There aren't that many films really that appeal to both kids and adults but The Witches is definitely one of them. Based on Roald Dahl's 1983 book (but with a few changes) it follows the story of an orphaned boy, Luke (Jasen Fisher) and his grandmother (Mai Zetterling in one of her final film roles) as they discover a coven of witches whilst on holiday in an English hotel. Nicholas Roeg brings both humour and horror to the film, at times filmed like a classic horror film but still accessible to children.
Adding to this mix is the very good support cast (Rowan Atkinson, Bill Paterson, Brenda Blethyn, Jane Horracks) although all are overshadowed by Anjelica Huston's Grand High Witch, at times comic but still a fantastic film villain. Jim Henson provides the effects which despite being a lot of smoke, mirrors and puppets work extremely well.
Back in 1990 this film wasn't greatly received by audiences but its a gem, definitely one for the DVD collection.
Adding to this mix is the very good support cast (Rowan Atkinson, Bill Paterson, Brenda Blethyn, Jane Horracks) although all are overshadowed by Anjelica Huston's Grand High Witch, at times comic but still a fantastic film villain. Jim Henson provides the effects which despite being a lot of smoke, mirrors and puppets work extremely well.
Back in 1990 this film wasn't greatly received by audiences but its a gem, definitely one for the DVD collection.