Accio movies! There is something very real and unreal about the magic that we can’t really get over.
Throughout the world’s story, witches have come and gone. The good witch vs the bad witch story has been used even in fairytales to mimic mankind and its fallacies.
There is a lot in history that talks about witchcraft and wizardry. Like the famous, much-obsessed Salem trials as the Boston Globe once put it, “Salem owns Halloween like the North Pole owns Christmas”.
Hollywood has forever kept the promise and hence the creation of some of the finest classics and definitely a bunch of the * the ones that shall not be named*(there are no bad movies, only movies that are not on our lists).
Pop culture obsession with this cult however doesn’t stick to a single genre. You get horror, comedy, romance, thrillers, and even drama.
Time to give Witch movies the real honour they deserve Here is a list of ENTOIN's top Witch movies ever made.
AnimationAdventureFamily
Director:
Hayao Miyazaki
Release Date:
Fri Mar 28 2003
Star Cast:
Daveigh Chase, Suzanne Pleshette, Miyu Irino
Budget:
$19,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$357,287,850
Hayao Miyazaki's brilliance shines through in every film he creates, and Spirited Away is no exception. The story begins with ten-year-old Chihiro and her parents, who stumble upon a mysterious tunnel while moving to their new home. After exploring, her parents are transformed into pigs by an otherworldly force.
Trapped in a magical bathhouse owned by a cunning witch, Chihiro is forced to work there in hopes of saving her parents. She is given the new name Sen as she navigates the enchanting—and often dangerous—world of spirits.
The film draws inspiration from ancient Japanese folklore, where the phenomenon of 'spiriting away' refers to people mysteriously vanishing after displeasing the gods. Chihiro’s journey immerses viewers in a richly detailed world that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy.
With themes of determination, love, and enduring morals, Spirited Away stands as an animated masterpiece, enchanting audiences of all ages with its heartfelt story and breathtaking visuals.
Recommended:
DramaHorror
Director:
Roman Polanski
Release Date:
Wed Jun 12 1968
Star Cast:
Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, Ruth Gordon
Budget:
$2,300,000 (estimated)
Rosemary (Mia Farrow) only hoped for a peaceful life and a happy family, but fate—and her mysterious new neighbors—had something else in store for her.
Adapted from Ira Levin’s novel, this film steadily builds suspense, making you question the people next door and leaving you on edge throughout.
At first, the Bramford seems like an idyllic apartment building until Rosemary slowly realizes just how much she’s sacrificed without knowing it.
Death, destruction, nightmares, and seemingly friendly neighbors who might not be so trustworthy surround her. What’s truly disturbing is Rosemary’s baby—best experienced without spoilers.
Witchcraft, cults, and relentless horror combine in this chilling film, making it a haunting must-watch—but definitely not for the faint of heart.
Recommended:
AdventureFamilyFantasy
Director:
Victor Fleming, King Vidor
Release Date:
Fri Aug 25 1939
Star Cast:
Judy Garland, Frank Morgan, Ray Bolger
Budget:
$2,777,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$25,637,669
"The Wizard of Oz" stands as a timeless classic, seamlessly blending the magic of storytelling, unforgettable characters, and enchanting visuals.
This film epitomizes the genre—many even say it laid the very foundations for how witches would be portrayed in cinema. The Wicked Witch of the West set the precedent for witch fashion and mannerisms for generations to come.
Judy Garland's portrayal of Dorothy is legendary, and the entire cast shines, lending enduring charm to this beloved adaptation. Like a fine wine, "The Wizard of Oz" only grows finer with age.
As Dorothy and her friends confront magical challenges in the land of Oz, viewers embark on their own journey of wonder and discovery.
Despite its flaws, the film remains a lovingly crafted masterpiece that introduced a sense of morality and whimsical surprise to the realm of witchcraft fantasy. Its story continues to reveal new meanings with each viewing, inviting audiences of all ages to revisit its magic.
Recommended:
AnimationAdventureFamily
Director:
Hayao Miyazaki
Release Date:
Fri Jun 17 2005
Star Cast:
Chieko Baishô, Takuya Kimura, Tatsuya Gashûin
Budget:
$24,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$237,543,524
"Howl's Moving Castle" stands as one of Japan's most financially successful films, showcasing the brilliance of Miyazaki's masterful storytelling. Like his acclaimed work, "Spirited Away," this film delivers valuable lessons in a subtle, non-preachy way.
The animation is rich with intricate details, creating a mesmerizing visual experience that is both enchanting and unforgettable.
The story follows Sophie, a young hat maker who is transformed into a ninety-year-old woman by a witch’s curse. In her quest for a cure, she seeks help from Howl, an enigmatic wizard she encounters along her journey.
Within Howl’s magical moving castle, we meet Calcifer, the fire demon who is the castle's true source of power. The captivating characters and their intertwining stories add depth and magic to the adventure.
Sophie’s journey to break the curse and save her kingdom weaves a memorable tale full of moral lessons that leave a lasting impression on the audience.
