Witches are having a bit of a moment. While they have been a large part of pop culture over the past few decades, more and more people are becoming Wiccans. And it’s not just in real life. Witches are once again infiltrating the big screen. Over the last decade, there have been more movies about witches than ever before. While most older movies portray witches as ugly old women with long noses flying broomsticks and boiling humans in cauldrons, the witches in modern films are a lot more creepy. These supernatural beings are deadly, dangerous, and all-powerful with plans to take over the world, or at the very least kill a load of people. While we want to shed a light on some of these new scary witches in contemporary movies, we also want to celebrate the classic witch films from yesterday year. So boil up something in your caldron, put your broomstick in the cupboard, and get ready for some thrills and kills with these spooky movies about witches. 17 Spooky Movies About Witches Rotten Tomatoes Trailers/YouTube
- The Wizard of Oz (1939)
No list featuring movies about witches would be complete without including The Wizard of Oz. The 1939 classic features one of the most notable witches in movie history; the green-faced Wicked Witch of the West. Dressed in typical witch fare (black gown, black pointy hat, and broomstick accessory), the Wicked Witch of the West set the template for all witch movies to come. Margaret Hamilton’s outrageous performance as the witch is also commendable, with her cackling laugh and sneering delivering the highlight. While her death isn’t anything exciting (she melts away after water gets on her), the Wicked Witch is one of the main reasons why witches remain popular today. 2. Black Sunday (1960)
An oldie but a goodie, Black Sunday is an Italian horror masterpiece from legendary director Mario Bava. The movie concerns a young witch put to death by her brother who then returns two centuries later seeking vengeance. As is the case with Italian films from this era, there is lots of blood and guts throughout Black Sunday, with some disgusting scenes causing controversy with conservative audiences at that time. Although it failed in Italy, the American release, which cut out much of the gore and sexually explicit scenes, was a moderate success. The movie has been retrospectively hailed as one of the best gothic horrors, with the black and white violence and detailed cinematography only adding to the movie’s legacy. 3. The Witches of Eastwick (1987)
Best known for the Mad Max series of movies, George Miller changed tact when he directed this fantasy comedy. Based on a book, The Witches of Eastwick focuses on three women (Susan Sarandon, Cher, and Michelle Pfeiffer) who are unaware that they are witches. Dissatisfied with their lives, they are each seduced by a handsome newcomer (Jack Nicholson) in town who pits the women against each other for his amusement. When they learn of this, the trio team up and use their magic to take down Nicholson before it’s too late. There’s a lot to like about this movie, with Miller proving he can do more than direct big action set pieces. All three female leads are wonderful, while Nicholson shows his comedic chops and is irresistibly charming despite his horrid personality. 4. Harry Potter Franchise (2001 – 2011)
While Harry Potter might be a wizard, there are plenty of witches in this much-loved fantasy franchise. While too hard to single out just one movie, we put them all together, with each film worth mentioning. You probably know the ins and outs of the story, but the basic premise of Harry Potter focuses on the title character and his two good friends – Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger – as they navigate wizarding school. Each film slowly reveals more about Potter and his spellcasting brethren as the true nature of his purpose is revealed. All the movies were box office smashes and helped launch the careers of main stars Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson. People’s obsession with the series continues with the recent Fantastic Beast movies and author JK Rowling’s insistence on continuing to churn out below-par off-shoots of the series. 5. The Witch (2015)
The debut feature from Robert Eggers is a creepy story about a family in 1630s New English. When they are banished from their colony, they settle near the woods and find themselves terrorized by a witch who kidnaps their youngest son. The witch then makes the family’s daughter her next victim, trying to turn her into a witch. The Witch is a gripping horror that slowly ramps up the tension as black billy goat Black Philip begins speaking to the family’s twin boys and all sorts of other weird stuff happens on the farm. Anya Taylor Joy is incredible in her first film performance while Eggers announces himself with this chilling New England folk tale. 6. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Not every movie about witches has to be a horror. Hocus Pocus is an early 90s comedy starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as a trio of witches. They find themselves accidentally resurrected by a brother and sister on Halloween in modern times. As they try and do all they can to survive this new world, including getting rid of all the kids, the sibling’s race against time to send them back to where they came from. There are lots of laughs to be had while watching Hocus Pocus, with the three leads all exceptions, especially Midler. Although not a huge hit when released, the movie has become a cult classic over the years, with Disney recently announcing a sequel is in the works. 7. Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996)
