In 1990, Nicolas Roeg released the children’s horror film called The Witches. The premise was spine-chilling: witches existed everywhere and despised children — so much so in fact that they turned them into mice to squash them.
Most older versions of horror films have low-quality cinematography that, in this era of impeccable quality filmmaking, can be distracting from the horror-vibe. And though it’s true that the older version packs a lot of tacky special effects, it’s still enough to scare any child away from stranger danger.
Now, Robert Zemeckis has adapted The Witches with the same story, only increased special effects and a faster pace to further engage children in the story and relay important messaging.
The film follows a boy who goes to live with his grandmother after his parents die. However, when a coven of witches led by the most powerful witch in the world turns the boy and his friends into mice, he and his grandmother must work to figure out how to change him back.
The ending is different from the original, which serves to change up yet another incredibly similar adaptation of an already created film. It’s also much faster-paced, with several more jokes and fun moments to engage the audience rather than its slow-paced predecessor.
Part of what made the revamped version so great was the cast. Octavia Spencer as the grandma brought the most calming and lovely energy to her role, enhanced with the adorable and loveable nature of Jahzir Bruno, who played her grandson. There was also the iconic Stanley Tucci, who was hilarious and added a spice of fun to the film.
What’s even more exciting is watching Anne Hathaway as the Grand High Witch, because it’s one of the first times we see Hathaway in a role that isn’t a damsel in distress or the heroine. She does a fantastic job of being menacing and instilling fear into children’s hearts.
More than anything, the film packs a few important messages. Not only about stranger danger and avoiding taking candy from people you don’t know (which is always an important lesson for children to learn), but also about acceptance. The film continuously reminds the audience that it doesn’t matter what you look like, the people who love you will always love you. It’s a very sweet message to pass along to younger kids in the age of Instagram likes and facetuning.
Zemeckis’ adaptation of The Witches is definitely a great family friendly watch to get you in the mood for spooky season. However, if you want to watch the film with a bit more of a scary-edge instead of a funny edge, watch the original version.