ComedyDrama
Director:
Rungano Nyoni
Release Date:
Fri Sep 7 2018
Star Cast:
Maggie Mulubwa, Henry B.J. Phiri, Nancy Murilo
Box Office (Worldwide):
$182,462
"I Am Not A Witch" offers a refreshingly original perspective from one of cinema's most promising emerging voices. The film tackles a deeply unsettling topic—the accusation of witchcraft—with a realism that is striking and, in many tragic cases, true to life.
The story follows young Shula, who is accused of being a witch. She finds it almost impossible to defend herself, and the reason for her struggle is slowly revealed throughout the narrative.
Rather than traditional depictions, these witches are believed to bring rain and read minds. In one audaciously comic moment, Shula is even pressed to expose a thief, adding touches of absurd humor to the film.
Yet, beneath this comedic veneer lies a critique of harsh realities—child exploitation, systemic oppression, and the enslavement of the vulnerable.
The film powerfully exposes how accusations of witchcraft are used to justify the subjugation of women, revealing that such injustices are not mere fantasy but an unfortunate truth in many societies.
DramaFantasyHorror
Director:
Robert Eggers
Release Date:
Fri Feb 19 2016
Star Cast:
Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, Kate Dickie
Budget:
$4,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$40,423,945
If you're searching for a horror film that will leave you deeply unsettled, look no further—this is an experience you'll be thinking about long after the credits roll.
Robert Eggers' debut feature blurs the lines between fiction and reality, immersing you in a world where horror feels terrifyingly real.
Blending religious paranoia with supernatural dread, the film gradually gets under your skin, challenging your grip on sanity with every scene.
The story follows a Puritan family, exiled from their community due to religious differences, as they settle near an ominous forest.
When the youngest child vanishes while in the care of the eldest sibling, a consuming fear of witchcraft and Satanism takes hold. This creeping terror extends to the viewer, making the film a haunting tribute to 17th-century superstitions.
Horror
Director:
Sam Raimi
Release Date:
Fri May 29 2009
Star Cast:
Alison Lohman, Justin Long, Ruth Livier
Budget:
$30,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$90,842,646
Though not a traditional witch movie, "Drag Me to Hell" fits comfortably within the genre thanks to its chilling supernatural elements. Director Sam Raimi skillfully weaves horror with suspense, creating an unforgettable cinematic experience for fans of the macabre.
The story unfolds when a séance goes awry, prompting the determined San Dena to confront the powerful demon she once faced. Years later, a young bank loan officer is placed under a terrifying curse after denying a customer's plea, and she becomes relentlessly tormented by a vengeful spirit.
Plagued by insomnia and menacing visions, the protagonist is drawn into a nightmarish struggle. With San Dena's assistance, they bravely confront the sinister force, yet nothing can truly prepare them for the horrors that follow.
This relentless curse drags its victims toward the brink of hell. While witchcraft isn’t the central focus, the film’s dark, supernatural terror is powerful enough to shake even the most steadfast mind.
ComedyHorrorRomance
Director:
Anna Biller
Release Date:
Fri Mar 10 2017
Star Cast:
Samantha Robinson, Jeffrey Vincent Parise, Laura Waddell
Box Office (Worldwide):
$258,576
"The Love Witch" is a visually stunning film that captivates viewers with its gorgeous 35mm cinematography, carefully crafted makeup, and enchanting soundtrack. Every detail immerses you in a surreal world where style and atmosphere take center stage, though some critics noted the plot felt lacking.
The story follows Elaine, an urban witch who moves into a new home in search of her perfect lover. As she settles in, she wastes no time weaving spells and seducing men from various walks of life, tragically leaving a trail of mysterious deaths behind her.
Her latest relationship unravels when her boyfriend discovers the dark truth, resulting in his own devastating fate. Ultimately, the film explores Elaine's insatiable longing for true love—a desire that leads only to madness and heartbreak.
Directed by Anna Biller, the movie is lauded for its innovative techniques and bold feminist perspective. Yet, some viewers are left thinking that its mesmerizing visuals and thematic artistry might have benefitted from a tighter edit.
Drama
Director:
Kasi Lemmons
Release Date:
Fri Nov 7 1997
Star Cast:
Samuel L. Jackson, Jurnee Smollett, Meagan Good
Budget:
$6,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$14,842,388
Set in the sultry Louisiana heat, "Eve's Bayou" follows 10-year-old Eve Batiste as she uncovers a shocking secret about her outwardly perfect family. Her beloved father, esteemed in their community, hides a tangle of infidelities that shatters her childhood innocence.
Throughout one transformative summer, hidden truths rise to the surface, exposing the fragile bonds that tie the Batiste family together. Anchored in a vibrant 1960s Louisiana Creole town, the film explores themes of family secrets, inherited pain, and the turbulent journey to adulthood.
"Eve's Bayou" seamlessly blends magical realism with rich Creole traditions, creating an atmosphere that lingers long after the film ends. The movie earned critical acclaim for its evocative storytelling and outstanding performances, especially Jurnee Smollett's portrayal of young Eve.
Defying expectations for an independent film, "Eve's Bayou" achieved impressive box office success, solidifying its place among the most memorable witch movies of all time.
