The Percy Jackson franchise, based on the bestselling book series by Rick Riordan, consists of two films, The Lightning Thief (2010) and Sea of Monsters (2013). The movies star Logan Lerman as Percy Jackson, a teenager who discovers he is the descendant of a Greek god and becomes entangled in an ongoing war between the Greek gods.
The two Percy Jackson films have been praised for the cast’s performances, the twisting plots, and the incorporation of Greek mythology. Like the source material, these movies explore themes of identity, godliness, family, and friendship as Percy is forced to embrace his powers and destiny.
Made on a combined budget of $185 million, the two Percy Jackson films collectively grossed more than $420 million at the box office. Unfortunately, plans for a third film were scrapped. If you’re looking for films like Percy Jackson to watch, then keep reading as we break down 25 films that should be on your list.
1. 300
Directed by Zack Snyder and based on the 1998 comic series by Frank Miller and Lynn Varley, 300 is a historical action film that was released in 2007. The film, set in 490BC, follows King Leonidas of Sparta (played by Gerard Butler) as he leads an army of 300 men to battle the Persians.
Made on a budget of $65 million, the film grossed more than $450 million at the box office. The film was a critical and commercial success. When it first premiered in front of an audience of 1700 people, it received a standing ovation. The film has been praised for its visual storytelling.
If you enjoyed the Greek mythological influences in the Percy Jackson films, you’re sure to love this adaption of the epic Greek battle. There’s even a sequel, 300: Rise of an Empire, for you to check out!
2. Assassin’s Creed
Directed by Justin Kurzel and based on the videogame of the same name, Assassin’s Creed is a dystopian action film that was released in 2016. The film follows Callum Lynch (Michael Fassbender) as he uses the memories of Aguilar de Nerha, his ancestor who was a Master assassin, in order to gain his skills to take on a sinister secret society.
The film, which also stars Marion Cotillard and Jeremy Irons, was made on a budget of $125 million and grossed $240 million at the box office. While the film received mixed reviews from critics, many referred to it as one of the best video game-to-movie adaptions.
If you loved watching Percy Jackson unravel the mystery of his family lineage, you’re sure to love watching Callum Lynch discover and embrace his own ancestry in order to defeat evils beyond his comprehension.
3. The Chronicles of Narnia
The Chronicles of Narnia is a fantasy series of films that were based on the novels of the same name by C. S. Lewis. Three of Lewis’ novels were adapted for the screen: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe (2005), Prince Caspian (2008), The Voyage of the Dawn Treader. The films follow a group of children as they explore the fantastical world of Narnia.
Collectively, the three films have grossed more than $1.5 billion at the box office. The series, which was a critical and commercial success, had plans for a fourth film. However, these plans were later scrapped as Netflix acquired the rights to a new adaption of the series.
If one of your favorite aspects of the Percy Jackson films was seeing Percy and his friends plunged into a world that they never knew existed, then this is the perfect franchise for you to binge next!
4. Gods of Egypt
Directed by Alex Proyas, Gods of Egypt is a fantasy action film about the titular Egyptian deities that was released in 2016. Heavily inspired by ancient Egyptian mythology, this film follows a mortal’s quest to defeat Set, the god of darkness, who has seized control of Egypt. The ensemble cast includes Gerard Butler, Brenton Thwaites, Chadwick Boseman, and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau.
If you loved seeing the various Greek gods brought to cinematic life in the Percy Jackson movies, then you’re sure to enjoy seeing Egyptian mythology get a similar cinematic treatment!
5. Harry Potter
The Harry Potter film series, based on the novels by J.K. Rowling, consists of eight films that were released between 2001 and 2011. The films follow the adventures of Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe) and his friend Ron (Rupert Grint) and Hermione (Emma Watson) as they attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
The Harry Potter film franchise is the third highest-grossing film series of all time, with the eight films grossing a combined $7.7 billion at the box office. Not only was this franchise commercially and critically successful, but it was also a pop culture phenomenon that has spawned a spin-off film series, numerous theme parks, and more.
If you loved seeing Percy Jackson arriving at Camp Half-Blood to hone his abilities, then you’re sure to love watching the adventures of Harry Potter unfold as he attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.
6. Hercules
Directed by Brett Ratner, Hercules is a historical action-adventure film that was released in 2014. Starring Dwayne Johnson as the titular Greek demigod, who is sought out by the King of Thrace (John Hurt) to defeat a tyrannical warlord.
