Objective In order to find the basic complex method of the magnetic cellulose nanocomposite films, the preparation methods and mechanisms of nano-Fe3O4 were reviewed in this paper. Methods The advantages and disadvantages of a series of preparation approaches including precipitation method, hydrothermal reaction method, microemulsion method, sol-gel method, pyrolysis method were analyzed. Results The researches and applications of magnetic nanocellulose films were summarized. And some suggestions were given for future development of the magnetic cellulose nanocomposite films. Conclusion In-situ composite preparation of magnetic nanocellulose films is a hot spot in research and has significant meaning and bright prospects.