The world of fungi has long fascinated filmmakers, leading to a variety of films that explore their mysterious and often misunderstood existence. From psychedelic trips to ecological documentaries, here are the 10 best films about fungus, both psychedelic and otherwise, ranked for your viewing pleasure:

1.Fantastic Fungi (2019) – This stunning documentary by Louie Schwartzberg dives into the beauty and critical ecological role of fungi. Narrated by Brie Larson, it showcases the work of mycologist Paul Stamets and features mesmerizing time-lapse photography.

2.Planet Earth: Fungi (2006) – In this episode of the acclaimed nature series, “Planet Earth,” Sir David Attenborough guides viewers through the fascinating world of fungi, demonstrating their crucial role in Earth’s ecosystems with breathtaking cinematography.

3.Magic Medicine (2018) – A film that explores the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelic mushrooms, following trials that test psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) for treating depression.

4.Matango (1963) – Also known as “Attack of the Mushroom People,” this Japanese horror film directed by Ishirō Honda follows a group of castaways who encounter mutagenic mushrooms on a deserted island.

5.The Creeping Garden (2014) – This documentary blends science fiction and real biology as it delves into the strange world of slime molds—organism that researchers argue could challenge our understanding of intelligent life.

6.Know Your Mushrooms (2009) – Ron Mann’s documentary follows mycologists Gary Lincoff and Larry Evans during a mushroom hunting expedition and covers various aspects of fungal biology as well as the culture surrounding mushroom enthusiasts.

7.The Last Season (2014) – A poignant documentary about the bond between two men during the annual mushroom-picking season in Oregon and how it intersects with themes of love, loss, and economic survival.

8.Magic Trip (2011) – A retrospective look at Ken Kesey’s LSD-fueled road trip across America with his Merry Pranksters, during which they encountered diverse experiences and hallucinogenic mushrooms played a part in their journey.

9.Alice in Wonderland (1951) – Though not exclusively about fungi, this animated Disney classic features one of pop culture’s most iconic psychedelic mushroom scenes where Alice encounters a caterpillar atop a size-changing mushroom.

10.Mushrooming (2012) – This Estonian comedy-drama tells the story of politician Aadu Kägu who gets lost in the woods while mushroom picking. The film cleverly mixes social commentary with an offbeat humor tied to Estonia’s cultural obsession with forest fungi.

Each film takes a unique approach to portraying fungi on screen, whether through horror, humor, or scientific inquiry. They provide insight into both the wonderment and fears associated with these complex organisms while also touching upon human themes relevant to all viewers.