Made on a budget of $100 million, the film grossed more than $244 million at the box office. While the film received mixed reviews from critics, many praised the adaption as the most down-to-earth depiction of Zeus’ mythical son. If you’re looking for another riveting movie about the son of a Greek god, then this is the movie for you!
7. The Huntsman: Winter’s War
Directed by Cedric Nicolas-Troyan, The Huntsman: Winter’s War is a fantasy action film that was released in 2016. The film functions as both a prequel and sequel to 2012’s Snow White and the Huntsman. The film follows the titular Huntsman, played by Christ Hemsworth, as he is caught in a war between two wicked sisters, Freya (Emily Blunt) and Ravenna (Charlize Theron).
Made on a budget of $115 million, the film grossed $165 million at the box office. While the film received mixed reviews, many praised the chemistry of the cast and the stunning visuals in the film. If you enjoyed watching Percy Jackson battle fantastical monsters, this is the perfect movie for you!
8. Inkheart
Directed by Iain Softley and based on the novel of the same name by Cornelia Funke, Inkheart is a fantasy adventure film that was released in 2008. The film follows a girl who discovers that her father (Brendan Fraser) has the magical ability to realize fictional characters. Things take a turn when they inadvertently free a villain, threatening their very existence.
Made on a budget of $60 million, the film grossed $62 million at the box office. While the film received predominantly mixed reviews from critics, however many praised the central concept’s execution. If you’re looking for a fantasy film with as much heart as Percy Jackson, you need to check out Inkheart.
9. Jack the Giant Slayer
Directed by Bryan Singer, Jack the Giant Slayer is a fantasy adventure film that was released in 2013. Starring Nicholas Hoult in the titular role, the film is based on the fairytales “Jack the Giant Killer” and “Jack and the Beanstalk”. The film also stars Stanley Tucci, Ian McShane, and Eleanor Tomlinson.
Made on a budget of $195 million, the film grossed $197 million at the box office. Though the film did not perform as well as hoped at the box office, many critics praised the film’s originality and rousing visual storytelling. The film received a Saturn Awards nomination for Best Fantasy Film. If you loved watching Percy and friends battle monsters beyond their wildest dreams, then this unique take on the titular fairytale is more than worth a watch!
10. Journey to the Center of Earth
Directed by Eric Brevig, Journey to the Center of Earth is a science-fiction fantasy adventure movie that was released in 2008. The film follows a scientist, Trevor (Brendan Fraser), who is on a quest to find out what happened to his missing brother. What he discovers, however, is beyond his wildest imagination.
Made on a budget of $60 million, the film grossed $244 million at the box office. Based on the novel by Jules Verne, which was released in 1864, many critics praised the film’s ability to balance an old-fashioned story while updating it with spectacular modern visuals.
If you’re looking for a feel-good movie with stunning visual effects like the Percy Jackson films, then Journey to the Center to the Earth is just the film for you. There’s even a sequel, Journey 2, for you to check out.
11. Jumanji
Based on the novel of the same name by Chris Van Allsburg, Jumanji is a fantasy adventure film that was released in 1995. The film revolves around two children who find a magical board game. When they begin playing it, they release Alan Parrish (Robin Williams) and many fantastical threats that can only be stopped by playing the game until the end.
Made on a budget of $65 million, the film grossed more than $260 million at the box office. The film was a critical and commercial success, with many praising the acting by Williams and the special effects. Two sequels were released: Welcome to the Jungle (2017) and The Next Level (2019).
Jumanji is a classic for all ages! If you’re looking for a fantastical world to get lost in during movie night, then these films based on the titular board game will do the trick!
12. King Arthur: Legend of the Sword
Directed by Guy Ritchie, King Arthur: Legend of the Sword is a fantasy action film that was released in 2017. Starring Charlie Hunnam in the titular role, the film revolves around Arthur as he embraces his true legacy after pulling the sword from the stone.
If you loved watching Percy embrace his destiny in the Percy Jackson films, then you’re to love watching Arthur embrace his own legacy in this modern retelling of the classic tale of King Arthur.
13. The Maze Runner
Based on the novel of the same name by James Dashner and directed by Wes Ball, The Maze Runner is a dystopian action-adventure film that was released in 2014. The film follows Thomas (Dylan O’Brien) as he finds himself trapped in a maze that will require him to join forces with those trapped with him.
Two sequels were released, namely The Scorch Trials (2015) and The Death Cure (2018). Collectively, the three films in this trilogy have grossed more than $948 million at the box office. Not only was this franchise a commercial success, but it was also a critical success, with many praising the acting and original premise.
