Cast
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Jasen Fisher
as Luke Eveshim
Mai Zetterling
as Helga Eveshim
Anjelica Huston
as Miss Eva Ernst
Charlie Potter
as Bruno Jenkins
Rowan Atkinson
as Mr Stringer
Bill Paterson
as Mr Jenkins
Brenda Blethyn
as Mrs Jenkins
Jane Horrocks
as Miss Irvine
Nora Connolly
as Beatrice
Rose English
as Dora
Jenny Runacre
as Elsie
Angelique Rockas
as Henrietta
Rosamund Greenwood
as Janice
Sukie Smith
as Marlene
Emma Relph
as Millie
Crew
Director
- Nicolas Roeg
Producer
- Mark Shivas
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Young "Luke" (an enthusiastic Jasen Fisher) lives with his grandmother "Helga" (May Zetterling) after being mysteriously orphaned. His grandmother has made him worldly wise to the ways of witches, and so he is alert to the antics of "Eva" (Angelica Huston) when he and his ever-hungry new friend "Bruno" (Charlie Potter) meet in a seaside hotel. Overhearing her evil grand design as she addresses a convention of hags and crones, both he and his friend are turned into white mice - but can he get back to his grandmother and warn her before all the children in the world are gone? It's quite a quickly paced and fun adventure this, with plenty of escapades as the boys/mice have to steal the potion and thwart the witches. Jim Henson has provided some suitably grizzly effects and the supporting cast - especially the rather supercilious Bill Paterson as the father of "Bruno" help keep the film flow effortlessly for ninety minutes before an ending that might put you off pea soup for quite a long a while. It has dated a little, but is still an enjoyable piece of family cinema that I did quite enjoy.
Oct 21, 2022
Thematic Analysis
This Fantasy/Family/Horror film explores themes of fear and survival, delving into the psychological aspects of human nature when confronted with the unknown. The Witches presents a unique perspective on the horror genre by focusing on the psychological terror rather than relying on typical jump scares.
Director Nicolas Roeg brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1990, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Witches took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $11.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1990, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Witches shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Candyman, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Witches subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Dead Ringers and Babe explore similar territory, The Witches stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: May 25, 1990
- Runtime: 1h 31m
- Budget: $11,000,000
- Revenue: $15,400,000
