry Potter series (again), you’re in luck—there are plenty of movie franchises that bring the same kind of wonder, mystery, and epic storytelling to the screen.
From the snowy lamp-lit forests of Narnia to the misty mountains of Middle-earth, each of these franchises delivers its own brand of magic. Some are set in magical schools, others involve ancient prophecies and hidden powers, but they all have that same spark that makes you feel like anything is possible.
Whether you’re into talking animals, shape-shifting creatures, or just love a good magical showdown, these ten movie franchises are a must-watch for every Potterhead ready to discover a new obsession.
2.1. The Chronicles of Narnia
The Chronicles of Narnia series, based on C.S. Lewis’s beloved books, is a magical journey filled with talking animals, epic battles, and young heroes destined to save a mystical land.
Much like Harry Potter, the films center around children who are thrust into a magical world, learning about their own hidden strengths and the deep connections between good and evil. The themes of friendship, courage, and destiny make Narnia feel just as enchanting as Hogwarts, with both worlds offering immersive settings, unforgettable creatures, and plenty of heart-stopping adventure.
2.2. Fantastic Beasts series
If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you simply can’t miss the Fantastic Beasts series. Set in the same magical universe, these films explore the rich history of wizards before Harry ever entered the scene.
With its engaging new characters like Newt Scamander and its thrilling plots about dark magic and hidden societies, Fantastic Beasts brings back that same sense of wonder and danger. Fans of Harry Potter will enjoy seeing the roots of familiar spells and creatures while uncovering a whole new chapter of magical history.
2.3. Percy Jackson & the Olympians
Much like Harry Potter, Percy Jackson is about an unlikely hero discovering his magical heritage and embarking on a journey to save the world.
In Percy’s case, he’s a demigod, the son of Poseidon, who learns about the existence of the Greek gods and the dangers their world faces. Filled with magical creatures, powerful prophecies, and a group of loyal friends, Percy Jackson is a perfect choice for fans who enjoy the blend of teen adventure and ancient mythology. If you loved the Triwizard Tournament part of Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire, you’ll definitely appreciate the thrilling challenges Percy faces in his quest to stop evil.
2.4. The Lord of the Rings / The Hobbit
Both The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit series are packed with rich lore, magical beings, and epic quests—making them a natural fit for any Harry Potter fan.
With powerful wizards like Gandalf and Saruman, mythical creatures such as elves and orcs, and the ever-present battle between good and evil, these films echo the magical and adventurous spirit that fans of Harry Potter adore. Whether it’s the grand, sweeping landscapes or the intimate moments of character development, The Lord of the Rings captures the same heart and magic that makes the wizarding world so compelling.
2.5. The Spiderwick Chronicles
However, if you’re looking for a magical adventure that blends mystery, danger, and a touch of whimsy, The Spiderwick Chronicles is perfect for you. Much like Harry’s experience, the Grace children find themselves plunged into a world of magical creatures and dark forces that they never imagined existed.
The film has a similar tone, with the protagonists uncovering a hidden world full of strange and dangerous beings. Spiderwick shares Harry Potter’s sense of wonder and discovery but with a more fantastical twist—featuring fairies, goblins, and other magical creatures that will surely captivate any fan of the wizarding world.
2.6. Eragon
If what you loved most about the Harry Potter Movies were the magical creatures, more specifically the dragons, then Eragon is the right choice for you.
Eragon brings a world of dragons, magic, and prophecy that feels right at home next to Harry Potter’s universe. Much like Harry, Eragon is thrust into a magical conflict when he discovers that he is the last of a long line of dragon riders.
With a mysterious mentor, a dark villain, and an ancient prophecy, Eragon shares many of the same tropes that fans love about the Harry Potter series. The film’s epic adventure and the hero’s journey of self-discovery are key reasons why it feels like a natural extension of the magical world you adore.
2.7. The Golden Compass / His Dark Materials
Based on Philip Pullman’s His Dark Materials series, The Golden Compass brings a fresh magical perspective with its exploration of parallel universes and daemons—animal companions that represent a person’s soul.
