Some trends are clear, though as well as having interesting worldbuilding, a society that makes sense (no matter how fantastical it might be), and a hook like a cool magic system or fun locations or institutions that we can imagine ourselves visiting. Ced Yong (author) from Asia on December 13, 2019: Hey Liz. Great worlds live in your mind because they offer your imagination plenty of fuel. Thats exactly what Neverland is for. Its a world full of distinct cultures and societies. A lovely land full of magical creatures, Terabithia was invented by children fleeing from the unhappiness of their daily lives. I bet it would be the case for any movie buff. The interior of Alpha also contains different zones, habitats, and colonies. Wish him luck! Another constant is the Triforce, an artifact of massive power left behind by the Goddesses who created Hyrule.
Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection. No human of sound mind would want to visit any of moons and planets shown in the Alien franchise. In the newest movies, it auto-upgraded itself and gained the ability to suck players into fantastical gaming worlds. Much of the conflicts in the franchise revolve around the taking and using of this artifact, for good or for evil. Jacqueline G Rozell on December 15, 2019: In the Lord of the Rings books I saw the eternal fight between good and evil but I related it more to the personal struggles within each of us; the constant choices we have every day that affect our own lives and the lives of those around us. Michael Ende's Neverending Story (from 1979). From lands of logic and science to realms of sorcery and gods, the human imagination has given us many places we can dream of. It can also be inferred that Hyboria in the movies is awfully warm, given the minimal amount of clothing everyone is wearing. Unlike other alien worlds, the home planet of the Xandarians was a harmonious blend of futuristic buildings and lush parks, with an abundance of water and clear blue skies. Thanks for commenting. Thra was the home planet of the Crystal of Truth, a sentient entity that linked all plants, animals, and lesser crystals on Thra, as well as other crystals throughout The Dark Crystal universe. In other words, you can have your own Fantasia, with flying puppy-like dragons and all, any time, any day. Theres Fortree City (an entire city of treehouses), the Safari Zone (kind of like a natural reserve for pokemon), and the Pokemon Tower (a burial ground for pokemon). In fact, one of the most challenging quests youll do in some of the games is to find a rare, glowing plant. Lastly, the flora of the moon is electrochemically interlinked, thus forming a planet-wide sentience known to the native Na'vi race as Eywa. Within these realmswhich echo the settings of popular games like Uncharted and Tomb Raiderplayers play as gaming stereotypes and can be revived twice before permanent death hits. In the 2009 Terry Gilliam movie, it was central to the wager made between the immortal Doctor Parnassus and the Devil. When you buy through these links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Either way, if you did enjoy your escape, then its only natural that youd want to visit them if you could. Listed below are only the key worlds from the cinematic universe: Greek mythologyhas long been beloved. Who knows? Its more than half a century since the first Ape movie was released in 1968, so theres little need to conceal the twist ending. Take a flat disk of land and balance it atop four elephants. Now they seem so obvious to me. The titular planet in this franchise is none other than Earth; that is, an alternate Earth in the far future in which apes have achieved human-level intelligence while humans have regressed to being mute primitives. Referred to as the Alpha Intergalactic Space Station in the 2017 movie, Alpha is actually Earths International Space Station after it has merged with numerous other space vessels.
One of the most beloved imaginary worlds ever created, the Wizarding World is sure to enthrall audiences for years to come. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Your email address will not be published. A planet that is also a machine, with chunks of the mantle removed to reveal the interior.
Wouldnt Toon Town be your favorite go-to designation on holidays or when youre feeling down? The main reason I added Arrakis is because there's a movie next year. Jim Hensons 1982 masterpiece was a milestone for the animatronics industry, but it wasnt till the 2019 Netflix prequel series that we had an extensive look at the home world of the cruel Skeksis and gentle urRu. Whichever version, Krypton would have been a fascinating place for any human or movie buff to visit, had it not sadly went kaboom. Brandon Sanderson's works including Elantris, Mistborn, Warbreaker, The Stormlight Archive, White Sand, and stories contained in Arcanum Unbounded: The Cosmere Collection. With Narnia, it was easier to relate to the story of Christianity. Your luck may run out and you'll end up fighting for your life in the Games. Narnia has fascinated several generations. In creating Tortall, Tamora Pierce sets up a complex society and a robust religious system that has a significant and believable impact on the mortal world. Or at least pay a visit? Though harsh and aridand notorious for gigantic sandworms that live underneath the desertArrakis is described in the novels as the most valuable planet in the universe. The reason for this is simple: it's the only source of the exotic spice, Melange.
