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If you’ve ever found yourself wishing your Hogwarts letter had just gotten lost in the mail, you’re not alone. As someone who grew up utterly obsessed with the Harry Potter books and movies, I’m constantly chasing that same magical feeling—where the world opens up just a bit wider and anything feels possible.
This list is for the fantasy lovers, the chosen-one fans, and anyone who still gets goosebumps when the Hedwig’s Theme plays. Whether you’re craving magical boarding schools, epic quests, found families, or just the nostalgic comfort of a richly built world, these movies (and a few shows!) like Harry Potter are absolute must-watches.
Table of Contents
Magical Schools & Chosen Ones
If your favorite part of Harry Potter was the whole “you’re a wizard, Harry” moment, this is the section for you. These magical movies and shows feature spellbinding schools, powerful young heroes, and chosen ones learning to navigate their destiny. Whether you’re missing the halls of Hogwarts or the thrill of uncovering hidden powers, these picks are the closest you’ll get without a letter from an owl.
Percy Jackson & the Olympians Series (2023-Current)
If you loved the mix of mythology, magic, and mischief in Harry Potter, the Disney+ Percy Jackson series captures that same spark. With a snarky, loyal trio, secret identities, and a magical summer camp for demigods, it’s basically Camp Half-Blood meets Hogwarts. Plus, this reboot finally gives fans the adaptation we deserved.
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
If Hogwarts was just a bit darker and Tim Burton got his hands on it, you’d end up with something like this. It’s all eerie time loops, magical abilities, and kids who are anything but ordinary. The world feels just off-kilter enough to scratch that magic school itch—minus the butterbeer.
The House With a Clock in Its Walls (2018)
This one’s pure cozy magic. Think wizard mentors, enchanted mansions, creepy clocks, and spooky spells—with Jack Black and Cate Blanchett bringing serious whimsy and warmth. It’s great for younger viewers, but there’s plenty here for nostalgic adults, too.
The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008)
Hidden realms, magical creatures, and a mysterious field guide—this one delivers that “there’s more to this world than meets the eye” feeling in spades. It’s got a similar sense of danger and discovery that made Harry Potter so thrilling to watch as a kid.
Fantastic Beasts films (2016-)
This one’s for Potter fans who want more of the Wizarding World, even if it’s messier than the original. Set decades before Harry, it explores magical creatures, dark wizards, and the politics of the magical world—with a suitcase full of monsters that gives serious Hagrid energy.
The Magicians (2015-2020)
Think Hogwarts—but make it college-aged and way more chaotic. The Magicians follows a group of students at Brakebills University as they train in magic and unravel dark, otherworldly threats. Be warned: it’s much more adult than Harry Potter, but fans of magical academia will be hooked.
Merlin (2008-2012)
Before Harry discovered Hogwarts, there was Merlin discovering Camelot. This BBC fantasy series reimagines Arthurian legend with a young warlock secretly mastering magic while protecting a future king. If you loved the magical school setting and destiny-driven friendships in Harry Potter, Merlin delivers that same blend of heart, humor, and high-stakes adventure—with a medieval twist.
Whimsical Fantasy Adventures
Looking for that wide-eyed wonder you felt when Harry first stepped into Diagon Alley? These magical adventures are full of charm, quirky characters, and fantastical settings that feel straight out of a storybook. If you’re in the mood for enchanting worlds and lighthearted escapism, this section will scratch that Potter-shaped itch.
The Chronicles of Narnia Trilogy (2005-2010)
A magical wardrobe, talking animals, and an epic battle between good and evil—Narnia feels like stepping into another version of the wizarding world. It’s all about siblings discovering their destiny in a land ruled by myth and magic, and yes, it will give you serious Goblet of Fire goosebumps.
Stardust (2007)
This one’s a hidden gem that deserves more love. With witches, falling stars, sky pirates, and romance, Stardust feels like Harry Potter meets The Princess Bride. It’s whimsical, wildly creative, and full of charm—and it doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Bridge to Terabithia (2007)
This one’s not full-on magic, but it feels magical in that bittersweet, imaginative way Harry Potter fans will understand. It’s about two kids who escape into a made-up world that becomes very real to them—and while it’ll break your heart, it also reminds you of the power of imagination and friendship.
Ella Enchanted (2004)
A lighthearted fairytale romp with a modern twist, this movie is pure fun. Think magical curses, ogres, talking books, and a reluctant heroine who slowly learns to stand up for herself. It’s a great pick if you’re looking for something sweet, funny, and full of heart.
Alice in Wonderland (2010)
Tim Burton’s spin on Wonderland is surreal, shadowy, and visually stunning. While not directly comparable in story, the magical chaos and colorful cast make it a solid pick for Potterheads craving a trip down the rabbit hole.
