Some may claim that witchy movies are only for the spooky season, and while it’s true this list was conjured just in time for All Hallows' Eve, we believe any time is perfect for a little magic on screen!
So, grab your broomsticks and popcorn, witches! There’s nothing like curling up with a film that casts a spell over your senses. Now, forgive our indecision, we simply couldn’t rank them. But enjoy the New England Fable List. Trust us, we’re experts in all things magical, if we do say so ourselves.
The Witch (2015)
Ah, witches, it would be almost too obvious not to begin with Robert Eggers' The Witch, a film so entwined with our craft, it has even inspired some of our own magical creations. And let’s not forget, this haunting tale unfolds right here in New England. What more could we ask for?
Set in the 1630s, this film weaves an eerie tale of a family spiraling into madness, as they’re haunted by dark forces lurking within the forest. Black magic whispers on the wind, isolation tightens its grip, and the unsettling presence of a goat named Black Phillip looms ever closer. It’s a slow-burning descent into paranoia and terror, perfect for those witches who crave their thrills with a dark, unnerving edge.
Practical Magic (1998)
My dears, don’t be fooled by the critics’ grumblings! Practical Magic is a true gem, starring none other than Nicole Kidman, Sandra Bullock, and the iconic Stockard Channing. If you seek a tale of witchy sisterhood, sprinkled with romance and a dash of charm, this film will enchant you every time.
The Owens sisters, two witches bound by a family curse, must navigate love and life while facing the tricky task of finding their own happy endings. With potions brewing, moonlit rituals, and a cozy Victorian house that every witch dreams of, Practical Magic offers a delightful blend of spellwork, humor, and heart. Let the critics grumble elsewhere, they clearly don’t know how to enjoy a good time!
The Craft (1996)
Let’s be honest, witches, The Craft is a bit of a chaotic spell. But for those of us who came of age in the ‘90s, it holds a special place in our hearts.
Four teenage outcasts discover supernatural powers beyond their control, and things take a dark turn faster than you can say "light as a feather, stiff as a board." This cult classic is a whirlwind of friendship, vengeance, and the perils of wielding magic far greater than one can handle. It’s the ultimate witchy teen flick, blending dark thrills with a dose of nostalgia.
The Crucible (1996)
Witches, gather 'round for a tale steeped in fear, power, and the infamous witch trials of Salem. The Crucible, based on Arthur Miller’s iconic play, takes us deep into the madness of a community torn apart by suspicion, with accusations flying like curses in the air. Daniel Day-Lewis gives a performance that crackles with intensity, and the incomparable Winona Ryder, a witchy favorite of ours, weaves her own dark magic on screen.
No spells or broomsticks here, my dears, this is a raw, dramatic descent into paranoia, lies, and the consequences of unchecked power. And lest we forget, it all unfolds in New England! Extra points for witchy relevance, indeed!
Suspiria (2018)
Now, witches, brace yourselves, we're about to ruffle the feathers of those devoted to the original. And yes, Dario Argento is a legend, and his Suspiria is a masterpiece. But Luca Guadagnino's 2018 remake casts an entirely different spell, one that is haunting in its own right. The two films exist in completely different realms of magic.
First off, Tilda Swinton is a force to be reckoned with, embodying not one, but three roles in this eerie tale (we won’t spoil the second or third for you, don’t worry). Guadagnino transforms 1977 Berlin into a chilling, dreary stage, a far cry from the technicolor dreamscape of Argento’s original. And while some may cry heresy at this shift, the remake conjures a darkness that is uniquely unsettling, a bewitching reimagining that leaves a lasting mark.
The Blair Witch Project (1999)
The Blair Witch Project may have become the target of satire shortly after its release, with some mocking it as nothing more than a what we now call "walking simulators." But don't let the naysayers fool you, this film terrified countless souls, many of whom likely now laugh to hide their own lingering fear.
This movie works its magic slowly, weaving tension like a spider spins its web, until you're trapped in its grip. And then comes the ending, oh, the ending, that sends shivers straight to your bones. It’s like a campfire tale come to life, giving you that haunting feeling that the monster was there with you all along, just waiting for the right moment to strike.
Kiki's Delivery Service (1989)
Prepare to be enchanted by the sheer charm of this Miyazaki masterpiece! Kiki’s Delivery Service is a heartwarming tale that captures the essence of a young witch's journey as she learns to embrace independence, friendship, and self-discovery.
From the very first scene, you’re whisked away on a wonderfully magical adventure, leaving you with a nostalgic yearning for a place you’ve never set foot in. This delightful film is the perfect feel-good offering for witches of all ages, reminding us that with a little courage and a sprinkle of magic, anything is possible. So, hop on your broomstick and let the adventure take flight, joy and wonder await you in every frame!
Throne of Blood (1957)
Beloved witches, we could have settled on any adaptation of Macbeth simply for its enchanting witches. Yet, Throne of Blood rises to the occasion as an Akira Kurosawa classic, transporting us to Feudal Japan while echoing the dark tones of Medieval Scotland. And we must mention, the witch scene is positively spine-chilling!
If this particular brew doesn’t tickle your fancy, worry not! Any version of Macbeth will do, for it is the witches who weave the true magic of the tale. They are not just pivotal to the plot but also offer a haunting portrayal that lingers in our minds. Thanks to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, we’ve conjured much of our imagery around witches and their potions, a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate us.
Mary and the Witch's Flower (2017)
None too soon, we have another enchanting anime from the talented team that branched off from Studio Ghibli to form Studio Ponoc. In Mary and the Witch's Flower, a young girl stumbles upon a magical flower that grants her the powers of a witch for one extraordinary night.
Just like Kiki, this film is brimming with charm and adventure, showcasing exquisite animation and boundless imagination! As Mary embarks on her whimsical journey, she discovers not only the magic of her newfound abilities but also the importance of courage, friendship, and believing in oneself. This delightful tale reminds us that magic is not just about spells and potions, but also about the strength that lies within us all.
The Witches of Eastwick (1987)
The Witches of Eastwick is a devilishly fun romp through magic and mischief. Set in a quaint New England town, three women, played by the captivating Cher, Susan Sarandon, and Michelle Pfeiffer, find themselves unlocking their supernatural powers after conjuring a mysterious and charming stranger. What follows is a whirlwind of magic, desire, and chaos as they embrace their newfound abilities and confront the consequences. This film blends humor, witchcraft, and empowerment, making it a wickedly delightful addition to any witch's movie night!
Thank you for joining us on this enchanting journey through our spellbinding list of witchy films! We hope you found a few magical treasures to add to your viewing cauldron in between your crafting.
And mark your calendars for the winter solstice, dear witches! You might think the magic dims as the nights grow longer, but we assure you, there are plenty of captivating movies waiting to be unearthed for our next winter themed list.
Our Favorite Witch Movies
