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It’s September, Coven and that means only one thing….(No, NOT seasonal depression, but that’s up next…)
It’s Spooky Season! The time of year where Witchy Types every where try to numb the agony of living in late stage capitalism and the shit show that is the politics of today by celebrating all thing Halloween. Its sacred time for many to just have some joy – I think Delia Deetz expresses our sentiments best:
As soon as the first leaf falls to the ground trust that I’m running for my big woolly knits and forcing my cottage core baking fantasy upon everyone. No one is safe, and the best way I’ve found to calm this beast down is by providing it with some snacks and to watch a good film. Now, we know how complicated it can be deciding upon what film to watch so I’ve sorted out that tricky part too by curating a series of film lists based around specific and very niche ‘vibes’.
[For a start, I am a Pisces Sun & Moon, therefore everything I ever do and will do is based on vibes. I do not make the rules…]
The Best Witch Films to Watch Over Spooky Season Part 1
Best Films to Watch Over Spooky Season Part 2
Today’s topic is Fantasy Gothic films and every single one is a favourite of mine so this list is very special to my icy heart. And yes, of course there is a part two in the works…like I could just make one list on this particular genre!
The Love Witch
Image Credit: Reddit
TLDR; A fabulously dressed Witch terrorizes men by giving them what they want.
A modern day ‘Good for her’ cult classic – The Love Witch,(2016) directed by Anna Biller, is a visually stunning and thematically rich homage to the Technicolor melodramas of the 1960s and ’70s. A genre-blending film that simultaneously pays tribute to and satirizes the romantic and witchcraft genres of the period. The film follows Elaine (played by Samantha Robinson), a beautiful and enchanting witch who is on a quest to find true love after her late husband broke her heart. Her journey takes her through a series of passionate and tumultuous relationships, all while practicing her magical arts (been there.)
It’s a darkly comedic, feminist, and visually sumptuous film that while it may not be for everyone due to its intentionally retro and campy style, those who appreciate its artistry and message will find it to be a bewitching and thought-provoking cinematic gem. It’s also one of those films that you get something from upon every watch. What you take away from it in your 20s is built upon when you watch in your 30s and so on. Basically, lets all just run off and set up a witchy queer commune, eh? Just say the word, Coven, and I’ll set up the go fund me.
If you don’t find yourself falling in love with the wardrobe then I don’t know what to say, as it’s fantastic! Also, let’s just give the eye make-up the appreciation it deserves. Yas, Mama worked that eye flick! With eye makeup that fabulous what’s a bit of homicide between friends, eh?
As I love to give a bit of everyday Emma lore in my posts – I actually WAS invited to the UK Film Premier of this film but couldn’t go as I had a last minute Client Pitch landed on me…. And people ask why I work for myself now…pft. I could’ve met the actors and everything, eurgh!
Legend (1985)
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch: Its actually on a few of the free digital channels such as freeview etc. YEY, a win for once, eh?
TLDR; Tim Curry is in it.
Tim. Curry. I mean, I could have left it there but for those who like more details ‘Legend’ (1985) directed by Ridley Scott, is a visually stunning and fantastical film that takes us on a journey into a mythical world filled with magic and darkness. The costumes are simply to die for, and I certainly used to run around in an old bridesmaids dress pretending to be Princess Lilly, but then, didn’t we all? A classic example of ’80s fantasy cinema, with amazing special effects and makeup. The film’s enchanting soundtrack by Tangerine Dream adds another layer of magic to the story (but actually super fans like myself will also know about the original soundtrack that came before that also slaps!). Legend remains a visually captivating and iconic piece of ’80s cinema, especially for fans of the fantasy genre.
Again, Tim Curry.
Image Credit: By bitplanet.biz – Fair use
Oh and a young, Tom Cruise literally walks around with no trousers on for all of it as he plays ‘Jack’ a woodland dweller. It’s also riddled with fairies, elves and other magical folk. Actually, thinking about it, Legend is basically the main cause of why people of a certain age’s have weird archetype crushes, a penchant for LARPING as well a need deep in our DNA to run around the Forrest in a flowing Princess sleeved dress. IT’S A BASIC HUMAN RIGHT I TELL THEE!
How could I not share this Gem of an image between Tim Curry and Grace Jones?…GRACE. JONES. Credit: IMDB
On the topic of weird crushes, this leads us nicely into the reason why your femme friends of various ages read so many darn spicybooks….
Labyrinth
Image Credit: GameRant.com
Watch: In the UK its on several of the free channel….Get. In.
TLDR; It has David Bowie in it…which again, I could leave there, but when have I ever turned down the option to talk at length about anything?