HorrorMystery
Director:
Daniel Myrick, Eduardo Sánchez
Release Date:
Fri Jul 30 1999
Star Cast:
Heather Donahue, Michael C. Williams, Joshua Leonard
Budget:
$60,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$248,639,099
"The Blair Witch Project" stands out not just as a horror film, but as a groundbreaking experiment in filmmaking and internet marketing. Its innovative campaign convinced much of the world that its story of supernatural terror was real, blurring the line between fiction and reality.
The film follows three student filmmakers—Heather, Josh, and Mike—as they venture into the woods to document the legend of the Blair Witch. What begins as a simple project soon descends into a terrifying ordeal as the group becomes hopelessly lost and engulfed by mounting fear.
The tension escalates as the students find themselves trapped in their own narrative, facing a tragic and unnerving fate. The less you know, the better—the suspense is best experienced firsthand.
As a pioneer of the found footage genre, "The Blair Witch Project" set a new standard for horror and authenticity. It's an absolute must-watch for fans seeking a chilling and immersive cinematic experience.
AdventureFamilyFantasy
Director:
Andrew Adamson
Release Date:
Fri Dec 9 2005
Star Cast:
Tilda Swinton, Georgie Henley, William Moseley
Budget:
$180,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$745,013,115
For fans of C.S. Lewis, the magical world of Narnia is unforgettable, and "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" largely succeeds in bringing this beloved realm to life on the big screen.
No film adaptation can ever fully capture the depth and wonder of the original books, but this movie comes very close, charming audiences with its faithful storytelling.
The adventure begins when four siblings, displaced by war, find themselves living in the countryside, only to stumble into the enchanting, mysterious world of Narnia through a wardrobe.
As they join the epic battle against the White Witch and her endless winter, the film delivers an engaging and family-friendly fantasy that stands strong even with a few flaws.
Tilda Swinton’s performance as the elegant yet chilling White Witch is particularly outstanding, bringing her sorcery and presence vividly to life.
The magical Turkish delight, a key temptation for the children, adds to the charm and continues to captivate viewers. While the series contains three films, it’s the first installment that truly shines.
The other movies in the series include "The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian" (2008) and "The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader" (2010).
AdventureComedyDrama
Director:
Rob Marshall
Release Date:
Thu Dec 25 2014
Star Cast:
Anna Kendrick, Meryl Streep, Chris Pine
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$212,902,372
"Into the Woods" offers a fresh and unexpected twist on classic fairy tales, seamlessly weaving together the stories of Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Cinderella in a shared adventure.
The tale follows a baker and his wife, whose wish for a child is thwarted by a witch's curse—one rooted in a past misdeed by the baker's father.
The witch promises to lift the curse if the couple can gather four magical items for her potion: a cow as white as milk, a cape as red as blood, hair as yellow as corn, and a slipper as pure as gold—all without her direct involvement.
The movie introduces us to a collection of unlikely heroes in a world far darker and more unsettling than your typical Disney story. With its haunting tone, "Into the Woods" remains a standout, especially in its celebrated theatrical version.
ComedyFamilyFantasy
Director:
Kirk Jones
Release Date:
Fri Jan 27 2006
Star Cast:
Emma Thompson, Colin Firth, Angela Lansbury
Budget:
$25,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$123,276,807
"Nanny McPhee" (2005) is a family comedy that follows the magical Nanny McPhee as she transforms the lives of seven unruly children. Using her mysterious powers, Nanny McPhee teaches important life lessons to both the children and their father while bringing warmth and order to their chaotic home.
The film combines charm, humor, and magical elements, making it a captivating experience for viewers of all ages. Emma Thompson delivers a memorable performance as the enigmatic nanny, ensuring "Nanny McPhee" remains a beloved classic in the world of witch-themed movies.
ComedyFantasyHorror
Director:
George Miller
Release Date:
Fri Jun 12 1987
Star Cast:
Jack Nicholson, Cher, Susan Sarandon
Budget:
$22,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$63,766,510
"The Witches of Eastwick" effortlessly blends wicked humor with horror, creating an entertaining and unforgettable experience for viewers. This film stands out for its unique take on magic and mischief in a contemporary setting.
The plot unfolds when three witches, yearning for the perfect man, summon a mysterious stranger who might be the devil himself. Their lives are soon turned upside down as Daryl Van Horne guides them to embrace their powers fully.
With standout performances—especially from Jack Nicholson—and visually striking scenes for its 1987 release, the movie delivers a modern-day fairy tale with a witchy twist. Even references to the infamous Salem witch trials add a fun historical layer.
Director George Miller showcases his signature style through creative cinematography and impeccable casting, making "The Witches of Eastwick" a must-watch for fans of witches and dark comedies alike.
DramaFantasyHorror
Director:
Luca Guadagnino
Release Date:
Fri Nov 2 2018
Star Cast:
Chloë Grace Moretz, Tilda Swinton, Doris Hick
Budget:
$20,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$7,942,093
If you're a fan of Dakota Johnson, "Suspiria" is an experience you won't want to miss. This film takes you into uncharted territory with its haunting visuals and captivating performances.