After the Great Mushroom War a thousand years ago, magic has returned and created many fantastical places in Ooo. Ced Yong (author) from Asia on December 15, 2019: I read LotR that way too, which I guess is how most people would, given mythology/religious stories are the earliest tales about personal struggles and good versus evil. Vote for your favorite mythical worlds, and add fantasy world names that you notice are missing. The home of the Nova Corps was a major setting in the first Guardians of the Galaxy movie. In fact, Tolkien made an entire history and mythology that you only barely see in the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Populated by magic, talking animals, and cantankerous dwarves, Narnia is perhaps one of the most well-known worlds in fantasy fiction.
HubPages is a registered trademark of The Arena Platform, Inc. Other product and company names shown may be trademarks of their respective owners. Theres the Candy Kingdom, Ice Kingdom, Fire Kingdom, and the Nightosphere. Some fans of the franchise even consider Alices adventures in Wonderland to be the girls irreversible descent into insanity.
In the city of Five Lights, magic is leaking away, causing streets and buildings to disappear. The purpose of the oceans seemingly irrational actions remains a topic of discussion among literary and film aficionados to this day. Neither is it a prison for the Toons in Who Framed Roger Rabbit? Worldbuilding, consistency, and enough believability for the reader to feel grounded are important, but the best fictional worlds, whatever their genre, have a hook, something unique to them that piques a readers interest and pulls them in.
And magic is the mysterious force keeping the balance. As the story goes, humans in the resource-depleted Earth of Ready Player One became hopelessly addicted to the OASIS for escapism and indulgence.
Regrettably, with no concrete news about a sequel as of 2022, movie buffs might not get to see Azeroth in cinemas anytime soon. Whether the story deals with a parallel world that the protagonist can hop into from our own, or a community that exists alongside, but is unknown by, the everyday world, hidden fictional worlds are fascinating not only because of their fun and interesting quirks, but the excitement and tension caused by their secret status. One of my favorites is the Aiel, a race of superb warriors exhibiting traits from Zulu, Japanese, and Apache culture. While there are deep themes that make fictional worlds compelling, the surface is also important; we love fantasy worlds for the magic systems and fictional societies that hook our attention, or the magical objects and locations that we can imagine interacting with ourselves. Its either that or procrastinating over actually writing his book. Given the chance, were likely to visit them too! Some of the most iconic fantasy worlds ever created are those from books (and many have some pretty fun names as well). What Is The Difference Between Mystery, Suspense, and Thriller Novels. Liz Westwood from UK on December 14, 2019: It's interesting also to see how well these imaginary worlds have stood the test of time, because they don't get out of date. It was only when I read with the intention to see that I noticed the Christian associations. Between 2003 and 2014, movie buffs were treated to modern reinterpretations of classic Greek sagas, such as the remakes of Clash of the Titans (2010) and Immortals (2011). Why do some fictional worlds grab our attention in this way, while others never gain the same level of engagement? Beyond its beauty and fantastical creatures, darkness lurks in every corner: an execution-happy queen, the terrible Jabberwock, and characters who seem a tad out of touch with the world. Writers, directors, game designers, and other creators have made tons of excellent fictional worlds through the years.
Lewis Carrolls Wonderland is the perfect example of an imaginary world that is both fascinating and terrifying. History can be rewritten, but still has a tendency to rhyme. Properly managed, this world would easily be one of the most fascinating and exciting places on Earth to visit. The Pokemon World is an Earth-like planet where creatures called pokemon exist. In some cases, the world at large gets in on recreating these fictional worlds, sometimes in a way that misses the point of the original work lets never forget the ultra-capitalist Capitol Chic that came out alongside the height of The Hunger Games popularity. As with the case for the Star Wars galaxy, fictional planets in the Star Trek universe are too many to include in one list. Additionally, a great fictional world will make the reader think about our own and, ideally, not replicate the bigotry that exists in the real world. A supercontinent and setting for Robert E. Howards Conan the Barbarian stories. Given the average human size and tastiness, no one will survive very long on Isla Nublar or any of the fictitious islands depicted in the Jurassic Park franchise. Heavily inspired by J.R.R. With the upcoming Noah Centineo film, though, movie buffs will likely be treated to memorable visuals of this strange world. Eight Harry Potter movies were released between 2001 and 2011, followed by a trio of films from the Fantastic Beasts serieswith fourth and fifth films in the works. Lyman Frank Baums Oz was one of the very first imaginary worlds to hit the silver screen, and its gorgeous reinterpretations continue to delight.