Before the successful TV show, there was this little-seen TV movie. Sabrina the Teenage Witch, based on the comic book series of the same name, stars Mellisa Joan Hart as, you guessed it, teen witch Sabrina. Sent to live with her aunts in Riverdale, she discovers she is a witch on her 16th birthday. She then tries to use her newfound powers to make her crush like her, but without casting an actual love spell. Similar to the series, this made-for-TV movie is part drama part comedy, with Hart well cast as good witch Sabrina. There are quite a few differences between the movie and TV show, but it’s a good starting place for anyone looking to learn more about the series. 8. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
While it might not be as scary to modern horror fans, when The Blair Witch Project arrived in 1999 it scared audiences shitless. Helping launch the found footage trend, the movie centers on three young teens who attempt to discover more about the Blair Witch, a local legend. Delving deep into the Black Hills near Burkittsville, Maryland, the trio becomes lost as strange symbols being to appear in the woods. Shooting with hand-held cameras might give you nausea, but it only heightens the anxiety as you watch the three being chased through the dark and picked off one by one. The Blair Witch is a horror classic with an evil witch you don’t actually see until the frightening climax, but that doesn’t decrease the fear levels watching this movie.
See more about - 12 Spine Chilling Horror Movies Like Midsommar
- Sleepy Hollow (1999)
As this is a Tim Burton film, you know it’s going to be full of creepy imagery and a plot that leans into the occult. Based on Washington Irving’s 1820 short story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the movie stars Johnny Depp (before the scandals) as Ichabod Crane, a quirky investigator sent to find out more about three headless bodies that have turned up in the town of Sleepy Hollow. Believing the culprit to be the Headless Horseman, Crane joins together with local rich girl Katrina Van Tassel (Christina Ritchie) to find out what is really happening. Turns out there’s a witch involved as the victims pile up. While not one of his best, Burton’s Sleepy Hollow is still an enjoyable watch with enough thrills and spills to keep your attention. 10. Practical Magic (1998)
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman play sisters who come from a long line of witches but are unaware of the powers they possess. Although they live apart from each other they share a strong bond that is tested when an evil spirit comes after them. Forced to learn about witchcraft and their abilities, the duo must battle the spirit before they find themselves banished from the world. This is another movie about witches that wasn’t that well received when first released, but found an audience on DVD. Bullock and Kidman are wonderful and the movie has a good combination of romance and drama balanced out by some comedic moments. The soundtrack is a must-listen and just as good as the film, with the likes of Stevie Nicks, Joni Mitchell, Elvis Presley, and Marvin Gaye all featuring. 11. The Witches (1990)
Many of Roald Dahl’s books have been turned into movies, with the adaptation of The Witches one of the best. Anjelica Huston is perfectly cast as the bad witch, the Grand High Witch, who plans to turn all the children in England into mice. Orphan Luke, now living with his grandmother Helga, discovers the witches’ evil plan and must try and stop them. Unfortunately, things don’t exactly go to plan, with Luke turning into a mouse before he can stop them from putting their plan into action. The Witches is a fantastic movie for all ages that combines a spooky story about witches with plenty of humor. The special effects for when the witches turn from their human form into what they actually look like is commendable, with the witches all appearing terrifying. 12. The Craft (1996)
The mid-90s saw a lot of witch-centric movies released, with The Craft aimed at teen audiences. Four young outsiders (Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell, and Rachel True) become fast friends as they look to witchcraft as a way to make their lives better. As their powers increase, so do their egos. With one of the witches craving more power and two of the others happy to go along, it’s up to Tunney to stop them before too many people get hurt. A big hit when released, The Craft captures the magic of the 90s generation (Balk and Campbell were at their peak) in all its glory. As is the case with most films from that time period, the cast is young and attractive, the story fast-moving, and the soundtrack gold, with the majority of the tracks being old songs covered by new artists. 13. Suspiria (1977)
