AtaraxiaFollowing our list of the top 5 must-watch Halloween films, here are five enchanting “witchy” movies that you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Perfect for a family viewing, these films are true classics that will awaken the witch within you. While many other films could easily have made this list, you can always find more witch-themed movies in our cinema category. Without further ado, here is a delightful selection to bring out your inner sorceress.
1. Hocus Pocus
Released in 1993, Hocus Pocus introduces us to the Sanderson sisters: Winifred, Sarah, and Mary, three witches who first wreaked havoc in 1693. The story begins with the kidnapping of Thackery Binx’s younger sister. Thackery tries to confront the witches, but they steal his sister’s life force to rejuvenate themselves. As a punishment, the witches transform Binx into a cat, cursed to live forever with the guilt of failing to save his sister. Just before they are captured and hanged by the townspeople of Salem, Winifred curses the town, prophesying their return to Earth on Halloween night through the actions of a pure and innocent soul.
Three hundred years later, in 1993, a child lights a black candle in the old Sanderson sisters’ mansion, bringing them back to life. The magic that resurrects them only lasts for Halloween night, so the witches scour the town, seeking children to consume, or else they will turn to dust at sunrise. The story follows three children and Binx as they attempt to stop the witches and save the children of Salem from a grim fate.
2. Twitches
Released in 2005, Twitches tells the story of Alex and Camryn, twin sisters separated at birth and raised in two very different families. One sister grows up in modest circumstances, while the other enjoys the privileges of high society. Both girls know they are adopted but are unaware of each other’s existence. Their lives might have continued separately, one leading a carefree life and the other working hard, if not for a magical intervention that forces them to meet on their 21st birthday. As they get to know each other, they are shocked to discover they possess extraordinary powers.
3. Practical Magic
Raised by their eccentric aunts, Jet and Frances, in an ancient house filled with magic, Sally and Gillian Owens have always felt different. Surrounded by the mystical rituals passed down by their ancestors, the sisters are both envied and feared by the townspeople. Sally tries to lead a normal life but cannot escape the curse that hangs over her. Meanwhile, Gillian embraces her uniqueness, but her encounter with the sinister Jimmy unleashes forces beyond her control.
This 1999 film stars Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman. Don’t forget to prepare some “midnight margaritas” to sip while watching this enchanting masterpiece that will surely cast a spell on you.
4. Hansel and Gretel: Witch Hunters
Rated PG-13, this film offers a modern twist on the classic tale of Hansel and Gretel.
Fifteen years after being abandoned in a forest by their parents, Hansel and Gretel have grown into formidable bounty hunters, dedicated to tracking down witches across the globe. When the mayor of Augsburg, alarmed by the recent disappearances of numerous children, seeks their help, the siblings set out to hunt down Muriel, a powerful witch who can take on human form. Despite the opposition of Sheriff Berringer, they quickly uncover Muriel’s sinister plan to sacrifice twelve children during the Blood Moon. Jeremy Renner and Gemma Arterton shine in this action-packed and visually spectacular adaptation of the famous Grimm Brothers’ fairy tale.
5. Stardust
Stardust transports viewers to a quaint English village so peaceful it might as well be asleep. Nestled in a valley, the village of Wall owes its name to the ancient barrier that for centuries has kept its inhabitants from venturing into the neighboring kingdom—a land teeming with fairies, witches, flying pirates, and other malevolent creatures.
One day, a naive young man named Tristan, hoping to win the heart of Wall’s most beautiful girl, promises to bring her a fallen star as a token of his love. To fulfill his vow, he does what no one else has dared: he scales the forbidden wall and enters the magical kingdom of Stormhold. But Tristan must hurry to find the star, for a wicked witch seeks to use it in a dark ritual…
These films, each with its unique charm and magic, are perfect for a cozy movie night with family or friends. Whether you’re in the mood for humor, adventure, or a bit of romance, this list has something for every witch at heart.
