When we think of “witches” in film, we often think pointed hats, and long crooked green noses. Malicious twisted beings deformed by a lifelong obsession with the dark arts. Magic flying broomsticks, kids in cages, waiting for the oven to hit the right temperature for hearty witches stew!
It isn’t quite so simple as the historical witches of fairytales and folklore nowadays, they’re not always malevolent forces in cinema, nor are they all ancient and withered. Or even women, for that matter. The modern witch can be whatever the story requires.
In no particular order here’s our list of classic fun witchy themed films to watch this Halloween.
Teen Witch, 1989
What would you do if you realised you were a witch… just a few weeks before you turned 16? Get an awesome boyfriend and turn seriously popular, says this teen witch.
Escape to Witch Mountain, 1975
Two orphans come to terms with their extraordinary powers in this timeless film. While they’re at it, a few important and mysterious truths about their truth begin to reveal themselves.
Kiki’s Delivery Service, 2003
This stunning, ultra-creative coming-of-age film will delight, inspire, and entertain both you and your kids. In order to become a true witch, Kiki has to set out on a great and intense adventure but she’ll gain much more than just witching powers along the way.
Hocus Pocus, 1993
This Halloween cult classic obviously had to make the list. The Sanderson Sisters played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy and their plot to wreak havoc on the unsuspecting trick-or-treaters of Salem, Massachusetts, is still hilarious. Plus, there’s a talking cat, 11-year-old Thora Birch, a zombie, and an a catchy cover of “I Put a Spell on You.”
With news of sequel on the way we can barely contain our excitement!!!
Stardust, 2007
Three witch sisters Lillam, Mormo, and Empusa plot to steal the heart of Yvaine, a young maiden who has traveled into their land. Yvaine is also being pursued by a man from her village who’s trying to prove his love.
The Witches, 1990
Forget the remake (actually worth a watch if you’ve not seen it) it’s all about Anjelica Huston!
Based on a Roahl Dahl novel, this film follows a boy who stumbles upon a convention of witches plotting to turn all children into mice at the hotel he and his grandma are staying in. The boy attempts to stop them, but only after becoming a mouse himself.
The Craft, 1996
This ’90s horror flick follows Sarah, a troubled teen who forms a witch coven with three other outcasts. As a result, the four girls gain access to dark powers and use their newfound magic for teenage plots, from petty revenge to attracting the school hunk. But things get dark fast as the coven’s leader gets out of control and people start dying.
Let’s just brush the latest remake/sequel under the carpet shall we?
The Witches of Eastwick, 1987
Cher, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Susan Sarandon play three best friends who bond their dream man, and unknowingly summon him in the form of the devil, played by Jack Nicholson. While attempting to send him back to where he came from, the ladies discover the depth of their own powers in this classic dark comedy.
Mary & The Witches Flower, 2017
This critically-acclaimed film will delight both parents and kids alike. Thanks to a flower, Mary gains some exciting, witchy powers for one night only.
Sabrina the Teenage Witch, 1996
This TV movie inspired the 90’s classic sitcom of the same name (but not the scary Netflix remake). Come for the teen witch nostalgia, stay for a very young Ryan Reynolds playing Sabrina’s love interest.
The Love Witch
A modern-day witch uses spells and magic to get men to fall in love with her, with deadly consequences. Its hilarious, think Bewitched but definitely not for the kids!
Thanks for reading and have a wonderful spooktober!!!