Arguably Dario Argento’s crowning glory, Suspiria is a nightmare trip unlike anything you will have seen before. American dance student Suzy Bannion transfers to a German dance school where a bunch of horrific murders have occurred. She soon finds herself drawn into the mystery and discovers a supernatural conspiracy that could lead to the end of days, or something along those lines. Suspiria put Argento on the map thanks to its gory violence, stylistic direction, and pulsating soundtrack performed by Italian heavy rock act Goblin. The film is visually striking and despite the muddled plot, will leave you on a knifes edge as Bannion tries to understand what is happening. Lookout for a young Udo Kier in one of his breakthrough roles and stay well clear of the 2018 remake. 14. Spirited Away (2001)
Studio Ghibli’s most recognizable movie is often cited as one of the great animations of the 21st century. Written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this gorgeous movie touches on many themes, from Western consumerism to environmental issues, and is packed full of Japanese mythology. Similar to Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the movie plays out like a fairytale, with young girl Chihiro Ogino trying to escape the clutches of the evil witch Yubaba, who has turned her parents into pigs. There really aren’t enough words to do this film justice, as it exceeds at every level. Not only is it visually stunning, but the story is well written and the voice acting superb. 15. Maleficent (2014)
The Disney movie Maleficent stars Angelina Jolie as the title character, a powerful fairy who is Queen of the Moors. When she is double-crossed by her former lover, she turns into an evil witch hellbent on revenge. This movie is much darker than your usual Disney movie, with Rick Baker’s special effects work some of the best he’s done since An American Werewolf in London. While visually spectacular, if there is a negative, it’s that the story waffles on a bit. Young kids might also get spooked by some of the scenes too. All that aside, Maleficent is a decent watch thanks to Jolie’s mesmerizing performance. 16. Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters
This might not be a great film, but it stars Jeremy Renner and Gemma Arterton as Hansel and Gretal, witch hunters who travel the world disposing of evil spellcasters. Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairytale, the siblings come to a town where they are hired to kill a witch who has been kidnapping the townsfolk’s children. Unlike your standard fairytale retelling, Hansel & Gretal: Witch Hunters is chock full of action. It’s quite violent and bloody, with the duo using a wide range of weapons to take out the witches who want them dead. This film is a fairytale masquerading as an action film, and we are here for that. If you can, seek out the extended cut which features more gore, more swearing, and more sex. 17. Into the Woods (2014)
Disney loves a good witch movie. Into the Woods is an adaptation of the musical of the same name starring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Anna Kendrick, Johnny Depp, and a resurgent Chris Pine. A childless couple seeks revenge on the witch who cursed them, unaware of the consequences their actions will have. The movie features a cast of famous Disney characters and some wonderful musical moments. Depending on your love of musicals, you’ll either love this film or hate it. Streep, who plays The Witch, delivers on all fronts, proving once again why she is one of the greats.
See more about - The 13 Best Horror Franchises To Binge This Halloween
Witches are having a bit of a moment. While they have been a large part of pop culture over the past few decades, more and more people are becoming Wiccans. And it’s not just in real life. Witches are once again infiltrating the big screen. Over the last decade, there have been more movies about witches than ever before. While most older movies portray witches as ugly old women with long noses flying broomsticks and boiling humans in cauldrons, the witches in modern films are a lot more creepy. These supernatural beings are deadly, dangerous, and all-powerful with plans to take over the world, or at the very least kill a load of people. While we want to shed a light on some of these new scary witches in contemporary movies, we also want to celebrate the classic witch films from yesterday year. So boil up something in your caldron, put your broomstick in the cupboard, and get ready for some thrills and kills with these spooky movies about witches. 17 Spooky Movies About Witches Rotten Tomatoes Trailers/YouTube
- The Wizard of Oz (1939)
No list featuring movies about witches would be complete without including The Wizard of Oz. The 1939 classic features one of the most notable witches in movie history; the green-faced Wicked Witch of the West. Dressed in typical witch fare (black gown, black pointy hat, and broomstick accessory), the Wicked Witch of the West set the template for all witch movies to come. Margaret Hamilton’s outrageous performance as the witch is also commendable, with her cackling laugh and sneering delivering the highlight. While her death isn’t anything exciting (she melts away after water gets on her), the Wicked Witch is one of the main reasons why witches remain popular today. 2. Black Sunday (1960)