Fans of Harry Potter will appreciate the film’s magical atmosphere, strong female protagonist, and the overarching battle between good and evil. Much like Harry Potter, the story revolves around the discovery of hidden knowledge and the fight against oppressive forces, making it an exciting and thought-provoking watch for anyone who loves a good magical adventure.
2.8. The Hunger Games
Although The Hunger Games leans more toward dystopian fiction, it shares many themes with Harry Potter—especially the idea of an ordinary young person rising up to challenge an oppressive regime.
Katniss Everdeen’s struggle against the Capitol mirrors Harry’s fight against Voldemort in many ways, particularly the elements of rebellion, destiny, and sacrifice. The relationship between Katniss and her friends, as well as the world-building in Panem, will resonate with any Harry Potter fan looking for a new kind of magical hero’s journey.
2.9. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children
If you love Harry Potter for its strange, mysterious world and quirky characters, then Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children is a must-see.
Directed by Tim Burton, this film explores the lives of children with extraordinary abilities who live in a time loop, hidden from the outside world. Much like Hogwarts, Miss Peregrine’s home is a sanctuary for the peculiar, full of secrets, magical powers, and even a dark villain lurking in the shadows. Fans of Harry Potter will appreciate the film’s offbeat charm, magical intrigue, and the sense of a magical community that exists in plain sight—but only for those who know where to look.
2.10. The Mortal Instruments / Shadowhunters
If you’re drawn to Harry Potter’s world of magical societies and secret worlds hidden from regular people, then The Mortal Instruments (and its Shadowhunters TV adaptation) is right up your alley.
Set in a hidden world of demon hunters, magic, and ancient artifacts, this franchise has all the action, suspense, and complex characters that Harry Potter fans love. Just like in Harry Potter, you’ll find a magical community operating under the radar of the non-magical world, with dangerous adventures and deep personal struggles. The series’ supernatural elements and the eternal battle between good and evil will definitely hit the same notes for fans who crave more of the magical world.
3. Underrated Magical Movies You Might’ve Missed
However, sometimes, the most enchanting stories are the ones that fly under the radar. You know—those hidden gems you stumble across and think, “Why haven’t I heard of this before?!” While they might not have the massive fandoms or billion-dollar budgets of the big franchises, these underrated magical movies are bursting with charm, creativity, and heart.
Whether it’s a book-loving hero who brings characters to life (Inkheart), a clock-ticking mystery in a magical house (The House with a Clock in Its Walls), or an enchanted fairytale with a twist (Ella Enchanted), each film on this list offers something refreshingly different while still scratching that Harry Potter itch. These movies may not have made it to every theater near you, but they absolutely deserve a spot on your magical watchlist. Trust me—you’re in for some delightful surprises!
3.1. Inkheart
Inkheart may not be as well-known as other fantasy films, but its concept will instantly resonate with Harry Potter fans. The story follows a man named Mo, who has the magical ability to bring characters from books to life by reading aloud.
Much like Harry, the characters in Inkheart find themselves thrust into an unfamiliar, magical world, and the stakes are incredibly high. The film blends adventure, mystery, and family bonds in a way that feels very much in tune with Harry Potter. If you loved the magical books and creatures in J.K. Rowling’s series, Inkheart offers an equally enchanting world where reading becomes a gateway to powerful, life-changing magic.
3.2. The House with a Clock in Its Walls
This quirky, heartwarming magical film is a true hidden gem. Set in a mysterious mansion, the movie follows a young boy named Lewis who discovers that his uncle (played by Jack Black) is a wizard.
As he uncovers magical secrets hidden within the house, Lewis learns about bravery, friendship, and the importance of family—similar to the core themes in Harry Potter. The mix of magical creatures, eccentric wizards, and mysterious spells gives The House with a Clock in Its Walls that same sense of whimsy and danger that Harry Potter fans crave. If you’re drawn to the combination of magical school-like adventures and the battle between good and evil, this movie is a must-watch.
