Roald Dahl's The Witches (2020)

Review Team

3.5/5

Roald Dahl's The Witches, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is an ambitious retelling of a beloved classic. The film captures the essence of Dahl’s dark humour while introducing a contemporary flair. Anne Hathaway's portrayal of the Grand High Witch is both captivating and chilling, bringing a new level ... Show more >> Roald Dahl's The Witches, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is an ambitious retelling of a beloved classic. The film captures the essence of Dahl’s dark humour while introducing a contemporary flair. Anne Hathaway's portrayal of the Grand High Witch is both captivating and chilling, bringing a new level of intensity to the character. The plot follows a young boy and his grandmother as they confront witches in a seaside resort, blending whimsy with genuine suspense. While the film’s CGI effects are impressive, they sometimes overshadow the heartfelt moments between the characters. The pacing can feel uneven, but the overall experience is enhanced by a strong score and vibrant visuals. For fans of Dahl's work, this adaptation offers a fresh perspective, though it may not resonate as strongly with purists. Show less

Editor Team

2/5

I had high hopes for Roald Dahl's The Witches, but sadly, it didn't quite deliver. While the visuals are striking and Anne Hathaway puts in a commendable performance, the film feels disjointed and lacks the charm of the original story. The balance between humour and horror is off-kilter, leaving mom ... Show more >> I had high hopes for Roald Dahl's The Witches, but sadly, it didn't quite deliver. While the visuals are striking and Anne Hathaway puts in a commendable performance, the film feels disjointed and lacks the charm of the original story. The balance between humour and horror is off-kilter, leaving moments that should be whimsical feeling forced. The plot, which sees a boy and his grandmother battling witches, is engaging but the execution feels rushed at times. Zemeckis's direction shines in some scenes, yet the film struggles with its identity. It’s a mixed bag that might entertain younger audiences but leaves older fans wanting more substance. Overall, while there are enjoyable moments, it doesn’t capture the magic of Dahl’s storytelling. Show less