40 Spellbinding Films About Witches To Add To Your Watchlist 

40 Spellbinding Films About Witches To Add To Your Watchlist 

I have always been intrigued by mystical arts and the allure of the unknown. From the classic tales of terror to the modern explorations of female empowerment, my imagination runs wild any time I watch or read stories about witches. This genre of stories captivates the audience with its enigmatic powers, connection to nature, and ability to bend reality. And what better way to delve into the world of witchcraft than through the captivating medium of cinema? 

Over the years, I’ve embarked on a cinematic journey, exploring the vast spectrum of witch-centric films that include others that are pure horror. Through this journey, I’ve discovered a treasure trove of spellbinding films that have cast their enchantment upon me, leaving me spellbound and eager to share them with fellow enthusiasts of the witching hour. 

From the wicked enchantresses of fairy tales to the mysterious practitioners of ancient folklore, witches are figures of both fear and fascination, wielding powers that can both harm and heal. In cinema, witches have been portrayed in various ways, from cackling villains to wise mentors. Allow me to tell you the 40 spellbinding films about witches that you must add to your watchlist.

1. Practical Magic (1998)

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Practical Magic is a 1998 American fantasy romantic comedy film based on the 1995 novel of the same name by Alice Hoffman. The film was directed by Griffin Dunne and stars Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as Sally and Gillian Owens, two sisters who are witches facing the challenges of love, family, and their magical heritage. It is a heartwarming story about the power of sisterhood and the importance of self-acceptance. It is also a visually stunning film, with beautiful cinematography and costumes.

2. The Witch (2015)

Set in 1630s New England, The Witch is not a film for the faint of heart! It is a horror film that follows a Puritan family that encounters forces of evil in the woods beyond their farm when they are banished from their community. Forced to forge a new life on the edge of a foreboding forest, they soon fall prey to a series of misfortunes that test their faith and push them to the brink of sanity.  

This Witches movie is a commentary on religious extremism, gender roles, and the dangers of paranoia. The film is known for its atmospheric tension, historical accuracy, and exploration of themes related to witchcraft and superstition. It will stay with you long after the credits roll, leaving you questioning what you saw and what it all means. 

3. Suspiria (2018) 

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Set in Berlin in 1977, Suspiria is a 2018 supernatural horror film directed by Luca Guadagnino. It follows a young American dancer, played by Dakota Johnson, who joins a prestigious dance academy. As she becomes involved in the academy’s activities, she uncovers dark secrets about the school and its instructors, revealing a disturbing and supernatural underbelly. 

It has been praised for its artistic ambition and others find it divisive. It’s appreciated by some for creating a sense of danger and unease taking the witchy genre to new heights. 

4. Nightbooks (2021) 

Nightbooks is an entertaining and thought-provoking witch film that was directed by David Yarovesky. It is based on the children’s book of the same name by J.A. White, telling the tale of Alex, a young boy obsessed with scary stories. He finds himself trapped in a magical apartment with a wicked witch who is both terrifying and oddly sympathetic. Their chemistry is undeniable, making their interactions both tense and strangely heartwarming.   

The movie combines elements of horror, fantasy, and coming-of-age stories. Nightbooks takes the cup for visual appeal, with a unique blend of animation and live-action that brings the magical world of the apartment to life. The film’s use of light and shadow creates a sense of suspense and mystery, while the detailed sets and costumes add to the film’s immersive atmosphere.  

5. Halloweentown (1998) 

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When it comes to heartwarming and spellbinding Halloween movies, Halloweentown holds a special place in many hearts. This Disney Channel Original Movie, directed by Duwayne Dunham, takes viewers on a magical journey to a hidden world where witches and other supernatural creatures live in harmony. 

It is the story of Marnie Piper, a curious 13-year-old girl who discovers she comes from a long line of witches. On Halloween night, she follows her eccentric grandmother Aggie through a magical portal to Halloweentown, a whimsical world filled with talking pumpkins, mischievous goblins, and friendly ghouls. The film celebrates the spirit of Halloween and the importance of embracing your individuality. 

6. The Love Witch (2016) 

The Love Witch” is a 2016 horror-comedy film that is the story of a beautiful young witch who moves to a small California town in search of love. However, her magical spells and potions designed to make men fall in love with her lead to unintended and deadly consequences. 

