Best Mythology & Folklore Movies and TV Shows

Last updated: August 13, 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.

2000 NR (75 minutes)

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Mulan Poster Image

MOVIE

Mulan

age 5+

Disneyfied but dignified tale of Chinese warrior.

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.

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.

1963 G (79 minutes)

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Fantasia Poster Image

MOVIE

Fantasia

age 6+

Breathtaking animation feat -- with some creepy visuals.

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.

1963 G (179 minutes)

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Moana Poster Image

MOVIE

Moana

age 6+

Memorable musical with a Pacific Islander lead, some scares.

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.

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.

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.

1997 G (92 minutes)

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Onward Poster Image

MOVIE

Onward

age 7+

Original, heartfelt sibling adventure about love and loss.

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.

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.

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.

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.

2006 NR (78 minutes)

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Brave Poster Image

MOVIE

Brave

age 8+

Mother-daughter princess tale has some very scary scenes.

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.

1986 PG (101 minutes)

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