The Asgardians even fly space vessels and use a mix of futuristic and classic weapons. For just a few moments, we can forget about everything and escape somewhere without worry. Not only is it rich in lore, but the worldbuilding is so detailed that it basically spawned many of the tropes you now commonly find in the fantasy genre. Thank you for signing up!
In Frozen 2, it is revealed that Arendelle is also south of the Enchanted Forest, the latter a place where elemental spirits roam free. Labyrinth has so many memorable characters, sequences, and locations that contribute to Henson's world-building: There are many reasons to love this fictional movie world. Its impossible to include all major planets of the Star Wars universe in a listicle. In the Morrigan Crow books, readers can immerse themselves in the city of Nevermoor, which is full of talking animals, magical hidden markets, and secret buildings that seem to defy the laws of reality, as well as imagining themselves attending this fictional worlds delightful winter festivals or new year celebrations. Jim Hensons 1986 masterpiece introduced viewers to David Bowie's charming Goblin King, Jareth, who lives in a castle, at the center of which is the titular labyrinth. Fictional worlds can find a place in peoples hearts because they fill a particular need of the time (like Suzanne Collinss scathing take on the worst extremes of excess, inequality and media exploitation in her creation of Panem). Ludo, a giant monster, who looks terrifying, but is sweet and gentle. A painting? Middle-Earth is perhaps the most complicated (and most famous) world in fantasy fiction. 40 cinematic universes for the true movie buff. Given the chance, wouldnt you want to live in some of these universes? Be honest: at one point in your life, youve contemplated running away from the responsibilities of adulthood. The desert planet at the heart of Frank Herberts Dune series. From both the books and the movies, Fantasia is a world fueled by human imagination itself.
Personally, Id love to visit just so I can ride a puppy-like dragon who flies. its actually a past and future version of Earth. So will gamers, movie buffs, and social media addicts. There are also, of course, the many Hercules movies released since the 1960s, these ranging from the comical to the valiant to the unbearable.
2022 The Arena Media Brands, LLC and respective content providers on this website. Secret magical worlds are a staple of fiction for a reason; we love feeling like were part of something hidden and special, and the stakes are nail-bitingly high. Sign up to Swords & Spaceships toreceive news and recommendations from the world of science fiction and fantasy. Is it right to consider a factory as an entire world? And if all that wasn't enough, we get Bowie-led musical numbers ("Magic Dance" and "Within You"), in which his crotch figures prominently. C.S. Oz is a fantastical land far away behind the moon and beyond the rain. A delight to visit for all movie buffs. (Teenage me was particularly struck by the way that the powers of the Goddess were invoked in matters such as free contraception and consequences for sexual violence against women and girls, something that Id never seen in fantasy literature before.). It is a little strange that wed like to visit these places, given that theyre full of epic battles, unfamiliar situations, and alien cultures. Faster-than-light travel, cool weapons, aliens, and the Forcethe world of Star Wars has everything that makes science fiction so awesome! While there are stories we adore for characters that we fall in love with, or plots we cant stop thinking about, theres another element to storytelling that always draws readers in: worldbuilding. Literary Travel: 10 Destinations All Book Lovers Should Visit, 25 Mythical Creatures and Where to Find Them in Literature, Exploring Speculative Fiction: Your Guide to this Super-Genre. Given contemporary eco-concerns, this is the perfect time to revisit The Dark Crystal. Required fields are marked *. In Discworld, magic is both the lifeblood of the world, and a simple matter of just paying a bit more attention to things than the majority of people do; the monsters under the bed are real, but can be defeated with an iron poker or a fluffy blanket. Cole is a blog writer and aspiring novelist. That said, Jurassic World suggested how it could possibly workin the form of a massive theme park. The 2016 movie, while not able to show Azeroth in its entirety, shows a decent glimpse into this world. We all owe a debt of gratitude to the best fantasy authors for dreaming up these exotic lands. Neverland was, well, that's still being debated. And while there are raging debates between fandoms on which one of them is the best, I find that the best one is always the one which you form a strong personal connection to. Even the bellies of its mountains are an adventurers dream, hollowed out to form massive subterranean Dwarven cities and forbidden temples. The Inspirations for Famous Fictional Cities, Vote up your favorite fictional universes in literature, film, and TV. Tolkiens Middle Earthand since its inception, expanded to include influences from a myriad of culturesBlizzard Entertainments Azeroth is more familiar to gamers than movie lovers. While Howards stories depicted a fictional world of substantial complexity and history, the movie adaptations painted a simpler savage realm that was rugged and wild. Actually, no human would survive long on any. Lists that explore the creative, visually stunning, most unforgettable worlds in film, TV, literature, comics, video games, and other media.