It explores the complexities of female desire and the societal expectations placed upon women, particularly in terms of love and sexuality. Elaine’s journey is both seductive and destructive, highlighting the dangers of relying solely on external validation and the importance of self-discovery. 

7. The Craft (1996) 

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The Craft” is a 1996 supernatural horror film directed by Andrew Fleming. The film follows four high school girls who form a coven and practice witchcraft. One girl is a newcomer with natural magical abilities, the other is a troubled and power-hungry girl, then there is one who seeks physical beauty, and lastly, one who faces racism from her peers. It blends elements of horror, fantasy, and teen drama, exploring themes of power, friendship, and the consequences of dabbling in the occult. 

8. Spellbinder (1988) 

Spellbinder is a 1988 supernatural thriller film that combines elements of horror, fantasy, and suspense. The story revolves around a young attorney named Jeff who rescues a mysterious woman named Miranda from an assault. In gratitude, Miranda invites Jeff to her mansion, where he becomes entangled in a world of dark magic and the supernatural. Turns out this lady is a witch, and the film explores themes of seduction, power, and the consequences of dabbling in witchcraft. 

9. The Covenant (2006) 

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The Covenant is a 2006 witch movie that offers a modern take on the classic witch story, focusing on a group of young men at a prestigious prep school who discover they descend from powerful witches and must confront a dark legacy. 

The film boasts of a young and talented cast, fast-paced action sequences, intriguing special effects, a stylish aesthetic, and an amazing soundtrack. 

10. Escape To Witch Mountain (1975) 

Escape to Witch Mountain is a fantasy science-fiction movie about two orphaned children with telekinetic powers, who escape from a sinister orphanage and find themselves in Los Angeles. They are being pursued by bad people who want to exploit their powers. 

A widower helps them to learn more about their origins and their connection to a distant planet called Anthea. They embark on a thrilling journey to Witch Mountain, a hidden location where they hope to find a way back to their home planet. 

11. Double, Double, Toil and Trouble (1993) 

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This film’s name is a reference to the famous witches’ chant from William Shakespeare’s play ‘Macbeth’. It features Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, who were popular twin child actresses at the time, playing young sisters named Kelly and Lynn Farmer.  

On Halloween, they discover that their Great Aunt Sophia is in danger of losing her home due to an ancient family curse. The girls embark on a magical adventure to undo the curse and save their aunt.  

12. The Witches (2020) 

The 2020 film adaptation of The Witches, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a visually stunning and darkly comedic take on Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book. The film stars Anne Hathaway as the Grand High Witch, a flamboyant and terrifying villain who leads a coven of witches determined to rid the world of children.  

Jahzir Bruno delivers a heartwarming performance as the young protagonist, a brave and resourceful boy who must face the witches and protect his fellow children. While it deviates from the original story in some aspects, it manages to retain the core themes of childhood wonder, the power of imagination, and the dangers of prejudice and fear. 

13. A Simple Wish (1997) 

A Simple Wish is a delightful 1997 American children’s fantasy-comedy film about the heartwarming story of Annabel, a young girl who wishes on a magical music box for her struggling actor father to land the lead role in a Broadway musical. However, due to a bumbling fairy godfather, the wish goes awry, leading Annabel and her brother to embark on a hilarious adventure to reverse the spell and save their father. 

14. The Wretched (2020) 

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The Wretched is a 2020 supernatural horror movie that is a blend of folk horror and supernatural elements. It follows a teenager named Ben, who is sent to live with his father for the summer in a small coastal town. Ben becomes suspicious of his neighbor’s mother, believing her to be possessed by a malevolent supernatural force.  

As he investigates further, he uncovers a dark and ancient evil that threatens the town and its residents. It explores themes of family, isolation, and the anxieties of adolescence. Ben’s struggles to connect with his father and his feelings of loneliness and frustration mirror the internal struggles of many teenagers. 

15. Gretel & Hansel (2020) 

Starring Sophia Lillis as Gretel and Samuel Leakey as Hansel, this movie is a dark fantasy horror film about these siblings in a medieval fantasy world, who venture into the dark woods in search of food and work. They come across the home of a mysterious woman named Holda who offers them shelter and food. However, as they stay with Holda, Gretel becomes increasingly suspicious of her intentions, and they discover the supernatural and sinister nature of their host. 

