Dungeons & Dragons is a great looking film, but the dialogue and plotting lacks the pseudointellectual aspect that made the game so popular. The problem with the film is that the protagonist's quest for the ruby degenerates into more of a Indiana Jones-style adventure rather than a slow and clever overcoming of obstacles and development of abilities in a magical fantasy world.
The kingdom of Izmer is stratified into two classes, the powerful and elite mages and the working commoners. The kingdom is ruled by young Empress Savina (Thora Birch) who wishes to treat all people equally. But the evil mage Profion (Jeremy Irons) fears a loss of power and turns the mage council against her. To save herself, the Empress must find the Dragon's Eye ruby which will enable her to command the Red Dragons (as well as the Golden Dragons she already commands). Aiding her quest are two commoner thieves Ridley (Justin Whalin) and Snails (Marlon Wayans), Ridley's love interest Marina (Zoe McLellan), the Queen's scout Norda (Kristen Wilson), and Elwood the dwarf (Lee Arenberg). Together they must fight Profion and his wicked henchman Damodar (Bruce Payne).
The cinematography is interesting and at times it looks as though you're going through a video game. The effects are decent and the dragon fight scene at the end is pretty cool. The acting is generally terrible. Dungeons & Dragons can be a fun movie to watch if you don't have too high of an expectation.