moonspinner55 Review of The Witches

The Witches (1990)

Better-than-average fantasy, but to whom is it intended to appeal?

[6/10 · 7 September 2005]

Young boy and his wily grandmother (a surprisingly comfortable and energetic Mai Zetterling) vacation at a seaside resort and soon discover it is beset by child-hating witches. The almost-improbable screen-teaming of director Nicolas Roeg, writer Roald Dahl and effects wizard/puppeteer Jim Henson results in a predictably garish, uneven, occasionally off-putting venture which may actually intrigue grown-ups more so than kids. Some intense and amusing sequences stand out, as does Anjelica Huston's performance as the leader of the witches. Remarkable effects, a very interesting and colorful attempt, but hurt overall by too many chefs and a flabby final reel. **1/2 from ****