However, there are many other high fantasy worlds that are a little less known, but are just as compelling. Tamriel is the most well-known continent on the planet of Nirn. You could be a Jedi on one planet, Link the Hyrule savior on another, even Gandalf himself on a rocky moon ruled by Freddy Krueger. The movie versions of J.M.
For a look at fantasy worlds that have avoided creating a cisheterosexist society, check out our article on Queernorm Worlds. Since the 1950s, numerous movies have depicted a rugged and dangerous imaginary world in which the Greek gods walk among men. A bewildering metallic mess that is strangely mesmerizing to behold, the massive space station is home to a myriad of intergalactic species. I dont know about you, but I would probably die within a week of stepping foot on Middle-Earth. Middle Earth and Narnia were explorations of Christian beliefs. As a young reader, I fell completely in love with Tortall, the medieval-ish fantasy world created by Tamora Pierce for her Song of the Lioness series, and explored in later works such as the Wild Magic, Protector of the Small and Tricksters Choice books. These fantasy worlds are not always just from books, but also from movies and fantasy games, too. One of the most compelling things about hidden magical worlds is the need to preserve their secrecy, something that can make the reader feel like this is a secret they share with the characters in their favourite story. Whoever said that books let you travel without moving your feet is absolutely right. Many lifeforms on Pandora additionally possess bioluminescent abilities, allowing them to glow in the dark. Hear me out. In Oz, anything can happen, such as scarecrows coming alive and cats being made from glass. The harsh prison moon featured in 2004s The Chronicles of Riddick.
You would say yes if youve seen any of the TV or movie adaptations of Roald Dahls peculiar novel. That said, 2016s Warcraft: The Beginning gave us an extensive look at this mesmerizing, war-torn fantasy world on the big screen, albeit a look restricted to the eastern continent. Plus, with the franchise owned by Disney, the sequel was a showcase (or show-off) of Disney-owned creations. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia (from 1950), Rick Riorden Percy Jackson and the Olympians, Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland (from 1865).
Lastly, only human children can visit Narnia. Ced's favorite shows and adventures are those that allow him to enjoy the world from his bedroom. Share it in the comments below! Conceptualized by Baum to appeal to children, it was spiced up with hidden elements intended for adults. It is simultaneously exciting and terrifying to explore.
But I acknowledge fans would likely feel Miranda deserves a mention more than entries like Eternia. Divided into nine provinces, Tamriel is a medieval-like place with a diverse range of inhabitants, cultures, and traditions. I consider this proof of Tolkien's skill with allegories. In the first movie, these were games at an arcade. Supermans birth planet of Krypton has been represented in movies in a number of ways. Last but not least, there are the monster-infested Earths, the monsters here usually being zombies. In literary terms, it was Lewis celebration and lament of childhood innocence. Much of the excitement here though, is developing your own pokemon team, challenging gyms, and becoming the Pokemon League Champion. I enjoyed the books but not with the passion with which I have the Lord of the Rings. It is more accurate to describe the Imaginarium as an illusionary trap, although its victims would feel otherwise. Or figure out the meaning behind the Cheshire Cats every riddle. The fantasy realm of the Nordic Gods received a modern update in Marvel Cinematic Universes Thor franchise. For a deep dive into how fantasy worlds are created, try The Art of Worldbuilding. The entire surface of the planet is covered by a sentient ocean, one completely beyond human comprehension and capable of manifesting reality. lets never forget the ultra-capitalist Capitol Chic that came out alongside the height of, 10 Cozy Mysteries for a Gentle Thrill (+ a Bonus! Youll find humans, elves, orcs, lizard-like Argonians, and the feline Khajit. Tolkiens Middle-Earth, it features tons of races, cultures, and lore that any fantasy fan will gladly jump into.
