No Halloween movie marathon would be complete without a visit from the most compelling of monsters: the witch.
Witches have long captured humanity's imagination, whether they appear as cackling wart-speckled wood creatures hunched over a cauldron, beautiful young femme fatales lurking in plain sight, or the former disguised as the latter. The witch appears time and again to stir the soul, to offer a sense of community to the outcast and power to the powerless.
To celebrate the history of the witch in fiction, let's take a ride through the world of witch movies, where broomsticks are not just for sweeping. From the sinister to the spellbinding, these enchanting flicks have cast their spell on audiences for decades.
We're diving deep into the realm of witchcraft, but don't worry; there's no need for a magic wand or a bubbling cauldron to join us on this supernatural journey. All you need is a comfy seat, some popcorn, and a dash of curiosity.
Whether you're a casual moviegoer or a full-fledged coven member, this list has something for everyone. We'll explore movies that'll have you cackling with delight, shivering in terror, or maybe even questioning your own mystical potential.
'Season of the Witch' (1973)
The Latent Image
Housewife Joan Mitchell (Jan White) is bored with her life. She wanders through existence with little to no excitement. Married to a businessman named Jack (Bill Thunhurst), Joan seeks out the occult for some sort of connection and vitality. She joins a local coven and begins performing spells, quickly finding a new kind of power within the pages of a spellbook. As she delves deeper into the mystical, she grows in confidence and soon reclaims her life, discarding all that is old and decrepit — even if that means spilling a little blood in the process. Famed director George A. Romero hooks you into the story and delivers on the thrills and chills.
Where to watch: Tubi, AMC+
'Practical Magic' (1998)
Warner Bros.
"Practical Magic" is a delightful supernatural comedy-drama film that premiered in 1998, based on the novel by Alice Hoffman. Starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as two witch sisters, it weaves a tale of family, love, and the consequences of using magic. The film beautifully captures the complexities of the Owens women, who are cursed to see any man they love meet a tragic end. It's a story of sisterhood, self-discovery, and breaking free from a family curse. With a touch of romance and humor, "Practical Magic" remains a beloved classic among fans of witchy-themed movies.
Where to watch: Hulu
'The Witch' (2015)
A24
Anya Taylor-Joy stars as Thomasin, the eldest child to William (Ralph Ineson) and Katherine (Kate Dickie). The family has been cast out from their community and must forage on their own. They settle some distance away and attempt to make a life for themselves. It's a meager life, but it's theirs. Things seem to be going well when suddenly William and Katherine's infant son vanishes, leading them to believe a witch has emerged from the nearby woods. Thomasin becomes the target of their ire, and soon they allege that she is a witch, too. Robert Eggers stages a gripping tale right in the center of 1630s New England. Everything from the language to the costumes feels authentic to the time. The film presents a conversation about religious fanaticism, as well as belonging, and finds Thomasin seeking companionship elsewhere.
Where to watch: Max
'Hocus Pocus' (1993)
Buena Vista Pictures Distribution
"Hocus Pocus" is a Halloween classic that casts a spell of nostalgia on viewers. The film features the iconic trio of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as three witch sisters resurrected in modern-day Salem. With their quirky and memorable performances, the Sanderson sisters bring hilarity and a touch of the macabre to the screen. The film's enduring appeal lies in its ability to blend family-friendly comedy with spooky fun, making it a must-watch during the Halloween season.
Where to watch: Disney+
'Suspiria' (1977)
Seda Spettacoli
Dario Argento's 1977 film "Suspiria" shimmers with high style. That's the way of Italian filmmaking. You can always depend on flashing colors and awe-inspiring angles to accentuate the story. In the film, set in Germany, Suzy (Jessica Harper) travels to a posh dance academy where she has great ambitions to become a famous ballet dancer. As soon as she arrives, everything seems slightly off-kilter. She witnesses another young girl fleeing from the property, and those around her begin dying one by one. When she begins hearing sounds within the school's hallowed walls, her investigation takes her deep into a circle of lies, deceit and sacrifice.
Where to watch: Tubi, Showtime, Paramount+
'The Craft' (1996)
Columbia Pictures
"The Craft" is a dark exploration of witchcraft's darker side. This 1996 horror film follows a group of high school girls who form a coven and delve into the world of magic. As their powers grow, so do the consequences, leading to a chilling climax. The film delves into themes of female empowerment, peer pressure, and the dangers of unchecked ambition. "The Craft" is a cult classic that resonates with audiences who appreciate tales of teenage rebellion and the allure of supernatural power.
Where to watch: Hulu
'Rosemary's Baby' (1968)
Harry Benson/Express/Getty Images
When Rosemary (Mia Farrow) gets pregnant, her husband, Guy (John Cassavetes), urges her to go see a friend, Dr. Abraham Sapirstein (Ralph Bellamy), for prenatal care. With the couple having just moved into a new Manhattan apartment, several tenants take a liking to Rosemary, and their intentions seem to be good — at least at first. But as they draw closer, Rosemary begins to suspect that her so-called new friends might have ill intentions toward her and her baby. "Rosemary's Baby" throbs with mood and tension, and Farrow delivers a knock-out, award-worthy performance.