Drawing inspiration from the iconic 1977 Italian classic directed by Dario Argento, "Suspiria" centers on a prestigious Berlin dance academy—one ominously controlled by a secretive coven of witches. The setting adds an eerie, atmospheric layer to the story.
The chilling winter aesthetics pull you into a world unlike typical horror films such as "The Conjuring." However, its intense and unconventional style means this unsettling masterpiece may not appeal to everyone.
AnimationAdventureComedy
Director:
Robert Stevenson, Ward Kimball
Release Date:
Mon Dec 13 1971
Star Cast:
Angela Lansbury, David Tomlinson, Roddy McDowall
Budget:
$20,000,000 (estimated)
Memorable tunes like 'Portobello Road' and 'Eglantine' still linger in the minds of audiences, proving just how unforgettable this film's music is.
Although a classic, this Disney magical adventure never loses its charm. Angela Lansbury shines as Miss Price, a woman learning witchcraft through a correspondence course while World War II rages on.
Three young children come to stay with Miss Price, seeking refuge from the London air raids. Together with Doctor Brown, they embark on an enchanting journey full of surprises.
The characters soar through the skies, explore underwater lagoons, enter fantastic storybook worlds, and even find themselves caught up in a battle. The magical quest keeps viewers delighted throughout.
Though it may not appeal to everyone, this film is perfect for children. Its heartwarming story, captivating fantasy elements, and strong relationships make it a beloved favorite among young audiences.
HorrorMystery
Director:
Brett Pierce, Drew T. Pierce
Release Date:
Fri May 1 2020
Star Cast:
John-Paul Howard, Piper Curda, Jamison Jones
Budget:
$1,200,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$4,369,493
"The Wretched" stands out as a skillfully crafted and chilling horror film, featuring a mesmerizing portrayal of a witch. While many horror movies follow familiar patterns, the subtle intricacies of this one make it uniquely captivating.
After his recent divorce, Ben Shaw moves in with his parents and soon senses something is amiss in his new neighborhood. His suspicions grow as he uncovers the terrifying presence of a witch known for possessing people and "feeding on the forgotten."
As Ben starts to notice people vanishing from memory, he finds himself drawing closer to danger and his own potential demise.
The film concludes on an unresolved, haunting note—a signature of suspenseful horror thrillers. Although the story could have benefited from stronger character development, the exceptional cinematography and artistic direction are noteworthy.
The depiction of the witch and her eerie forest setting is both creepy and masterfully executed, adding significant depth to the film's atmosphere.
However, richer character interactions would have elevated the overall tone even further.
ComedyFamilyFantasy
Director:
Eli Roth
Release Date:
Fri Sep 21 2018
Star Cast:
Jack Black, Cate Blanchett, Owen Vaccaro
Budget:
$42,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$131,523,093
"The House with a Clock in Its Walls" (2018) is a fantasy adventure film that centers on a young orphan named Lewis, who goes to live with his mysterious uncle in a creaky old mansion. Lewis soon discovers a hidden world of magic inside the house.
He learns that his uncle and their neighbor are both witches, and he becomes involved in the urgent quest to find a magical clock with dangerous powers concealed within the mansion's walls. Filled with whimsical moments and thrilling suspense, the film is an enchanting addition to the genre.
DramaFantasyHorror
Director:
Andrew Fleming
Release Date:
Fri May 3 1996
Star Cast:
Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell
Budget:
$15,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$24,819,936
When the unusual teenager Sarah Bailey moves in with her dad and stepmom, she hardly expects to find other misfits who share her unique qualities.
Soon after her arrival, Sarah's ability to make pencils float catches the attention of three girls, who realize she is the missing fourth member for their coven.
They begin to use their supernatural powers to seek revenge against the mean girls in town and pursue personal desires, but their actions soon start to unravel friendships and spiral out of control.
The result is wickedly entertaining, and the skillful artistry behind the film truly shines through.
FantasyHorror
Director:
Stan Winston
Release Date:
Fri Jan 13 1989
Star Cast:
Lance Henriksen, Jeff East, John D'Aquino
Budget:
$3,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$4,385,516
"Pumpkinhead" is a chilling tale of vengeance intertwined with a haunting moral lesson. After a widowed father tragically loses his only son, he becomes consumed by grief and seeks retribution against the teenagers responsible. Turning to a mysterious witch, he initiates a dark plan for revenge.
Despite the witch's warning about the consequences of vengeance, the father's overwhelming pain drives him forward. His desperation blinds him to the dangers that lie ahead.
The witch conjures a menacing creature known as Pumpkinhead, possessing a terrifying and unique trait that brings devastation in its wake. This unleashed force, fueled by the witch’s power, soon leads to events that spiral far beyond anyone's control or understanding.
ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Rupert Sanders
Release Date:
Fri Jun 1 2012
Star Cast:
Kristen Stewart, Chris Hemsworth, Charlize Theron
Budget:
$170,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$396,592,829
Based on the classic German fairytale, Snow White and the Seven Dwarves which doesn’t really need an explanation.
