The Witches (1990) ***
There are a lot of things to appreciate about Nicolas Roeg's film version of The Witches (1990). Chiefly, Anjelica Huston playing the Grand High Witch—that's perfect casting right there. Also, the wonderful f/x by Jim Henson's (who executive produced) production company.
Additionally, for those of us who gravitate toward it, there is a dark edge here that was more common in children's movies of the 80s (The Witches was completed in 1989, but the release was delayed for more than a year) that is just not present any more. I only really tend to like children's films when they are dark (give me stories in the vein of Grimm's Fairy Tales (1812) all day long).
But unfortunately, Roeg decided to change the ending of Road Dahl's 1983 novel for his adaptation, which incensed Dahl to no end. Apparently, Roeg did film an ending that remained loyal to the book but chose to use the happier version, which I'm not crazy about. I also feel like there's something missing from the film as a whole—it's hard to put into words, but it's just "lacking".
The Witches has its good points though. It's fun and it holds up pretty well on a rewatch as an adult. Sadly both Henson and Dahl died the year that this film was released—two legendary talents lost to this world.
You can find my Nicolas Roeg Feature Films Ranked list here.
Additionally, for those of us who gravitate toward it, there is a dark edge here that was more common in children's movies of the 80s (The Witches was completed in 1989, but the release was delayed for more than a year) that is just not present any more. I only really tend to like children's films when they are dark (give me stories in the vein of Grimm's Fairy Tales (1812) all day long).
But unfortunately, Roeg decided to change the ending of Road Dahl's 1983 novel for his adaptation, which incensed Dahl to no end. Apparently, Roeg did film an ending that remained loyal to the book but chose to use the happier version, which I'm not crazy about. I also feel like there's something missing from the film as a whole—it's hard to put into words, but it's just "lacking".
The Witches has its good points though. It's fun and it holds up pretty well on a rewatch as an adult. Sadly both Henson and Dahl died the year that this film was released—two legendary talents lost to this world.
You can find my Nicolas Roeg Feature Films Ranked list here.
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