Where to watch: AMC+, Philo
'Häxan: Witchcraft Through the Ages' (1922)
UFA
"Häxan" documents the vilification of women through the ages with a mix of factual references and dramatizations. Released in 1922, the film expertly crafts a linear narrative to prove that the othering of marginalized people is a tale as old as time itself. Director Benjamin Christensen uses spooky images of a tongue-wagging devil (whom he also plays) to drive home the sinister elements that often lead to drowning, burnings at the stake and other heinous crimes against humanity. A large portion of the film follows Maria the Weaver (Maren Pedersen) and how she's accused of witchcraft, leading not only to her torture and confession but finger-pointing at other so-called witches in the community.
Where to watch: Max, Tubi
'Black Sunday' (1960)
Galatea Film
A witch named Asa Vajda is burned at the stake. In her dying words, she makes a vow to torment and torture her descendants, even if it takes another life. Hundreds of years pass, and she returns to exact her revenge. She also raises her henchman from the dead and mounts an expedition to cause a little bloodshed in the process. Directed by Mario Bava, "Black Sunday" is an expertly crafted story about retribution, collective paranoia and cruelty toward marginalized people.
Where to watch: YouTube, Prime Video, SlingTV, Plex
'Teen Witch' (1989)
Trans World Entertainment
"Teen Witch" is a charming '80s teen comedy-fantasy film that brings a touch of magic to the high school experience. The film follows the adventures of Louise, a high school girl who discovers her newfound magical powers on her 16th birthday. The story takes a lighthearted and nostalgic approach to the idea of gaining extraordinary abilities during adolescence. With its catchy musical numbers, humorous situations, and themes of self-discovery, it offers a unique blend of supernatural elements and classic coming-of-age storytelling. "Teen Witch" continues to be a beloved cult favorite, celebrated for its spirited and whimsical take on teenage wishes and the challenges of growing up.
Where to watch: Max
'Witchhammer' (1970)
Filmové studio Barrandov
Similar to "Häxan," "Witchhammer" depicts the reality of women and men who didn't uphold puritanical beliefs and practices. If they didn't fall in line, inquisitors were summoned to investigate for witchcraft, often leading to countless false confessions through cruel means. Based upon the story of the Northern Moravia witch trials of the 1670s, the film is an uncomfortable, infuriating watch. Director Otakar Vávra plays upon very real fears of the era and the humanity that was so frequently stripped away for sometimes petty reasons. "Witchhammer" also features graphic depictions of witch burnings that'll make your skin crawl as you hear the shrieks above the crackling of flames.
Where to watch: Rent on Amazon
'Hellbender' (2021)
Wonder Wheel Productions
A mother (Toby Poser) and her daughter, Izzy (Zelda Adams), live a quiet life in the woods. They're secluded with very little human connection. They bond over and make metal music. Life couldn't be better. That is, until Izzy meets a new friend, which leads Izzy to make a startling discovery about her family's connection to witchcraft. The trio of directors — Zelda Adams, Toby Poser and John Adams — plunge the audience into the icy surface of terribly unsettling images that flash like a strobe light across the screen. Even in the quiet moments, the film jolts you awake.
Where to watch: AMC+
'The Witches of Eastwick' (1987)
Warner Bros.
"The Witches of Eastwick" is a captivating dark fantasy-comedy film that combines elements of the supernatural with a dash of sensuality and humor. Starring Cher, Susan Sarandon, and Michelle Pfeiffer, the film explores the lives of three women who, while unaware of their magical potential, conjure a charismatic warlock into their lives. The story touches on themes of female empowerment, friendship, and the consequences of wielding power. The film's witty and provocative narrative, coupled with the stellar performances of its leading ladies, gives it a unique and entertaining edge. "The Witches of Eastwick" successfully weaves together romance, horror, and comedy, resulting in a spellbinding cinematic experience that continues to enchant audiences.
Where to watch: YouTube, Prime Video, Apple TV
'Hereditary' (2018)
Reid Chavis
Grief lies at the heart of Ari Aster's debut feature "Hereditary." What begins as a family's mourning over a grandmother quickly unravels and becomes much more than that. You see, there's a demonic presence that seeks to destroy them, and the grandmother's dabbling in witchcraft might have something to do with it. Aster delivers the story with real, raw and unfettered human emotion. It's grounded and real, as though it could actually happen. It's only the skiff of witchiness that takes it to an even higher plane of storytelling.
Where to watch: Max
'The Witches' (2020)
Max
"The Witches" is a dark fantasy-comedy film that offers a contemporary reimagining of Roald Dahl's classic children's novel. The 2020 adaptation is directed by Robert Zemeckis and stars Anne Hathaway and Octavia Spencer. The story follows a young boy who, following a tragic encounter with a witch, goes to live with his grandmother. Unbeknownst to them, they soon find themselves embroiled in a grand gathering of witches led by the formidable Grand High Witch, played by Anne Hathaway. What makes "The Witches" particularly intriguing is its balance of family-friendly elements and darker, more sinister undertones. Anne Hathaway's portrayal of the Grand High Witch adds a chilling and charismatic dimension to the character, making her both terrifying and captivating. The film successfully blends elements of humor, fantasy, and a touch of horror, creating a story that appeals to a broad range of audiences.
Where to watch: Max