An oldie but a goodie, Black Sunday is an Italian horror masterpiece from legendary director Mario Bava. The movie concerns a young witch put to death by her brother who then returns two centuries later seeking vengeance. As is the case with Italian films from this era, there is lots of blood and guts throughout Black Sunday, with some disgusting scenes causing controversy with conservative audiences at that time. Although it failed in Italy, the American release, which cut out much of the gore and sexually explicit scenes, was a moderate success. The movie has been retrospectively hailed as one of the best gothic horrors, with the black and white violence and detailed cinematography only adding to the movie’s legacy. 3. The Witches of Eastwick (1987)
Best known for the Mad Max series of movies, George Miller changed tact when he directed this fantasy comedy. Based on a book, The Witches of Eastwick focuses on three women (Susan Sarandon, Cher, and Michelle Pfeiffer) who are unaware that they are witches. Dissatisfied with their lives, they are each seduced by a handsome newcomer (Jack Nicholson) in town who pits the women against each other for his amusement. When they learn of this, the trio team up and use their magic to take down Nicholson before it’s too late. There’s a lot to like about this movie, with Miller proving he can do more than direct big action set pieces. All three female leads are wonderful, while Nicholson shows his comedic chops and is irresistibly charming despite his horrid personality. 4. Harry Potter Franchise (2001 – 2011)
While Harry Potter might be a wizard, there are plenty of witches in this much-loved fantasy franchise. While too hard to single out just one movie, we put them all together, with each film worth mentioning. You probably know the ins and outs of the story, but the basic premise of Harry Potter focuses on the title character and his two good friends – Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger – as they navigate wizarding school. Each film slowly reveals more about Potter and his spellcasting brethren as the true nature of his purpose is revealed. All the movies were box office smashes and helped launch the careers of main stars Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson. People’s obsession with the series continues with the recent Fantastic Beast movies and author JK Rowling’s insistence on continuing to churn out below-par off-shoots of the series. 5. The Witch (2015)
The debut feature from Robert Eggers is a creepy story about a family in 1630s New English. When they are banished from their colony, they settle near the woods and find themselves terrorized by a witch who kidnaps their youngest son. The witch then makes the family’s daughter her next victim, trying to turn her into a witch. The Witch is a gripping horror that slowly ramps up the tension as black billy goat Black Philip begins speaking to the family’s twin boys and all sorts of other weird stuff happens on the farm. Anya Taylor Joy is incredible in her first film performance while Eggers announces himself with this chilling New England folk tale. 6. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Not every movie about witches has to be a horror. Hocus Pocus is an early 90s comedy starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as a trio of witches. They find themselves accidentally resurrected by a brother and sister on Halloween in modern times. As they try and do all they can to survive this new world, including getting rid of all the kids, the sibling’s race against time to send them back to where they came from. There are lots of laughs to be had while watching Hocus Pocus, with the three leads all exceptions, especially Midler. Although not a huge hit when released, the movie has become a cult classic over the years, with Disney recently announcing a sequel is in the works. 7. Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996)
Before the successful TV show, there was this little-seen TV movie. Sabrina the Teenage Witch, based on the comic book series of the same name, stars Mellisa Joan Hart as, you guessed it, teen witch Sabrina. Sent to live with her aunts in Riverdale, she discovers she is a witch on her 16th birthday. She then tries to use her newfound powers to make her crush like her, but without casting an actual love spell. Similar to the series, this made-for-TV movie is part drama part comedy, with Hart well cast as good witch Sabrina. There are quite a few differences between the movie and TV show, but it’s a good starting place for anyone looking to learn more about the series. 8. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
While it might not be as scary to modern horror fans, when The Blair Witch Project arrived in 1999 it scared audiences shitless. Helping launch the found footage trend, the movie centers on three young teens who attempt to discover more about the Blair Witch, a local legend. Delving deep into the Black Hills near Burkittsville, Maryland, the trio becomes lost as strange symbols being to appear in the woods. Shooting with hand-held cameras might give you nausea, but it only heightens the anxiety as you watch the three being chased through the dark and picked off one by one. The Blair Witch is a horror classic with an evil witch you don’t actually see until the frightening climax, but that doesn’t decrease the fear levels watching this movie.