This dark adaptation of the fairytale exhibited some profound cinematographic techniques. The evil queen sends out a huntsman to bring her stepdaughter back and then he turns to her side and then what follows is a deadly battle between good and evil.
Atwood’s take on Theron’s costumes is remarkable as well. While Kristen Stewart was thoroughly criticized for the casting, Charlize Theron was well-received by the critic community.
ComedyFantasyRomance
Director:
René Clair
Release Date:
Fri Oct 30 1942
Star Cast:
Fredric March, Veronica Lake, Robert Benchley
There is something that sweeps off in a broom and takes you on that makes this movie a beautiful must-watch.
One of the finest classics of Hollywood and Veronica Lake is just fabulous. When two witches a dad and daughter are burned at the stake by puritan Wooley.
The Wooley men are cursed for a lifetime of bad women in their lives. Well, then fate has definitely played crazy cupid because when the witches return for revenge the tables turn in favour for the best.
With the right amount of warmth, humour, and definitely witchcraft it’s a spectacular work of art in all its senses.
DramaHorror
Director:
Michael Reeves
Release Date:
Fri May 17 1968
Star Cast:
Vincent Price, Ian Ogilvy, Rupert Davies
Budget:
£83,000 (estimated)
Of all the movies of the time that dealt with similar plots, Witchfinder General is the darkest of them all.
The movie to date is referred to as one of the UK's finest horror movies. Set in 1645 an established witch hunter Matthew Hopkins and his sadistic assistant John Stearne travel from village to village torturing suspected witches.
When village priest John Lowes’s niece Sara is sexually exploited in order to save him and still leads to his death.
Her fiancee Roundhead Richard Marshall is in search of revenge. 35 years into its existence and still the finesse exhibited by this movie is still underrated.
The perfect villain, the pure evil incarnate, power at its peak, historical perfection and a moral to be cherished with all its bitterness.
Witchfinder General is a must-watch for anyone in the genre.
DramaFantasyRomance
Director:
Richard LaGravenese
Release Date:
Thu Feb 14 2013
Star Cast:
Alice Englert, Viola Davis, Emma Thompson
Budget:
$60,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$60,052,138
When the out-of-town normal kid falls in love with the outcast in the city we have a whole new story of love, family and witchcraft unfolding.
A locket that shares family history gives glimpses of the past. When two dark casters want to push Lena to the darker side complications arise.
In a struggle between light and darker sides, their relationship is under scrutiny so is the fate of the world.
The major criticism that the movie faced was for being a watered-down version of ‘Twilight’ and was mainly a by-product of the movie market demands.
While another group didn’t agree as well. And that’s how most average movie reviews work.
We don’t find the movie that bad and believe that it deserves an average ranking.
The cinematography, special effects, and sound have all in fact tried to do good work.
ActionMysterySci-Fi
Director:
Park Hoon-jung
Release Date:
Tue Mar 10 2020
Star Cast:
Kim Da-mi, Min-soo Jo, Choi Woo-sik
Budget:
$5,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$24,343,708
The Witch: Part 1 - Subversion (Manyeo) is a South Korean film about Ja-yoon, a young lady who has amnesia and finds she fled a secret government lab as a youngster.
As she navigates a seemingly regular existence, memories of her terrible past and weird talents emerge. Ja-yoon, pursued by the lab and plagued by her past, sets out on a mission to discover her actual identity and the secrets of her exceptional abilities.
The film's success stemmed from its unusual combination of genres, which included thriller, action, and supernatural aspects. Critics commended the film's exciting action sequences, Kim Da-mi's engaging performance, and its treatment of topics like as memory, identity, and power abuse.
While some found the narrative complex and difficult, the film's overall mystery and suspense kept audiences engaged.
Horror
Director:
Mario Bava
Release Date:
Wed Feb 15 1961
Star Cast:
Barbara Steele, John Richardson, Andrea Checchi
It is almost as if you’ve taken a bite off the horror platter that it lingers to a point you see it everywhere and that’s brilliant execution.
Director and cinematographer Mario Bava has put so much effort into the techniques of the movie that it moves forward effortlessly as a psychic, horror, thriller-like it is the only supposed to be genre.
Barbara Steele plays both the witch and the heroine. The 17th-century princess Asa and her boyfriend are put to death by her brother brutally and then they are resurrected back 200 years later.
To avenge the tragedy, they return, and then the real story begins. Though there are loopholes in the plotlines the movie is a must-watch if you’re in line for an evil female villain backup with the best cinematography techniques of the time.
HorrorThriller
Director:
Rob Zombie
Release Date:
Thu Apr 18 2013
Star Cast:
Sheri Moon Zombie, Meg Foster, Bruce Davison
Budget:
$1,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,544,989
In Salem, Massachusetts it all starts when Heidi a recovering drug addict who works in a DJ music store receives a strange wooden box containing an album by the band called the lords.
When the music is played however it seems to have a strange impact on the women around.
As we move deeper into the movie it is revealed that Heidi is in the lineage of Rev Hawthorne who had in the past killed a lot of witches and had been cursed that she will give birth to something that will destruct mankind.