16. Into the Woods (2014) 

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Into the Woods is a captivating musical fantasy film that weaves together classic fairy tales like Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack and the Beanstalk, and Rapunzel, creating a complex and entertaining narrative about wishes, consequences, and the true meaning of happily ever after. 

A powerful, mysterious, and cunning witch promises to grant the wishes of a childless baker and his wife in exchange for specific items. This sets the stage for a journey filled with adventure, romance, and unexpected twists and turns. 

17. Dark Shadows (2012) 

A Johnny Depp movie, Dark Shadows is a dark fantasy film about Barnabas Collins, a vampire who is released from his 200-year imprisonment and returns to his ancestral home, Collinwood Manor. The main antagonist, Angelique, is a powerful witch who uses her magic to curse Barnabas and torment the Collins family.  

There are spells, curses, and potions involved, plus the gothic mansion has a dark history, with themes of good versus evil. 

18. Twitches (2005) 

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Twitches” is a 2005 Disney Channel Original Movie that stars Tia and Tamera Mowry as twin sisters Alex and Camryn, who were separated at birth and adopted into different families. On their 21st birthday, they discover each other and their magical abilities. 

As the twins reunite, they realize that they are powerful witches from a magical land and each possesses unique magical powers, and together, they can save the world from an evil force that threatens to destroy everything. This one has a sequel called Twitches too.

19. Teen Witch (1989) 

Teen Witch is an 80s teen fantasy-comedy movie that follows the story of a high school girl named Louise who discovers that she is a descendant of witches and possesses magical powers on her 16th birthday. 

Louise, initially a shy and overlooked student, transforms into a confident young woman when she learns about her newfound abilities. With the help of her magical powers and the guidance of her mentor, Madame Serena, she navigates the challenges of high school, romance, and social life. 

20. The Witches of Eastwick (1987) 

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The Witches of Eastwick is a dark fantasy comedy that follows the lives of three women as their desires and fantasies become reality. However, they soon realize that his powers come at a price, and their newfound freedom leads them into conflict with the conservative townspeople and ultimately forces them to confront their dark sides. The film explores various themes, including female empowerment, sexuality, witchcraft, good versus evil, and the consequences of indulging in one’s deepest desires. 

21. Hocus Pocus 1 and 2 (1993 & 2022) 

Hocus Pocus is an American Halloween comedy movie whose story begins in 1693 in the town of Salem, Massachusetts. Three witch sisters are executed for practicing dark magic. Three hundred years later, a teenage boy named Max accidentally resurrects the witches on Halloween night. The witches must suck the souls of children before sunrise for them to stay alive forever. The boy must then team up with his little sister and a new friend to stop the witches from sucking the souls of all the children in Salem.  

Hocus Pocus 2 takes place twenty-nine years after the events of the first one. This time, three high school students accidentally bring back the witches who must once again suck the souls of children before sunrise, but this time they face a new generation of heroes. 

The two Hocus Pocus movies are Halloween classics and are known for their blend of humor, magic, and family-friendly spookiness.

22. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022) 

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Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is a Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) film centered around the character Doctor Stephen Strange, played by Benedict Cumberbatch. The film is a sequel to the 2016 Doctor Strange movie and ties into the wider Marvel narrative. 

In this movie, Doctor Strange continues his research on the Time Stone, knowing very well of the dangers of tampering with time. In this movie, Wanda becomes the Scarlet Witch after being exposed to the Darkhold, a book of powerful dark magic. Here, witchcraft is portrayed as a powerful and dangerous force that can be used for good or evil. Will Doctor Strange defeat the powerful threat that seeks to destroy the multiverse? Watch and find out. 

23. Stardust (2007) 

Stardust is a 2007 romantic fantasy adventure film that is based on the novel of the same name by Neil Gaiman. The movie is about Tristan Thorne, a young man who promises to bring a fallen star to his beloved. However, when he crosses the wall into the magical realm, he finds himself embroiled in a dangerous adventure involving pirates, witches, and a fallen star. 

