Best Mythology & Folklore Movies and TV Shows

Last updated: July 17, 2026

Long before Hollywood started making cinematic universes, mythology and folklore had already mastered the art of epic, interconnected storytelling. From Greek gods to fearsome creatures, these tales transport us into worlds filled with epic quests and ancient magic. We put together a legendary (no pun intended) list of the best mythology & folklore inspired movies and TV shows, drawing from cultures all around the world—perfect for sparking your kids' imagination. For more great picks, check out our Best Mythology Books for Kids and Teens and Best Fantasy Movies.

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Kirikou and the Sorceress Poster Image

MOVIE

Kirikou and the Sorceress

age 5+

Enchanting folk tale with toddler hero, for all ages.

February 18, 2000 2000 NR (75 minutes)

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Mulan Poster Image

MOVIE

Mulan

age 5+

Disneyfied but dignified tale of Chinese warrior.

June 19, 1998 1998 G (90 minutes)

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My Neighbor Totoro Poster Image

MOVIE

My Neighbor Totoro

age 5+

Beautifully animated fantasy about friendship fit for all.

June 14, 1988 1988 G (86 minutes)

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The Sword in the Stone Poster Image

MOVIE

The Sword in the Stone

age 5+

Delightful classic brings King Arthur legend to life.

December 25, 1963 1963 G (79 minutes)

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Fantasia Poster Image

MOVIE

Fantasia

age 6+

Breathtaking animation feat -- with some creepy visuals.

November 13, 1940 1940 G (120 minutes)

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Hercules Poster Image

TV

Hercules

age 6+

Better-than-average spin-off has heart AND brawn.

Toon Disney Kids' Animation (1995)

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Jason and the Argonauts Poster Image

MOVIE

Jason and the Argonauts

age 6+

A stop-motion animation masterwork.

June 19, 1963 1963 G (179 minutes)

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Moana Poster Image

MOVIE

Moana

age 6+

Memorable musical with a Pacific Islander lead, some scares.

November 23, 2016 2016 PG (113 minutes)

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Moana 2 Movie Poster: Moana and Maui stand on a boat, looking ready for adventure

MOVIE

Moana 2

age 6+

Teamwork, courage overcome danger in engaging sequel.

November 27, 2024 2024 PG (100 minutes)

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Coco Movie Poster: Miguel and Hector stand back to back on a path made out of marigold petals

MOVIE

Coco

age 7+

Stunningly animated, poignant tribute to family and culture.

November 22, 2017 2017 PG (109 minutes)

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Hercules Poster Image

MOVIE

Hercules

age 7+

Lighthearted, but scary stuff is too much for littlest kids.

June 27, 1997 1997 G (92 minutes)

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Onward Poster Image

MOVIE

Onward

age 7+

Original, heartfelt sibling adventure about love and loss.

March 6, 2020 2020 PG (102 minutes)

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Song of the Sea Poster Image

MOVIE

Song of the Sea

age 7+

Beautiful Irish tale explores myths, sibling relationship.

December 19, 2014 2014 PG (93 minutes)

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The Book of Life Poster Image

MOVIE

The Book of Life

age 7+

Beautifully animated film has some scary imagery.

October 17, 2014 2014 PG (95 minutes)

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The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep Poster Image

MOVIE

The Water Horse: Legend of the Deep

age 7+

Predictable family fantasy not as good as book.

December 24, 2007 2007 PG (113 minutes)

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Wonder Woman Poster Image

TV

Wonder Woman

age 7+

Campy '70s superhero show has mild action, strong woman.

Me-TV Action (1975)

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A Hero's Journey: The Making of Percy Jackson and the Olympians TV Show: actor playing Percy peeks out behind a movie slate

TV

A Hero's Journey: The Making of Percy Jackson and the Olympians

age 8+

Fun peek into behind-the-scenes Percy magic; heavy promo.

Disney+ Reality TV (2024)

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Asterix and the Vikings Poster Image

MOVIE

Asterix and the Vikings

age 8+

Animated French tale has cartoon violence, some laughs.

May 19, 2006 2006 NR (78 minutes)

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Brave Poster Image

MOVIE

Brave

age 8+

Mother-daughter princess tale has some very scary scenes.

June 22, 2012 2012 PG (100 minutes)

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Labyrinth Movie Poster: David Bowie holds a glass orb

MOVIE

Labyrinth

age 8+

Surreal coming-of-age fantasy -- with Jim Henson puppets.

June 27, 1986 1986 PG (101 minutes)

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