MovieChat Forums > General Discussion > Best Realistic Fantasy Movies

Best Realistic Fantasy Movies


Of course, I'm looking for movies between the 30s-70s, and the first movie that came to mind was "The Swimmer" - everything that appears on the screen is realistic.

reply

Oh, I loved The Swimmer! I didn't really think of it as a fantasy. I suppose it is though. It is in his head but we, the audience aren't really sure until later.

I was thinking of The Haunting Of Julia, 1977. It stars Mia Farrow.
Some would believe she's haunted, but I think it was all in her mind after losing her daughter the way she did.

reply

How would you define 'realistic'? (I'm afraid I've never seen The Swimmer)

If you mean ones that are almost normal, except for small magical elements that pop up? Fantasies closer to magical realism? In that case, I really like 'Exterminating Angel' (1962). It's a Spanish movie, and the title makes it sound more violent than it actually is. It actually takes place at a dinner party in a mansion, and the rest is best seen for yourself. You can probably find a subtitled version free online somewhere.

reply

Where everything on the screen could happen in real life.

reply

Then that is precisely the antithesis of fantasy.

reply

Maybe he meant realistic but fictional, instead of being based on a true story.

reply

I don't know if you would count this, but since you did bring up The Swimmer, I'd add The King of Comedy. It's realistic, but talk about living in a fantasy world!

reply

LOL... I bet that's happened before.. I've had the movie on VHS for over 20 years.... I actually love dramas the most!

reply

Well, I'd say The King of Comedy is a very dark comedy with very dramatic undertones.
I love a bit of everything, but horror or suspense is my favorite. Anything weird! That's me. LOL!

reply

Wizard of Oz

reply

I haven't saw this in many years. Thanks for the reminder!

reply