If you are into the B movie genre this is definitely worth watching.
ComedyFamilyFantasy
Director:
Kenny Ortega
Release Date:
Fri Jul 16 1993
Star Cast:
Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy
Budget:
$28,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$50,789,441
The 1993 cult classic is all about the Sanderson sisters who are witches. In desperate need to be immortal, they conspire to murder a bunch of kids.
The loveable villains are treated as both antagonists and protagonists and therein lies your flimsy plot.
Bette Midler's ‘Minifred’ took such a deep swing on the audience that the hangover still lingers and is the main reason why it is still a Halloween treat.
Honestly, goofy entertainment is good enough for Halloween entertainment and definitely deserves a space.
ComedyFantasyHorror
Director:
Tim Burton
Release Date:
Fri May 11 2012
Star Cast:
Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Eva Green
Budget:
$150,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$245,527,149
Adding to the list of soap opera remakes we have Tim Burton’s, Dark Shadows. The film received mixed reviews from critics.
Lack of character development and a substantial subplot led was widely acknowledged as the reason for its poor performance in some markets.
There is so much to entertain in the movie but that’s just it. The film begins with a dark gloomy environment promising you so much but then it fails mainly because of the lack of a well-knitted plot.
When Barnabas Collins denies his love to a witch, he is cursed for a life where all his loved ones will die.
His eternal suffering continues when in a desperate measure to save his fiancée he is again cursed to be a vampire and is buried alive.
A construction group accidentally lets him out
AdventureComedyFamily
Director:
Robert Zemeckis
Release Date:
Thu Oct 22 2020
Star Cast:
Anne Hathaway, Octavia Spencer, Stanley Tucci
Box Office (Worldwide):
$29,303,571
Another adaptation of the Roald Dahl classic. Almost the same plot as the earlier movie but much lower in its standards.
We do have another one on the list, do check that one out. This one crept into our list only to let you know even in 2020 people ruin remakes and the saga never ends and yes, we have Anne Hathaway in the movie.
Except for Octavia Spencer, there is not much we could give a good rating to.
DramaHorrorThriller
Director:
Dario Argento
Release Date:
Wed Oct 31 2007
Star Cast:
Asia Argento, Cristian Solimeno, Adam James
Budget:
$3,500,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$3,120,229
"Mater Lachrymarum" name descends a tragic fate on Rome. The movie begins when the catholic church digs up the body of a 19th-century official and is surprised when they found an urn with artifacts related to Mater Lachrymarum, the last surviving member of an ancient dark witch trio.
The urn is shipped to a museum in Rome where it unleashes a series of events including mass suicides, murder, and violence.
Sarah Mandy who works in the museum discovers her white witch lineage. In a desperate journey to save herself and mankind's unusual steps, the story unveils.
Thirty years from the first in the trilogy ‘Not Suspiria’ was how the community widely reacted to the movie.
ComedyFantasyRomance
Director:
Dorian Walker
Release Date:
Fri Apr 28 1989
Star Cast:
Robyn Lively, Dan Gauthier, Joshua John Miller
Box Office (Worldwide):
$27,843
It is a hilariously Okay 80s movie. When Louise Miller has a bike accident, she seeks the help of someone who eventually helps her in finding her true identity.
Her past is unveiled as she realizes the witch reincarnation that she is and about the powerful amulet that she lost in her previous life.
With the help of Madame Serena, she uses her newfound powers to totally stupid teenage dreams and thereby causing a lot of problems.
In total, we could classify it as a teenage fantasy movie that is a curious combination defying classification for its take into multiple genres.
ComedyFantasyRomance
Director:
Richard Quine
Release Date:
Fri Dec 19 1958
Star Cast:
James Stewart, Kim Novak, Jack Lemmon
Budget:
$2,450,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$125
When the good witch falls in love with the mortal publisher there builds a storyline not so perfect but pleasant in all terms.
Jimmy Steward did do an average not bad performance. The movie is a light comedy enough to entertain you.
Oh, and also there is an underground society of witches and warlocks, the much-loved fantasy of an alternative world just became real.
And if you are watching witches what’s wrong with some muggle romance as well.
ComedyHorrorThriller
Director:
Jay Lender, Micah Wright
Release Date:
Fri Mar 25 2016
Star Cast:
Mia Marcon, Kris Lemche, David Alpay
Budget:
$1,750,000 (estimated)
Another one from the much-adored Found footage genre. Set in the remote village of Moldova, a documentary team is traumatized not only by the villagers but also by a witch seeking revenge.
As they embark on the documentary to shoot a homeowner who has been transforming a run-down into an artist's haven, they are in for a petrifying roller coaster ride.
While a lot happens in the movie, I can definitely guarantee you that out of the so many who came on the journey only a few or none leaves back home.
And the witch, oh she’s definitely a part of it although you might not really see it.
She’s definitely watching!
ComedyDramaFamily
Director:
Mike Schaerer
Release Date:
Thu Feb 1 2018
Star Cast:
Karoline Herfurth, Axel Prahl, Luis Vorbach
Box Office (Worldwide):
$15,295,482
Well, here is someone different from all our recent witches, a witch who wants to help the world.