3.3. Ella Enchanted
If you’re a Harry Potter fan who loves a bit of humor mixed with magic, Ella Enchanted is a charming, underrated pick. This whimsical tale follows Ella, a young girl who is cursed with obedience, making her follow every command she’s given.
The film has the same sense of wonder, adventure, and magical transformation that Harry Potter fans love, with a cast of quirky characters, a dangerous villain, and a strong-willed protagonist who must break free from a magical curse. Just like Harry, Ella embarks on a journey of self-discovery, proving that magic isn’t just about spells—it’s about inner strength and the bonds we form with others.
3.4. Stardust
Stardust is a whimsical fantasy adventure that blends romance, magic, and daring quests in a way that Harry Potter fans will immediately appreciate. The story follows a young man named Tristan who ventures into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved, only to discover the star is a woman with powers of her own.
Much like Harry Potter, Stardust is filled with magical beings, thrilling adventures, and the discovery of hidden strength in the face of danger. It has that same sense of wonder and the coming-of-age journey we see in Harry’s story, making it a must-see for anyone who loves magic and romance intertwined.
3.5. The Green Knight
The Green Knight is a visually stunning and somewhat experimental take on the Arthurian legend, mixing magic, adventure, and myth in a way that will captivate Harry Potter fans.
The film follows Sir Gawain, a young knight who must face the mysterious Green Knight in a test of courage and honor. With its magical creatures, ancient prophecies, and themes of self-discovery and bravery, The Green Knight has the same deep, mythological roots that Harry Potter taps into. Its dark, atmospheric storytelling and magical elements will transport fans to a world filled with wonder, danger, and the possibility of fate.
4. Animated Magical Movies with Harry Potter Vibes
Don’t let the animation fool you—some of the most powerful and magical stories ever told are drawn frame by frame. Animated films have a unique way of creating rich, imaginative worlds that feel just as real and immersive as anything in live-action. And if you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll find a surprising number of animated adventures that tap into those same themes of magic, growth, and wonder. 🎨🪄
Some are light and whimsical, others are darker and more thought-provoking—but all of these movies deliver that same magical feeling that made you fall in love with Harry Potter in the first place. So, if you’re in the mood for something visually stunning and emotionally rich, these animated picks are pure magic.
4.1. Kiki’s Delivery Service
Kiki’s Delivery Service is a magical, heartwarming tale from Studio Ghibli that shares the same themes of self-discovery and growth found in Harry Potter. The story follows Kiki, a young witch-in-training who moves to a coastal town to begin her training.
Much like Harry, Kiki faces the challenges of mastering her magical powers, making new friends, and finding her place in a world that can be both enchanting and difficult. The magical atmosphere, charming characters, and themes of courage and personal growth will instantly resonate with any Harry Potter fan who enjoys watching a young hero navigate the magical world while learning important life lessons.
4.2. Howl’s Moving Castle
Another magical masterpiece from Studio Ghibli, Howl’s Moving Castle is a fantasy film brimming with whimsy, mystery, and powerful magic.
Similar to Harry Potter, the film features a magical school of sorts, with Howl, a powerful wizard, living in a fantastical moving castle that roams across enchanted lands. The world-building in this film is enchanting, and much like the wizarding world, it’s filled with strange creatures, powerful spells, and dark forces. Fans of Harry Potter will love the themes of transformation, both physical and emotional, as well as the strong connections between its characters. It’s a beautifully crafted magical story that will transport Harry Potter fans to a world full of wonder and enchantment.
4.3. The Secret of Kells
The Secret of Kells is a visually stunning animated film set in a mystical version of medieval Ireland. Much like Harry Potter, it follows a young protagonist, Brendan, who embarks on an adventure to protect an ancient, magical book from dark forces.
The film’s art style is uniquely magical, drawing the viewer into a world of ancient wisdom, hidden knowledge, and powerful magic—elements that will feel familiar to any Harry Potter fan. Brendan’s journey of bravery, self-discovery, and protecting something greater than himself echoes many of the same themes found in Harry’s own adventures at Hogwarts. With its blend of magic, adventure, and ancient mythology, The Secret of Kells offers a rich, immersive experience that Harry Potter fans will appreciate.