See more about - 12 Spine Chilling Horror Movies Like Midsommar
- Sleepy Hollow (1999)
As this is a Tim Burton film, you know it’s going to be full of creepy imagery and a plot that leans into the occult. Based on Washington Irving’s 1820 short story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the movie stars Johnny Depp (before the scandals) as Ichabod Crane, a quirky investigator sent to find out more about three headless bodies that have turned up in the town of Sleepy Hollow. Believing the culprit to be the Headless Horseman, Crane joins together with local rich girl Katrina Van Tassel (Christina Ritchie) to find out what is really happening. Turns out there’s a witch involved as the victims pile up. While not one of his best, Burton’s Sleepy Hollow is still an enjoyable watch with enough thrills and spills to keep your attention. 10. Practical Magic (1998)
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman play sisters who come from a long line of witches but are unaware of the powers they possess. Although they live apart from each other they share a strong bond that is tested when an evil spirit comes after them. Forced to learn about witchcraft and their abilities, the duo must battle the spirit before they find themselves banished from the world. This is another movie about witches that wasn’t that well received when first released, but found an audience on DVD. Bullock and Kidman are wonderful and the movie has a good combination of romance and drama balanced out by some comedic moments. The soundtrack is a must-listen and just as good as the film, with the likes of Stevie Nicks, Joni Mitchell, Elvis Presley, and Marvin Gaye all featuring. 11. The Witches (1990)
Many of Roald Dahl’s books have been turned into movies, with the adaptation of The Witches one of the best. Anjelica Huston is perfectly cast as the bad witch, the Grand High Witch, who plans to turn all the children in England into mice. Orphan Luke, now living with his grandmother Helga, discovers the witches’ evil plan and must try and stop them. Unfortunately, things don’t exactly go to plan, with Luke turning into a mouse before he can stop them from putting their plan into action. The Witches is a fantastic movie for all ages that combines a spooky story about witches with plenty of humor. The special effects for when the witches turn from their human form into what they actually look like is commendable, with the witches all appearing terrifying. 12. The Craft (1996)
The mid-90s saw a lot of witch-centric movies released, with The Craft aimed at teen audiences. Four young outsiders (Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell, and Rachel True) become fast friends as they look to witchcraft as a way to make their lives better. As their powers increase, so do their egos. With one of the witches craving more power and two of the others happy to go along, it’s up to Tunney to stop them before too many people get hurt. A big hit when released, The Craft captures the magic of the 90s generation (Balk and Campbell were at their peak) in all its glory. As is the case with most films from that time period, the cast is young and attractive, the story fast-moving, and the soundtrack gold, with the majority of the tracks being old songs covered by new artists. 13. Suspiria (1977)
Arguably Dario Argento’s crowning glory, Suspiria is a nightmare trip unlike anything you will have seen before. American dance student Suzy Bannion transfers to a German dance school where a bunch of horrific murders have occurred. She soon finds herself drawn into the mystery and discovers a supernatural conspiracy that could lead to the end of days, or something along those lines. Suspiria put Argento on the map thanks to its gory violence, stylistic direction, and pulsating soundtrack performed by Italian heavy rock act Goblin. The film is visually striking and despite the muddled plot, will leave you on a knifes edge as Bannion tries to understand what is happening. Lookout for a young Udo Kier in one of his breakthrough roles and stay well clear of the 2018 remake. 14. Spirited Away (2001)
Studio Ghibli’s most recognizable movie is often cited as one of the great animations of the 21st century. Written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this gorgeous movie touches on many themes, from Western consumerism to environmental issues, and is packed full of Japanese mythology. Similar to Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the movie plays out like a fairytale, with young girl Chihiro Ogino trying to escape the clutches of the evil witch Yubaba, who has turned her parents into pigs. There really aren’t enough words to do this film justice, as it exceeds at every level. Not only is it visually stunning, but the story is well written and the voice acting superb. 15. Maleficent (2014)
The Disney movie Maleficent stars Angelina Jolie as the title character, a powerful fairy who is Queen of the Moors. When she is double-crossed by her former lover, she turns into an evil witch hellbent on revenge. This movie is much darker than your usual Disney movie, with Rick Baker’s special effects work some of the best he’s done since An American Werewolf in London. While visually spectacular, if there is a negative, it’s that the story waffles on a bit. Young kids might also get spooked by some of the scenes too. All that aside, Maleficent is a decent watch thanks to Jolie’s mesmerizing performance. 16. Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters
This might not be a great film, but it stars Jeremy Renner and Gemma Arterton as Hansel and Gretal, witch hunters who travel the world disposing of evil spellcasters. Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairytale, the siblings come to a town where they are hired to kill a witch who has been kidnapping the townsfolk’s children. Unlike your standard fairytale retelling, Hansel & Gretal: Witch Hunters is chock full of action. It’s quite violent and bloody, with the duo using a wide range of weapons to take out the witches who want them dead. This film is a fairytale masquerading as an action film, and we are here for that. If you can, seek out the extended cut which features more gore, more swearing, and more sex. 17. Into the Woods (2014)
Disney loves a good witch movie. Into the Woods is an adaptation of the musical of the same name starring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Anna Kendrick, Johnny Depp, and a resurgent Chris Pine. A childless couple seeks revenge on the witch who cursed them, unaware of the consequences their actions will have. The movie features a cast of famous Disney characters and some wonderful musical moments. Depending on your love of musicals, you’ll either love this film or hate it. Streep, who plays The Witch, delivers on all fronts, proving once again why she is one of the greats.