A little witch of only 147 years wants to join the Bloxberg coven but the hostile senior witches find her breaking rules.
When she comes for the admission test, things turn ugly for everyone. A Swiss-German production that can definitely melt your heart.
In a competition between good and bad, you can definitely feel the beauty of the movie in your heart and definitely through your eyes.
AdventureDramaFantasy
Director:
Luc Picard
Release Date:
Fri Nov 28 2008
Star Cast:
Vincent-Guillaume Otis, Luc Picard, Alexis Martin
Budget:
CA$6,500,000 (estimated)
Young Babine was born with a tag as he had a witch for his mother.
And when Babine started growing in the remote village of Saint-Élie-de-Caxton all misfortunes that occurred were Babine’s fault.
When the village church catches fire, killing the old priest there is no one better to be accused of.
Will he survive the new priests tormenting and accusations? A small budget, quite a friendly movie not really in for so many intellectual questions can definitely be good from all the serious witchcraft.
For the ones who follow French, the experience would be quite remarkable as well.
ComedyDramaFantasy
Director:
Griffin Dunne
Release Date:
Fri Oct 16 1998
Star Cast:
Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Stockard Channing
Budget:
$75,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$46,733,235
We also have good movies in the end, so go on. When Maria Owens, a young witch with an unborn child is exiled to an unknown city.
She casts a spell on herself to no longer fall in love and soon she succumbs to death.
The curse however travels a long way to present-day Gillian and Sally Owens and they totally own it.
They cast their spells for love and the aches that follow are ridiculously funny and also dark.
Beyond love, there is so much about the sisters and their relationship that is very convincing and real in the movie.
Who knew mixing a witch movie and a romantic comedy can keep you engaged for so long?
Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock are devilishly awesome and their characterizations run perfectly through the plot.
The town's fear of witchcraft was not fully developed but still, the movie definitely runs on different standards.
Wickedly funny, entertaining, and a light-hearted magical experience.
ActionAdventureDrama
Director:
Cedric Nicolas-Troyan
Release Date:
Fri Apr 22 2016
Star Cast:
Chris Hemsworth, Jessica Chastain, Charlize Theron
Budget:
$115,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$164,989,338
It is important to note that, don’t connect this to the previous movies. It is just an extended story thread that can almost be considered as a new movie.
When evil Queen Ravenna’s sister Freya has a baby with Andrew, the baby is killed by Andrew.
Furious Freya kills Andrew and decides from then on, all babies in her kingdom taken to her palace and be trained for being huntsman.
Compensating her grief with power. The plot further develops into the role of the mirror and Ravenna in the massive destruction that erupted.
Eric and Sara among the huntsman whose love plays the role of the driving force in making everything right are brilliantly executed.
The color palette is also to be noted for its perfection. It keeps you engaged, it explores love and then there are the most adorable dwarves, more than enough reasons to love it.
ActionAdventureFantasy
Director:
Breck Eisner
Release Date:
Fri Oct 23 2015
Star Cast:
Vin Diesel, Rose Leslie, Elijah Wood
Budget:
$90,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$146,936,910
One mandatory aspect of all witch movies is that ‘it all began hundreds of years ago’ and so does this movie.
And so, eight hundred years ago the witch queen unleashed the black plague with the sole intention to wipe out humanity.
Kaulder leads the knights into her defeat and is cursed to eternal life and there begins our story.
Present-day Kaulder helps in finding rogue witches and saving the world. When the evil witch is resurrected her aim is to avenge her death and what follows is an epic battle between good and evil.
Though a bit of crack in the plot, great visuals, and good casting makes this movie deserve a place on the list.
Horror
Director:
Don Sharp
Star Cast:
Lon Chaney Jr., Jack Hedley, Jill Dixon
All Grace wanted to have was a normal happy family. While her pregnancy she has the disturbing vision of two witches being burned which haunts her.
After her delivery, however, the images no longer appear and she shifts to her mother in laws mansion.
The actual problems arise when she realizes that her husband and mother-in-law are actually tied to the occult.
When motherly instincts strike, she is up against her own family in order to save herself and her newborn.
The underground horror flick managed twelve sequels but didn’t really lead to a lot of good reviews.
As for the visuals the movie was widely criticized for its wide collection of borrowed shots from horror movies, mainly Rosemary’s Baby.
ActionFantasyHorror
Director:
Tommy Wirkola
Release Date:
Fri Jan 25 2013
Star Cast:
Jeremy Renner, Gemma Arterton, Peter Stormare
Budget:
$50,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$226,349,749
Now, who wouldn’t mind some action in the classic fairytales? The movie begins with everything as in the fairytale.
There are two children, the famous gingerbread house, and yeah, of course, the Witch with the fanbase for her house.
It is so real that Hansel ends up with diabetes, humor my world. After killing the witch years later Hansel and Gretel turn into famous witch hunters.
When eleven children go missing in a village, they set up on a mission to save the children and on the way help some falsely accused and fight against the great witch Muriel for her heinous intentions for blood moon.