24. The Wizard of Oz (1939) 

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The Wizard of Oz is a 1930s award-winning classic that can be classified as a musical fantasy movie. It is one of the greatest films ever made thanks to its memorable songs and timeless storyline. The movie is about Dorothy, a young Kansas farm girl who along with her dog Toto, is swept away to the magical land of Oz in a tornado. In Oz, Dorothy befriends a Scarecrow, a Tin Woodman, and a Cowardly Lion who accompany her on a journey to meet the Wizard of Oz who they believe can help them.  

Along the way, they face many challenges, including the Wicked Witch of the West who wants Dorothy’s magic ruby slippers. This movie is a beloved classic that has been enjoyed by generations of families.  

25. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)  

Kiki’s Delivery Service is a Japanese animated fantasy film that was based on the 1985 novel of the same name by Eiko Kadono. The story follows Kiki a young girl who as part of her training to become a witch, embarks on a year of independent life as tradition dictates. Accompanied by her chatty black cat, Jiji, Kiki flies away from her family and settles in a bustling seaside town.  

With her flying abilities and Jiji’s sharp senses, Kiki starts her delivery service, navigating the challenges and joys of living on her own. She uses her flying ability to earn a living.  

26. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (2007)   

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Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is a fantasy film that is the fifth installment in the Harry Potter film series. The movie continues Harry Potter’s story during his fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Harry faces increasing skepticism and disbelief from the wizarding world about the return of the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. He is also dealing with the challenges of adolescence and the pressures of being the ‘Chosen One’. He forms a secret student group to teach his peers how to defend themselves against dark magic. Watch to see how it goes. 

27. Beastly (2011)

Beastly is a romantic fantasy drama that is a modern-day retelling of the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast set in New York City. It is the story of a handsome but arrogant and cruel teenager who enjoys humiliating his classmates. One day, he plays a particularly cruel prank on Kendra, a shy and unpopular girl who is a witch. As punishment, Kendra curses Kyle, transforming him into a grotesque beast, and the only way to break the curse is for someone to fall in love with him for who he is, not for his appearance. Will the curse be broken? Watch and find out. 

28. The Crucible (1996) 

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The Crucible is a 1990s historical drama movie that is a fictionalized account of the Salem witch trials of 1692. The story is set in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in the late 17th century and revolves around the Salem witch trials. The protagonist is a farmer who becomes caught up in the hysteria when a group of girls in the community begins accusing people of witchcraft.

The film explores themes of mass hysteria, the abuse of power, and the consequences of false accusations. As the accusations spread, innocent people are condemned, and the community is torn apart by fear and suspicion.  

29. The Little Mermaid (1989) 

The Little Mermaid is a 1980s Walt Disney Pictures animated musical fantasy film that tells the story of Ariel, a mermaid princess who dreams of becoming human and falls in love with a human prince named Eric. She makes a deal with the sea witch Ursula to become human for three days, but soon finds that things are not as perfect as she imagined. 

30. Bewitched (2005) 

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Bewitched is a 2005 American romantic comedy fantasy film that features Nicole Kidman and Will Ferrell. It is the story of a washed-up actor who is attempting to revive his career by casting an unknown actress to act as a witch in the lead role. He unknowingly casts an actual witch who is trying to live a normal, mortal life and suppress her magical abilities. Will her magical abilities unintentionally affect the filming of the movie? Watch and find out. 

31. The Last Witch Hunter (2015)  

The Last Witch Hunter is a 2015 action fantasy film starring Vin Diesel as Kaulder, a centuries-old immortal warrior, and Elijah Wood as a man of God. The worrier has been tasked with hunting and killing witches since they murdered his wife and daughter and works for the Axe and Cross, a secret organization dedicated to keeping the truce between humans and witches.  

In the present day, Kaulder is investigating a series of mysterious deaths in New York City. He soon discovers that a powerful coven of witches is planning to break the truce and unleash a plague upon the world. He must stop the witches and protect humanity. 

32. Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)  

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Howl’s Moving Castle is a 2004 Japanese animated fantasy film about a young woman working in a hat shop. She is cursed by the Witch of the Waste and transformed into an old woman. Determined to break the curse, the lady leaves her home and encounters a walking castle inhabited by the powerful but mysterious wizard Howl. She makes a deal with a fire demon trapped within the castle, to help her break the curse in exchange for helping him break his binding contract with Howl. 