4.4. Coraline
Coraline is a dark, magical animated film that will strike a chord with fans of Harry Potter who enjoy the more eerie and mysterious side of magic. Based on Neil Gaiman’s novel, the film follows Coraline, a young girl who discovers an alternate world that appears perfect, only to find out that it is controlled by a sinister force.
Like Harry’s journey into the wizarding world, Coraline embarks on a quest to face the unknown and confront evil. The magical realism, otherworldly creatures, and themes of bravery, family, and the fight between good and evil will resonate with any Harry Potter fan who enjoys a good magical mystery with a darker twist.
4.5. The Tale of the Princess Kaguya
This breathtaking Studio Ghibli film is unlike anything you’ve seen before, combining magical realism with Japanese folklore. While it may not feature wizards or traditional magic, The Tale of the Princess Kaguya has the same deep emotional resonance that Harry Potter fans will appreciate.
The story follows a mysterious girl who appears from a bamboo stalk and grows up to be a beautiful princess, all while magical forces shape her destiny. Much like Harry Potter, the film explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of choice, along with visually magical sequences that capture the wonder of the unknown. Its imaginative storytelling and mystical elements will deeply resonate with anyone who’s loved the fantastical adventures of Harry Potter.
4.6. Wolfwalkers
Wolfwalkers is an incredibly unique and magical animated film that combines adventure, folklore, and environmental themes. Set in a mystical version of Ireland, it follows a young girl named Robyn who befriends a mysterious girl who can transform into a wolf.
The film is rich in magic and mystery, with the forest and its creatures playing a key role in the story. Fans of Harry Potter will appreciate the magical transformations, the theme of discovering hidden worlds, and the friendship between the two strong-willed girls at the heart of the story. Wolfwalkers also shares Harry Potter’s sense of wonder and the importance of understanding magic’s deep connection to nature and the world around us.
4.7. The Sword in the Stone
Disney’s The Sword in the Stone offers a classic take on magic, following the young Arthur as he is mentored by the wizard Merlin. The whimsical elements of magic, along with Arthur’s growth from a humble boy into the legendary King, echo Harry Potter’s journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Much like Harry, Arthur learns valuable life lessons from his magical mentor, Merlin, who uses quirky and inventive ways to teach him about the world and his future destiny. The blend of magic, prophecy, and adventure makes The Sword in the Stone a great pick for fans who enjoy watching a young hero discovering his potential and navigating a world full of magical surprises.
5. Tips for Creating Your Own Magical Movie Marathons
Ready to turn a regular night into a full-blown magical experience? Creating your own movie marathon is the perfect way to dive headfirst into a world of wands, quests, and enchanted creatures—all from the comfort of your couch. Whether you’re flying solo, planning a cozy night with friends, or hosting a full-on themed event, a little planning goes a long way in making it truly magical.
Start by picking a theme—maybe it’s magical schools, chosen ones, or fantasy creatures—and build your lineup around that. Mix in well-known favorites with a few hidden gems to keep things exciting. Want to go full Hogwarts? Whip up some themed snacks like chocolate frogs or “butterbeer” lattes, dim the lights, and throw on your house colors. You can even add in trivia rounds or costume challenges between movies to keep everyone engaged. And don’t forget to check which streaming platforms the movies are on ahead of time—nothing kills the vibe like hunting for a link mid-marathon! 🧙♀️🍿🪄
Your Next Magical Journey Awaits
Let’s be real—there’s no true replacement for Harry Potter. But that doesn’t mean the magic has to end when the credits roll on Deathly Hallows Part 2. The world is full of spellbinding stories, fantastical realms, and unforgettable characters just waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re craving epic battles, mystical creatures, or the comfort of a magical school setting, the movies on this list will cast a spell on you.
So go ahead—bookmark this guide, start building your next movie night lineup, and share it with your fellow Potterheads. There’s an entire universe of magic out there, and this is just the beginning. After all, as Dumbledore once said, “Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light.” Let these movies be that light. 🌟
