What's Your Fantasy?Lists about films, TV series, novels & series, anime, and other media that explore imaginary universes and the characters and forces that live inside them.
Over 300 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Fantasy Shows Based On Books
Voting Rules
Vote up the best TV series based on supernatural or fantasy novels or short stories. No comic book adaptations.
Latest additions: The Changeling, The Gryphon, Lockwood & Co.
Most divisive: The Leftovers
The best fantasy and supernatural series based on books need to not only captivate any old audience but should win over the original fans as well. When fantastical lands and creatures have been living in full color in readers' heads for years, it can be hard to compete as a TV show. Even so, the best fantasy series based on books do more than just bring the magic to life, they bring more folks to the fold who may never have even heard of the books before. Such is the power of the best fantasy adaptations.
Some of the most popular fantasy shows adapted from books are based on book series, such as Game of Thrones, Outlander, and Shadowhunters. The range of shows and styles is beautifully broad when it comes to fantasy book adaptations - with supernatural series like the Sookie Stackhouse books (True Blood), literary classics such as The Legend of Sleepy Hollow or Dracula, and more traditional high fantasy like The Witcher. The faithfulness of the adaptation to the original text may vary for each series but each one of these shows was born from a book.
Which of these shows based on supernatural and fantasy books is the best? Vote up the best fantasy series below - whether because they nailed the adaptation or because they were top-notch, quality programming in their own right.
The Witcher, with its gripping storylines, enthralling visuals, and stellar cast, headed by the enigmatic Henry Cavill, quickly grabbed the attention of fantasy lovers around the world. Following the tale of Geralt of Rivia, this series has consistently delivered enthralling adventures, captivating viewers with its mystifying atmosphere and well-developed characters.
Shadow and Bone, based on Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse novels, boasts an ensemble cast that breathes life into their fascinating characters in a world filled with dark forces and powerful magic. The intricate plot and memorable relationships contribute to making this series a must-watch for epic fantasy enthusiasts.
Actors: Jessie Mei Li, Archie Renaux, Ben Barnes, Freddy Carter, Amita Suman
The Gryphon, set in a far-off land where ancient prophecies shape the destinies of heroes, promises to be a sweeping tale of magic and intrigue. Carefully blending character-driven drama with fantastical elements, this show is set to become an engrossing addition to the realm of fantasy television.
Game of Thrones, an unprecedented cultural phenomenon, etched its name into the annals of television history. With a sprawling cast of riveting characters, breathtaking scenery, and its merciless reputation for shocking twists, this adaptation of George R.R. Martin's novels has cast a wide-reaching spell over viewers seeking an immersive fantasy experience.
Actors: Peter Dinklage, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Lena Headey, Emilia Clarke, Aidan Gillen
His Dark Materials, adapted from Philip Pullman's critically acclaimed trilogy, follows Lyra and Will as they traverse parallel worlds to uncover deeply rooted conspiracies. With an outstanding cast including Dafne Keen and James McAvoy, this visually captivating series has managed to enrapture audiences with its complex and fantastical themes.
The Originals, the spin-off of The Vampire Diaries, transports viewers to New Orleans where power, family, and revenge are at the forefront. Delving into the tumultuous lives of the original vampire family, the Mikaelsons, this show effortlessly integrates elements of romance, betrayal, and dark supernatural forces, leaving a lasting impression on fans of the genre.
Actors: Joseph Morgan, Daniel Gillies, Phoebe Tonkin, Charles Michael Davis, Yusuf Gatewood
Good Omens, a delightful adaptation of Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett's beloved book, explores the unconventional partnership between an angel and a demon as they navigate the impending apocalypse. With Michael Sheen and David Tennant's riveting performances, this series brilliantly captures the book's essence in a way that has charmed both long-time fans and new audiences.
Actors: Michael Sheen, David Tennant, Jon Hamm, Jack Whitehall, Michael McKean