While there are no fantasy elements present within The Maze Runner, this film is sure to appeal to fans of Percy Jackson, who are looking for a riveting adventure film about a group of teenagers who are put to the ultimate test.
14. Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children
Based on the novel of the same name by Ransom Riggs and directed by Tim Burton, Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children is a fantasy adventure film released in 2016. The film follows Jacob (Asa Butterfield) as he attempts to unravel a mystery that leads him to the titular home run by Miss. Peregrine (Eva Green).
Made on a budget of $110 million, the film grossed $296 million at the box office. Many critics praised the film for skillfully blending Burton’s signature style and striking visuals with the novel’s source material. The film was nominated for the Saturn Award for Best Fantasy Film in 2017.
Like Percy, Jacob must unravel the mystery of his past in order to save the world in Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. This is the perfect movie for fans of Percy Jackson!
15. Mortal Engines
Based on the novel of the same name by Philip Reeve and directed by Christian Rivers, Mortal Engines is a steampunk adventure film that was released in 2018. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, two unlikely allies meet in order to put an end to a conspiracy. The film’s cast includes Hera Hilmar, Robert Sheehan, and Hugo Weaving.
While the film did not perform as well as hoped at the box office, the author of the source material highly praised the film. Reeves said that Rivers did a fantastic job in adapting his novel into a visually impactful film, despite certain creative changes that were made.
If you loved seeing Percy Jackson brought to life on the big screen, then you may want to read the book by Philip Reeve before watching this stunning visual adaption of his novel Mortal Engines.
16. Pirates of the Caribbean
Pirates of the Caribbean is a series of fantasy pirate films that are based on eponymous Walt Disney’s theme park attraction. To date, five theatrical films have been released between 2003 and 2017. The films predominantly follow the adventures of Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp), one of the nine Pirate Lords of the Seven Seas.
Made on a combined budget of $1.3 billion, the five films have collectively grossed more than $4.5 billion at the box office. Not only is this a critically acclaimed film series, but it’s the fourteenth highest-grossing film series of all time.
If you’re looking for a series of films that perfectly blends adventure with fantastical elements, then you’re sure to love watching the many adventures of Captain Jack Sparrow and his swashbuckling cohorts.
17. Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
Based on the titular videogame franchise and directed by Mike Newell, Price of Persia: The Sands of Time is a fantasy action film that was released in 2020. With the use of a magical dagger that can reverse time, a fugitive prince (Jake Gyllenhaal) must defeat a villain that threatens to destroy the world.
Made on a budget of $150 million, the film grossed more than $336 million at the box office. While the film received mixed reviews from critics, many praised the film as one of the better video game-to-film adaptions to be released. Fan of Percy Jackson are sure to love this spectacular fantasy film.
18. Race to Witch Mountain
Based on the novel of the same name by Alexander Key and directed by Andy Fickman, Race to Witch Mountain is a science fiction adventure film that was released in 2009. The film follows a cab driver (Dwayne Johnson) who sets out to protect two siblings with paranormal powers (AnnaSophia Robb and Alexander Ludwig).
Made on a budget of $50 million, the film grossed $106 million at the box office. The film was Disney’s first film of 2009 to open at #1 in the box office. Furthermore, while the film received mixed reviews, many praised the chemistry of the film’s cast.
If you enjoyed seeing Percy embrace his unique abilities in the Percy Jackson films, then you’re sure to enjoy the tale of two siblings with paranormal powers in Race to Witch Mountain.
19. The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
Based on the poem of the same name by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and directed by Jon Turteltaub, The Sorcerer’s Apprentice is a fantasy action film that was released in 2010. The film follows Balthazar Blake (Nicholas Cage) as he must train a physics prodigy, Dave (Jay Baruchel), in his magical arts to prevent the return of the sinister Morgana (Alice Krige).
Made on a budget of $150 million, the film grossed more than $215 million at the box office. Though the film received mixed reviews from critics, many praised the likable and talented cast and the spellbinding visuals.
Many fans of Percy Jackson and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice have wondered who would win in a duel: Percy Jackson or Balthazar Blake. While there isn’t a definitive answer to this question, you’ll need to watch The Sorcerer’s Apprentice in orderto decide who would win this dream duel.