The Neverending Story (1984)
A book within a book, a magical world in peril, and a young boy destined to save it—sound familiar? This nostalgic fantasy classic delivers pure childhood wonder and is perfect for fans of stories that blur the line between fiction and reality.
Epic Worldbuilding & Mythology
If you loved getting lost in the magical lore of the wizarding world, this section is all about sweeping fantasy epics, ancient prophecies, and richly imagined realms. These shows and movies like Harry Potter dive deep into complex mythologies and larger-than-life quests, perfect for fans who enjoy high-stakes storytelling with a side of magic.
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy (2001-2003)
If you haven’t ventured into Middle-earth yet, now’s the time. The Lord of the Rings is the blueprint for epic fantasy—wizards, dark lords, mythical races, and a perilous quest to save the world. It’s more intense than Harry Potter, but the themes of courage, friendship, and found family feel beautifully familiar.
The Golden Compass (2007)
A brave girl, a parallel universe, soul-bonded animal companions, and a powerful secret the adults are desperate to suppress? Yep, very Potter-esque. While the movie only covers book one of His Dark Materials, it still captures a similar blend of wonder and darkness.
His Dark Materials (2019-2022)
In a parallel world where souls exist as animal companions, a brave girl unravels a conspiracy that spans dimensions. It’s heady, beautiful, and full of magic and meaning—perfect for fans of Harry Potter’s darker, more philosophical themes.
Willow (1988)
A reluctant hero, a magical prophecy, and a fantastical world at war—Willow is pure ’80s fantasy at its best. With a strong dose of humor and heart, it’s a cult favorite for a reason.
Coming-of-Age with Magic
One of the most powerful parts of Harry Potter is how it grows with its audience—and these magical coming-of-age stories do the same. From emotional journeys to mystical transformations, these picks explore the intersection of growing up and discovering you’re capable of far more than you imagined. Expect magic, heartache, and a whole lot of wonder.
A Wrinkle in Time (2018)
This one leans more into sci-fi fantasy, but it’s rooted in the same themes: a young protagonist, a missing parent, and a journey across fantastical realms. Meg’s emotional arc—learning to trust herself—makes this a great fit for fans who loved Harry’s internal struggles and triumphs.
Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
This is definitely a darker choice (rated R, and not for younger viewers), but if you appreciated the more mature, eerie tones of Deathly Hallows, this one will blow you away. It’s haunting, visually stunning, and blends fairy tale magic with grim reality in a way that lingers long after the credits roll.
The Sorcerer’s Apprentice (2010)
A college student accidentally stumbles into a world of magic and is forced to train under a cranky but powerful sorcerer. It’s very “reluctant wizard-in-training” energy, and while it’s a little cheesy, it’s also just fun and fast-paced—with plenty of spell-flinging.
Matilda (1996)
A bookish girl with telekinetic powers and a deep love for learning? Matilda is basically Hermione if she were raised by the Dursleys full-time. Heartwarming, hilarious, and empowering.
Dark Fantasy & Found Family Vibes
As Harry Potter got older, so did we—and with it came darker themes, complex character arcs, and powerful found-family dynamics. These movies and fantasy shows offer a more mature spin on the magical formula, blending fantasy with emotion, mystery, and a dash of danger. If you loved the intensity of Deathly Hallows or the bonds between the trio, you’ll feel right at home here.
The Umbrella Academy (2019-2024)
What if Hogwarts was a dysfunctional boarding school for superpowered misfits? The Umbrella Academy follows seven adopted siblings raised to save the world—whether they want to or not. With time travel, family drama, and world-ending stakes, this series is perfect for older Potterheads who grew up loving magical chaos, but now want something edgier and a little weirder.
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina (2018-2020)
If you ever wished the wizarding world came with a darker twist, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina might be your next binge. This modern reimagining of the classic Archie Comics character follows teenage witch Sabrina Spellman as she balances mortal life with magical duties at a hellish academy. It’s gothic, witchy, and full of the kind of rebellious energy you’d expect from a Slytherin in fishnets.
Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004)
Unlucky orphans, over-the-top villains, and a world that’s both bizarre and oddly bureaucratic—this one’s perfect for fans who enjoyed the darker, more eccentric side of the wizarding world. It’s weird, witty, and feels like it exists in the same quirky multiverse as Diagon Alley.
The Hunger Games series (2012-2015)
If your favorite part of Harry Potter was watching the trio go from wide-eyed kids to battle-worn revolutionaries, Katniss’s journey will resonate hard. While it’s dystopian instead of magical, the themes of resistance, loyalty, and growing up too soon are very much in the same emotional lane.