It is nothing very challenging but a good enough not boring movie that could keep you hanging around.
There is so much to laugh at and not much to think and sometimes that is the only thing you need.
ActionAdventureFantasy
Director:
Sergei Bodrov
Release Date:
Fri Feb 6 2015
Star Cast:
Ben Barnes, Julianne Moore, Jeff Bridges
Budget:
$95,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$114,178,613
Spending almost all of his life saving the land from supernatural threats, witch hunter Gregory faces his nightmare again when Witch queen Malkin regains her power and escapes during the rise of the blood moon.
When he pursues to capture her, his assistant gets killed and Malkin escapes, rendering him powerless.
Gregory then seeks the seventh son of a seventh son Tom as his apprentice and trains him to kill the witch queen before she regains her full power.
On their journey, Tom meets Alice a witch who is captured and rescues her from their captors.
The movie went through a lot of struggles during filming and it is commendable that it didn’t turn out bad.
ActionAdventureFantasy
Director:
Dominic Sena
Release Date:
Fri Jan 7 2011
Star Cast:
Nicolas Cage, Ron Perlman, Claire Foy
Budget:
$40,000,000 (estimated)
Box Office (Worldwide):
$91,627,228
The film begins in the dark, gloomy thirteenth century when a priest accuses three women of witchcraft which eventually leads to his own death.
Later in the 14th century, German Teutonic Knights Sir Behmen von Bleibruck and Sir Felson are on a quest for war, but then leave the order when they witness a large civilian massacre.
They reach an unknown village and are bestowed with the task to take a witch to a monastery to make sure if she is the cause for the plague that is spreading in the nation.
There is a book, monastery, a demon, and exorcism. That is a platter filled with all items for a spooky night.
Gore, blood, and breathtaking battles which the camera has captured exquisitely as well. If you’re into the genre then it’s definitely watchable.
ActionAdventureThriller
Director:
Ray Eddy, Matthew Gunnoe
Release Date:
Sat Aug 30 2014
Star Cast:
Ray Eddy, James Winburn, William Smith
Budget:
$1,200,000 (estimated)
In Ancient Rome when a cursed coven of witches decides to destroy mankind they are trapped on an island by the forces of good.
A sceptical archaeologist in search of evidence for the existence of supernatural forces ends up at the foot of this mystery.
While devious individuals try to steal the result of his hard work there is much more to the curse that the island holds that can decide what could be left for mankind.
As challenging as it looks, it definitely has enough to keep you engaged in witchcraft.
Horror
Director:
Ray Austin
Release Date:
Thu Oct 11 1973
Star Cast:
Ann Michelle, Vicki Michelle, Keith Buckley
When sisters Christine and Betty run away in search of work as models, they are lucky enough to find an opportunity in the country. which is actually a trap let out by a lesbian witch and needless to say it’s quite a ride from there.
Christine is initiated into the coven and then a lot happens. The movie was also released under the title Lesbian twins.
Well, in considering a big list this movie definitely can have a seat at the rear end.
AnimationActionFantasy
Director:
Kazuhiro Takamura
Release Date:
Sat Mar 17 2012
Star Cast:
Cristina Valenzuela, Bryn Apprill, Christopher Bevins
Box Office (Worldwide):
$1,997,136
When a mysterious alien force called Neuroi attacks the alternative earth, there is no other option but to call upon the witches to save the day.
Yoshika Miyafuji, a girl from the Fusō Empire joins the titular Strike Witches to investigate the death of her father and help fight off the Neuroi.
Inspired by real-life pilots, the witches build striker units, a kind of weapon that enhances their magical abilities.
This spin-off of the anime series is not as popular as the series itself but it's a decent watch.
Documentary
Director:
Jason B. Boret
Release Date:
Tue Jul 14 2020
Now, this is more of a list that crept its way into a list but then I really can’t make such a long list.
While not giving away the cast and crew details, we are including a list of the most cherished fantasy of the time.
And two later added extended storylines "Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them" - November 18, 2016, & "Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald" - November 16, 2018.
JK Rowling is a master of wizardry that I seriously wonder if she really does take the train from platform 9¾.
The series is pure fantasy that actually put Harlem trials aside and caused a wicked obsession for magic in all the movie buffs and yea the bookaholics.
The Harry Potter series definitely got us thinking about the good and bad and definitely awesome spells.
ActionAdventureSci-Fi
Director:
Julius Onah
Release Date:
Fri Feb 14 2025
Star Cast:
Harrison Ford, Liv Tyler, Shira Haas
There was a lot in question when Disney and Pixar came together and that is definitely visible in the visual treat that is Brave.
The first Pixar movie to have a female lead. When Princess Merida is gifted a bow and arrow by her father King Fergus on her sixth birthday the adventure begins.
It is definitely a good movie with a lot of good intentions that failed in some places but definitely made a mark.
And a special mention to Merida’s hair that bounces, flies, and runs, seriously great work Pixar on the precision.
It is all about growing up, getting over your childish selfishness, and taking responsibility. Not Pixar’s super best but definitely watchable.