20. The Spiderwick Chronicles
Based on the series of novels by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black and directed by Mark Waters, The Spiderwick Chronicles is a fantasy adventure film that was released in 2008. The film follows three siblings as they move into the dilapidated Spiderwick Estate, where they find themselves pulled into an alternate world. The film’s cast includes Freddie Highmore and Mary-Louise Parker.
Made on a budget of $90 million, the film grossed more than $164 million at the box office. The film was a critical success, with many critics praising the visual effects and acting, particularly Highmore as twins Simon and Jared.
Like the world Percy lives in, there’s more than meets the eye when it comes down to Spiderwick Estate. If you’re looking for a fantasy film where these hidden truths come to light, then The Spiderwick Chronicles is a must-watch!
21. …of the Titans
Clash of the Titans (2010) and Wrath of the Titans (2012) are two fantasy action films based on the 1981 film Clash of the Titans. The films follow Perseus, a demigod and the son of Zeus, as he keeps the peace between heaven and hell.
Made on a combined budget of $275 million, the two films grossed more than $795 million at the box office. Though plans for a third film, Revenge of the Titans, were scrapped, the films were both commercial successes. The visual effects and action sequences were highly praised by critics.
If you couldn’t get enough of the mythological Greek influences and connections in the Percy Jackson films, then you’ll love seeing Greek mythology brought to life in Clash of the Titans and Wrath of the Titans.
22. Troy
Based on Homer’s ancient Greek poem The Iliad and directed by Wolfgang Petersen, Troy is a historical war film that was released in 2004. The film follows Troy as it is attacked by the united Greek forces. The film’s cast includes Brad Pitt, Eric Bana, Orlando Bloom, Diane Kruger, and Brian Cox.
Made on a budget of $175 million, the film grossed more than $497 million at the box office. The film was nominated for numerous accolades, including an Academy Award. Critics praised the film’s acting – particularly that of Pitt as Achilles – and the film’s ability to entertain the viewer.
While the Greek gods do not take part in the battler of Troy, this film is sure to appeal to those who loved the Greek themes present within the Percy Jackson films.
23. Underworld
Underworld is a series of fantasy horror films that currently spans five films released between 2003 and 2016. The franchise follows the lives of various characters who find themselves caught in a battle between vampires and werewolves. The franchise stars Kate Beckinsale as Selene.
With a combined budget of $207 million for the five currently released films, the Underworld franchise has grossed more than $539 million at the box office. While the films have received a mixed response from critics, the series has developed a loyal fanbase. A television continuation is currently in production.
In the Percy Jackson novels and films, the Underworld plays an important role. If you loved watching Percy and friends explore this realm, then you’re sure to love this fantastical horror franchise about the netherworld.
24. Warcraft
Based on Blizzard Entertainment’s videogame franchise of the same name and directed by Duncan Jones, Warcraft is a fantasy action film that was released in 2016. The film revolves around a war between Orcs and humans on the planet of Azeroth. The film’s cast includes Travis Fimmel, Paula Patton, and Dominic Cooper.
Made on a budget of $160 million, the film grossed more than $435 million at the box office. Though the film received predominantly mixed reviews from critics, it went on to become the highest-grossing videogame adaption to ever be released. If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world fantasy adventure film, then look no further than Warcraft.
25. Zathura: A Space Adventure
Based on the novel by Chris Van Allsburg and directed by Jon Favreau, Zathura: A Space Adventure is a science-fiction fantasy film that was released in 2005. The film revolves around two brothers who are drawn into an adventure that spans time and space when they begin playing a mysterious board game.
The film’s cast includes Josh Hutcherson, Dax Shephard, and Kristen Stewart. Like Jumanji, which is also based on a book by Chris Van Allsburg, Zathura is the perfect movie for anyone looking for an out-of-this-world adventure brought to cinematic life.
Sources:
IMDB: Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
IMDB: 300
IMDB: Assassin’s Creed
IMDB: Gods of Egypt
IMDB: Hercules
IMDB: The Huntsman: Winter’s War
IMDB: Inkheart
IMDB: Jack the Giant Slayer
IMDB: Journey to the Center of the Earth
IMDB: Jumanji
IMDB: King Arthur: Legend of the Sword
IMDB: The Maze Runner
IMDB: Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children
IMDB: Mortal Engines
IMDB: Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
IMDB: Race to Witch Mountain
IMDB: The Sorcerer’s Apprentice
IMDB: The Spiderwick Chronicles
IMDB: Clash of the Titans
IMDB: Troy
IMDB: Warcraft
IMDB: Zathura: A Space Adventure