9 witch-centric horror movies to watch this fall

As a lifelong aficionado of the macabre and all things supernatural, I must say that the following films have left quite an impression on me. Each one offers a unique take on witchcraft and the darker aspects of our collective folklore.

Autumn is nearly upon us, and it won’t be long before Halloween arrives! As fresh horror films hit the cinemas, let’s not forget to rewatch some old favorites. The witch-themed horror genre has a special place in our hearts, and it’s high time we give it more appreciation.

While not all the films on this list are strictly horror, they do incorporate scary or eerie themes suitable for Halloween. Here’s a selection of witch-themed movies you might enjoy around this spooky season.

Elvira: Mistress of the Dark (1988)

The movie titled “Elvira: Mistress of the Dark” – a blend of horror and comedy – has garnered diverse opinions but has successfully built a devoted fanbase known as a cult following. Given that Elvira is a well-recognized Halloween figure, it’s highly recommended to watch this film during the Halloween season.

Following news of her great-aunt’s passing, Elvira anticipates receiving a substantial inheritance. Contrary to her expectations, she instead receives an old, dilapidated mansion in a quaint but unfriendly town. This town, including her uncle, displays disdain and criticism towards Elvira’s lifestyle. Unbeknownst to Elvira, her uncle is plotting to seize her aunt’s grimoire (spell book) and cause chaos within the town. To thwart his plans, Elvira must delve into a touch of mystical abilities.

The Witches of Eastwick (1987)

The movie “The Witches of Eastwick” is a humorous take on the supernatural, adapted from John Updike’s 1984 novel, featuring actresses like Susan Sarandon, Michelle Pfeiffer, Cher, and Jack Nicholson in the lead roles.

In a quaint little town reside three long-time friends: Sarandon, Pfeiffer, and Cher. Each has suffered the loss of a significant other in their lives. Their days were monotonous until an enigmatic stranger (Nicholson) settles into the community. He starts dating all three women, eventually proposing they share his home. As time passes, he discloses that each possesses supernatural abilities and they are actually witches. With their powers growing stronger, they become increasingly suspicious of his motives and intentions regarding their newfound magical prowess.

The Craft (1996)

In simpler terms, “The Craft” leans more towards the horror genre compared to some other films in the list. Known for its widespread popularity as a witch-themed movie, “The Craft” can also be categorized as having gothic elements.

At a newly-transferred school, Sarah encounters a clique of marginalized girls who have been whispered about as witches. As she develops friendships with them, she uncovers the truth in the gossip and discovers their magical abilities. However, these powers start to grow increasingly ominous, causing Sarah discomfort. It falls upon her shoulders to halt the misuse of their powers and prevent any further mishaps.

Suspiria (1977) and (2018)

The original Suspiria, a horror-mystery film, debuted in 1977, while a remake by Luca Guadagnino came out in 2018. Both versions share a common thread of supernatural elements, specifically witchcraft, that permeate the storyline.

1977’s adaptation finds me, a dance enthusiast, relocating to Germany, enrolling in a prestigious ballet academy. The very first night there, I stumble upon a student hurriedly fleeing the school. The following morning, I discover this same student was tragically murdered, leaving an unnerving chill in the air. Strange occurrences soon follow: frequent bouts of illness and eerie sounds echo through the halls. As days pass, it dawns on me that this ballet school conceals secrets so ominous they could very well claim my life.

The Blair Witch Project (1999)

If “The Blair Witch Project” hadn’t been part of the list, where would it be located? “The Blair Witch Project” revolutionized the horror film industry and the found-footage genre. When it was initially released, viewers were genuinely scared and even thought it was real.

A group of three aspiring filmmakers are planning to make a documentary centered around the Blair Witch legend. Venturing into a secluded town and exploring the woods independently, their journey takes an ominous twist. Disoriented and finding themselves adrift, they start encountering strange occurrences that lead them to ponder whether the witch is truly real.

The Witch (2015)

“The Witch

In the 1630s New England, a family grapples with grief after their youngest son’s untimely demise. The parents suspect their eldest child, Thomasin (played by Anya Taylor-Joy), who was in charge of supervising him, and blame her for his death. As peculiar incidents multiply, the other siblings cast suspicion on Thomasin, accusing her of practicing witchcraft.

Practical Magic (1998)

In the ’90s, there was another well-liked witch movie titled “Practical Magic.” The film’s appeal can be attributed to its talented cast, including Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Stockard Channing, and Dianne Wiest. Interestingly, a sequel to this enchanting tale is currently in the works after many years.

Sally (Bullock) and Gillian (Kidman) hail from a lineage steeped in witchcraft. A curse dating back to their forebear has been cast upon the women of the Owen family: any woman who falls in love will find her lover doomed to meet an untimely death. As they mature, both sisters succumb to romance, yet the man Gillian selects proves to be a cold-blooded murderer, while Sally unintentionally takes his life. In a desperate attempt to resurrect him, they resort to witchcraft; however, it serves only to amplify his malevolence.

The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)

In my view, the film titled “The Autopsy of Jane Doe” is a little-acknowledged witch-themed horror masterpiece. Not only does it deliver chilling terror, but it also offers a captivating exploration into the world of witchcraft.

A father and his son operate their family mortuary, and one day receive a woman with unknown identity (referred to as “Jane Doe”). During an autopsy, they discover unusual reasons for her death in what appears to be an unharmed body. As they delve deeper, it becomes clear that this isn’t just any victim, and her demise might have been part of a ritualistic practice.

The Love Witch (2016)

In a different wording, “The Love Witch” can be categorized as a blend of horror and comedy. This film has garnered acclaim for its stunning visuals and the captivating acting delivered by Elaine, portrayed by Samantha Robinson.

As a gamer, let me spin this tale from my perspective: I’m a young sorceress, Elaine, navigating the complexities of love in an enchanted world. Brewing potions to charm men seemed like the perfect solution, but alas, the magic sometimes backfired, leading to unwanted attention. The man of my dreams finally appeared, but my unquenchable thirst for affection turned into an all-consuming obsession. This obsession eventually twisted me into a darker version of myself, driving me towards madness and ultimately, deadly actions.

2024-09-18 23:25