See more about - The 13 Best Horror Franchises To Binge This Halloween
Witches are having a bit of a moment. While they have been a large part of pop culture over the past few decades, more and more people are becoming Wiccans. And it’s not just in real life. Witches are once again infiltrating the big screen. Over the last decade, there have been more movies about witches than ever before.
While most older movies portray witches as ugly old women with long noses flying broomsticks and boiling humans in cauldrons, the witches in modern films are a lot more creepy. These supernatural beings are deadly, dangerous, and all-powerful with plans to take over the world, or at the very least kill a load of people.
While we want to shed a light on some of these new scary witches in contemporary movies, we also want to celebrate the classic witch films from yesterday year. So boil up something in your caldron, put your broomstick in the cupboard, and get ready for some thrills and kills with these spooky movies about witches.
17 Spooky Movies About Witches
Rotten Tomatoes Trailers/YouTube
1. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
No list featuring movies about witches would be complete without including The Wizard of Oz. The 1939 classic features one of the most notable witches in movie history; the green-faced Wicked Witch of the West. Dressed in typical witch fare (black gown, black pointy hat, and broomstick accessory), the Wicked Witch of the West set the template for all witch movies to come.
Margaret Hamilton’s outrageous performance as the witch is also commendable, with her cackling laugh and sneering delivering the highlight. While her death isn’t anything exciting (she melts away after water gets on her), the Wicked Witch is one of the main reasons why witches remain popular today.
2. Black Sunday (1960)
An oldie but a goodie, Black Sunday is an Italian horror masterpiece from legendary director Mario Bava. The movie concerns a young witch put to death by her brother who then returns two centuries later seeking vengeance. As is the case with Italian films from this era, there is lots of blood and guts throughout Black Sunday, with some disgusting scenes causing controversy with conservative audiences at that time.
Although it failed in Italy, the American release, which cut out much of the gore and sexually explicit scenes, was a moderate success. The movie has been retrospectively hailed as one of the best gothic horrors, with the black and white violence and detailed cinematography only adding to the movie’s legacy.
3. The Witches of Eastwick (1987)
Best known for the Mad Max series of movies, George Miller changed tact when he directed this fantasy comedy. Based on a book, The Witches of Eastwick focuses on three women (Susan Sarandon, Cher, and Michelle Pfeiffer) who are unaware that they are witches.
Dissatisfied with their lives, they are each seduced by a handsome newcomer (Jack Nicholson) in town who pits the women against each other for his amusement. When they learn of this, the trio team up and use their magic to take down Nicholson before it’s too late.
There’s a lot to like about this movie, with Miller proving he can do more than direct big action set pieces. All three female leads are wonderful, while Nicholson shows his comedic chops and is irresistibly charming despite his horrid personality.
4. Harry Potter Franchise (2001 – 2011)
While Harry Potter might be a wizard, there are plenty of witches in this much-loved fantasy franchise. While too hard to single out just one movie, we put them all together, with each film worth mentioning. You probably know the ins and outs of the story, but the basic premise of Harry Potter focuses on the title character and his two good friends – Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger – as they navigate wizarding school.