33. Wild Witch (2018) 

Wild Witch is a 2018 Danish fantasy movie about a 12-year-old girl who is scratched by a mysterious cat, unleashing latent magical powers within her. She soon learns that she is descended from a long line of wild witches, women who possess extraordinary abilities and live in harmony with nature. She leaves her comfortable life in the city to seek out her estranged aunt who is a powerful wild witch who lives deep in the forest.  

She begins to hone her magical abilities and learns about the ancient traditions of wild witches. She must fight the evil that threatens the balance between humans and nature. Watch to see how it goes.

34. Bell, Book, and Candle (1958) 

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Bell, Book, and Candle is a 1950s supernatural romantic comedy movie about a beautiful and stylish witch living in Greenwich Village, New York City. She becomes infatuated with her neighbor, who is an editor for a publishing company and casts a spell on him to win his love. The magic makes him fall in love with her, and they begin a whirlwind romance.  

However, as their relationship deepens, she must decide whether to continue using her magic to control him or to let him go and find love on his terms. 

35. Maleficent (2014) 

Maleficent is a dark fantasy film that has Angelina Jolie as the main character. The movie is the Sleeping Beauty story told from the perspective of the villain. Maleficent is a young fairy with powerful magic who lives in a peaceful kingdom known as the Moors. When a human king, Stefan, invades the Moors and threatens its inhabitants, Maleficent rises to protect her home. However, Stefan betrays her trust and steals her wings in a fit of greed and ambition. 

Consumed by anger and revenge, Maleficent curses Stefan’s daughter, Aurora, to prick her finger on a spinning wheel and fall into a deep sleep on her sixteenth birthday. However, as Aurora grows up, Maleficent forms a bond with the young princess and begins to question her curse. 

36. Beautiful Creatures (2013) 

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Beautiful Creatures is a romantic fantasy drama movie about a teenager living in the small town of Gatlin, South Carolina. He feels trapped by his predictable life and dreams of escaping to a bigger world. His life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Lena, a mysterious and beautiful girl who has just moved to town. 

Lena is surrounded by secrets and rumors, and Ethan soon learns that she is a Caster, a descendant of a powerful family with magical abilities. As they grow closer, Ethan and Lena discover that they are bound by a powerful prophecy and must face a dark force that threatens their love and their lives. 

37. Earwig and the Witch (2020) 

Earwig and the Witch is a Japanese animated fantasy film about a spirited young orphan who lives in a Children’s home but longs for a family and dreams of being adopted. One day, a strange woman named Bella arrives at the orphanage and chooses to adopt Earwig. Bella is a witch who lives in a magical house filled with talking animals and strange creatures and treats the child harshly and expects her to work tirelessly. Watch to see what happens next. 

38. Nanny McPhee (2005) 

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Nanny McPhee is a 2005 British-American fantasy comedy film about a widower with seven mischievous children who is at his wit’s end. He hires Nanny McPhee a mysterious and seemingly strict woman who arrives with a magical walking stick and a stern demeanor. 

The nanny uses unique methods of discipline that are unorthodox and sometimes even painful. She bonds with the children over time and helps them overcome their fears, insecurities, and grief over their mother’s death.  

39. Elvira: Mistress of the Dark (1988)   

Elvira: Mistress of the Dark is a comedy horror film about a lady who quits her job as the host of a late-night horror movie show and sets out to claim her inheritance in the small conservative town of Falwell, Massachusetts. She discovers that her great-aunt, who was a great witch, has left her a mansion, a dog, and a recipe book.  

The town, however, is not as welcoming as she had hoped, and she faces prejudice and resistance from the conservative residents. 

40. The Worst Witch (1986) 

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The Worst Witch is a British musical fantasy movie about a clumsy and accident-prone young girl who longs to be a witch. She attends an Academy for Witches, but despite her best efforts, she constantly finds herself in trouble due to her magical mishaps. She is often ridiculed by her classmates and is always up for punishment from the strict school head. She becomes friends with another student who is just as unlikely to succeed in witchcraft. Together, they face the challenges of school life and try to prove their magical abilities. 

Those are the 40 spellbinding films about witches that you should add to your watchlist. Some of these movies explore the dark side of witchcraft, while others have celebrated its power and beauty. With themes ranging from the power of female friendship to the dangers of superstition, these movies are sure to entertain, frighten, and inspire you.