Each film slowly reveals more about Potter and his spellcasting brethren as the true nature of his purpose is revealed. All the movies were box office smashes and helped launch the careers of main stars Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, and Emma Watson.
People’s obsession with the series continues with the recent Fantastic Beast movies and author JK Rowling’s insistence on continuing to churn out below-par off-shoots of the series.
5. The Witch (2015)
The debut feature from Robert Eggers is a creepy story about a family in 1630s New English. When they are banished from their colony, they settle near the woods and find themselves terrorized by a witch who kidnaps their youngest son. The witch then makes the family’s daughter her next victim, trying to turn her into a witch.
The Witch is a gripping horror that slowly ramps up the tension as black billy goat Black Philip begins speaking to the family’s twin boys and all sorts of other weird stuff happens on the farm. Anya Taylor Joy is incredible in her first film performance while Eggers announces himself with this chilling New England folk tale.
6. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Not every movie about witches has to be a horror. Hocus Pocus is an early 90s comedy starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as a trio of witches. They find themselves accidentally resurrected by a brother and sister on Halloween in modern times. As they try and do all they can to survive this new world, including getting rid of all the kids, the sibling’s race against time to send them back to where they came from.
There are lots of laughs to be had while watching Hocus Pocus, with the three leads all exceptions, especially Midler. Although not a huge hit when released, the movie has become a cult classic over the years, with Disney recently announcing a sequel is in the works.
7. Sabrina the Teenage Witch (1996)
Before the successful TV show, there was this little-seen TV movie. Sabrina the Teenage Witch, based on the comic book series of the same name, stars Mellisa Joan Hart as, you guessed it, teen witch Sabrina.
Sent to live with her aunts in Riverdale, she discovers she is a witch on her 16th birthday. She then tries to use her newfound powers to make her crush like her, but without casting an actual love spell.
Similar to the series, this made-for-TV movie is part drama part comedy, with Hart well cast as good witch Sabrina. There are quite a few differences between the movie and TV show, but it’s a good starting place for anyone looking to learn more about the series.
8. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
While it might not be as scary to modern horror fans, when The Blair Witch Project arrived in 1999 it scared audiences shitless. Helping launch the found footage trend, the movie centers on three young teens who attempt to discover more about the Blair Witch, a local legend.
Delving deep into the Black Hills near Burkittsville, Maryland, the trio becomes lost as strange symbols being to appear in the woods. Shooting with hand-held cameras might give you nausea, but it only heightens the anxiety as you watch the three being chased through the dark and picked off one by one.
The Blair Witch is a horror classic with an evil witch you don’t actually see until the frightening climax, but that doesn’t decrease the fear levels watching this movie.
See more about - 12 Spine Chilling Horror Movies Like Midsommar
9. Sleepy Hollow (1999)
See more about - 12 Spine Chilling Horror Movies Like Midsommar
As this is a Tim Burton film, you know it’s going to be full of creepy imagery and a plot that leans into the occult. Based on Washington Irving’s 1820 short story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, the movie stars Johnny Depp (before the scandals) as Ichabod Crane, a quirky investigator sent to find out more about three headless bodies that have turned up in the town of Sleepy Hollow.
Believing the culprit to be the Headless Horseman, Crane joins together with local rich girl Katrina Van Tassel (Christina Ritchie) to find out what is really happening. Turns out there’s a witch involved as the victims pile up.
While not one of his best, Burton’s Sleepy Hollow is still an enjoyable watch with enough thrills and spills to keep your attention.
10. Practical Magic (1998)
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman play sisters who come from a long line of witches but are unaware of the powers they possess. Although they live apart from each other they share a strong bond that is tested when an evil spirit comes after them. Forced to learn about witchcraft and their abilities, the duo must battle the spirit before they find themselves banished from the world.
This is another movie about witches that wasn’t that well received when first released, but found an audience on DVD. Bullock and Kidman are wonderful and the movie has a good combination of romance and drama balanced out by some comedic moments.
The soundtrack is a must-listen and just as good as the film, with the likes of Stevie Nicks, Joni Mitchell, Elvis Presley, and Marvin Gaye all featuring.
11. The Witches (1990)
Many of Roald Dahl’s books have been turned into movies, with the adaptation of The Witches one of the best. Anjelica Huston is perfectly cast as the bad witch, the Grand High Witch, who plans to turn all the children in England into mice. Orphan Luke, now living with his grandmother Helga, discovers the witches’ evil plan and must try and stop them. Unfortunately, things don’t exactly go to plan, with Luke turning into a mouse before he can stop them from putting their plan into action.
The Witches is a fantastic movie for all ages that combines a spooky story about witches with plenty of humor. The special effects for when the witches turn from their human form into what they actually look like is commendable, with the witches all appearing terrifying.
12. The Craft (1996)
The mid-90s saw a lot of witch-centric movies released, with The Craft aimed at teen audiences. Four young outsiders (Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell, and Rachel True) become fast friends as they look to witchcraft as a way to make their lives better. As their powers increase, so do their egos. With one of the witches craving more power and two of the others happy to go along, it’s up to Tunney to stop them before too many people get hurt.
A big hit when released, The Craft captures the magic of the 90s generation (Balk and Campbell were at their peak) in all its glory. As is the case with most films from that time period, the cast is young and attractive, the story fast-moving, and the soundtrack gold, with the majority of the tracks being old songs covered by new artists.
13. Suspiria (1977)
Arguably Dario Argento’s crowning glory, Suspiria is a nightmare trip unlike anything you will have seen before. American dance student Suzy Bannion transfers to a German dance school where a bunch of horrific murders have occurred. She soon finds herself drawn into the mystery and discovers a supernatural conspiracy that could lead to the end of days, or something along those lines.
Suspiria put Argento on the map thanks to its gory violence, stylistic direction, and pulsating soundtrack performed by Italian heavy rock act Goblin. The film is visually striking and despite the muddled plot, will leave you on a knifes edge as Bannion tries to understand what is happening. Lookout for a young Udo Kier in one of his breakthrough roles and stay well clear of the 2018 remake.
14. Spirited Away (2001)
Studio Ghibli’s most recognizable movie is often cited as one of the great animations of the 21st century. Written and directed by Hayao Miyazaki, this gorgeous movie touches on many themes, from Western consumerism to environmental issues, and is packed full of Japanese mythology.
Similar to Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the movie plays out like a fairytale, with young girl Chihiro Ogino trying to escape the clutches of the evil witch Yubaba, who has turned her parents into pigs. There really aren’t enough words to do this film justice, as it exceeds at every level. Not only is it visually stunning, but the story is well written and the voice acting superb.
15. Maleficent (2014)
The Disney movie Maleficent stars Angelina Jolie as the title character, a powerful fairy who is Queen of the Moors. When she is double-crossed by her former lover, she turns into an evil witch hellbent on revenge. This movie is much darker than your usual Disney movie, with Rick Baker’s special effects work some of the best he’s done since An American Werewolf in London.
While visually spectacular, if there is a negative, it’s that the story waffles on a bit. Young kids might also get spooked by some of the scenes too. All that aside, Maleficent is a decent watch thanks to Jolie’s mesmerizing performance.
16. Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters
This might not be a great film, but it stars Jeremy Renner and Gemma Arterton as Hansel and Gretal, witch hunters who travel the world disposing of evil spellcasters. Inspired by the Brothers Grimm fairytale, the siblings come to a town where they are hired to kill a witch who has been kidnapping the townsfolk’s children.
Unlike your standard fairytale retelling, Hansel & Gretal: Witch Hunters is chock full of action. It’s quite violent and bloody, with the duo using a wide range of weapons to take out the witches who want them dead. This film is a fairytale masquerading as an action film, and we are here for that.
If you can, seek out the extended cut which features more gore, more swearing, and more sex.
17. Into the Woods (2014)
Disney loves a good witch movie. Into the Woods is an adaptation of the musical of the same name starring Meryl Streep, Emily Blunt, James Corden, Anna Kendrick, Johnny Depp, and a resurgent Chris Pine. A childless couple seeks revenge on the witch who cursed them, unaware of the consequences their actions will have.
The movie features a cast of famous Disney characters and some wonderful musical moments. Depending on your love of musicals, you’ll either love this film or hate it. Streep, who plays The Witch, delivers on all fronts, proving once again why she is one of the greats.
See more about - The 13 Best Horror Franchises To Binge This Halloween
See more about - The 13 Best Horror Franchises To Binge This Halloween