Labyrinth (1986) directed by Jim Henson, is a truly beloved fantasy film that combines the imaginative puppetry of Henson with the charismatic presence (IYKYK) of David Bowie as the Goblin King. The film follows Sarah (played by the beautiful Jennifer Connelly) as she navigates a labyrinth to rescue her baby brother from the Goblin King’s clutches. Labyrinth is a delightful blend of whimsy, adventure, and music, with Bowie’s iconic songs like “Magic Dance” adding to the film’s charm.
And yes, if he isn’t going to try to secure me by creating an epic ball room masquerade to impress me, I don’t want him.
The puppetry and practical effects are top-notch, creating a visually enchanting world that still captivates audiences even today. This film is a timeless classic and I couldn’t recommend it enough…*Manifesting a Labyrinth ballroom themed party* Also hands up everyone who massively disagreed with Sarah at the end…like gurl, listen to Aunty Emma, being David Bowie’s Goblin slave Queen is literally THE GOAL.
Actually whilst I am here, there is also a UK based Labyrinth convention. Someone please come with me (and whilst you’re here, why not pay, eh?) I BEG YOU.
On an Emma lore note, my 30th Birthday was David Bowie Themed…I can’t remember much of it which is a good sign but my hilarious and beautiful friend Denica came as Jareth and its still one of my favourite memories. Trotting around London pissed with each group member dressed as an era of Bowie. I was Ziggy Star Dust as I had literally had the outfit laying around. I am not even joking.
The Company of Wolves
Image Credit: vhsrevival.com
Watch on Amazon – and for a free version for the UK peeps, ITV
TLDR; Angela. Lansbury.
Eurgh, I LOVE HER. (And that has nothing to do with the fact she has a resemblance to me. It’s not her fault she’s pretty, let the Queen, Queen!)
Based on the screenplay by Angela Carter from her novella collection ‘The Bloody Chambers; The Company of Wolves (1984), directed by Neil Jordan, is a unique and visually striking take on the classic Little Red Riding Hood fairy tale. The film weaves a dark and dreamlike narrative filled with symbolism and metaphor, exploring themes of sexuality, fear, and transformation. Basically, if you asked a girl to make a film about puberty and the change from girlhood to womanhood, shed make this. Now, don’t be put off by that description as it’s also a fantastic horror film. The use of practical effects and makeup to depict the wolf transformations is astounding especially in these CGI times, and the film’s eerie atmosphere adds to its unsettling charm. Angela Lansbury’s performance as the grandmother is a standout. There are so many lil’ cameos as well. Terence Stamp as the Devil? SWOON.
The Company of Wolves is a thought-provoking and visually rich film that offers a fresh perspective on a familiar fairy tale. Like ‘The Love Witch’ it reveals so much more upon every rewatch. Again, I know I say this a lot but THE COSTUMES are sublime.
Simply one of my favourite films, EVER. I never ever get tired of it. It was the first film that I was able to actually sit through and watch when I was suffering my lil’ depressive episode aka ‘The Great Saddness’…eurgh if you’ve been there then you understand how monumental that is…and if you are going through that, I DOES get better, sweetie. I PROMISE.
Anyway, I’m working on a more in-depth piece on this film so watch this space!
The Last Unicorn
Image Credit: animationobsessive.substack.com and PLEASE also read the fabulous article on the making of the film via the above link.
Watch on: Amazon
TLDR; Christopher Lee. Unicorns. Harpies.
The Last Unicorn (1982) directed by Jules Bass and Arthur Rankin Jr., is a beautifully animated and emotionally resonant fantasy film based on Peter S. Beagle’s novel. The story follows a unicorn who embarks on a quest to find others of her kind, encountering a cast of memorable characters along the way. The soundtrack to this film is catchy and I still have the opening theme song playing in the background in my mind on repeat to this day. The voice cast is stacked including Christopher Lee, Mia Farrow and Alan Arkin. The film’s hand-drawn animation is simply sensational and highlights the artistry of traditional animation…which makes sense as the studio that made this went on to form THE studio Ghibli. Beware it does make you a wee bit weepy at the end.
There is truly a character for any demographic in this film, but I’m gonna end with THAT Molly Grue Scene. EURGH. Check out this article if you also find yourself crying and identifying with Molly Grue.
I cannot explain to you what this film means to many queer, trans, NeuroSpicy and anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or alone in the world. We stan.
Sending love to everyone who will never give up hope of seeing a real unicorn! ❤
Beetlejuice
Image Credit: IMDB
Watch: In the UK its on a few of the free channels and Amazon
Ah of course Tim Burton is on this Fantasy / Gothic list, and rest assured he has a larger post coming.
TLDR; One of Tim Burtons Best works in his usually kooky, gothic and creepy style.
Beetlejuice (1988) directed by Tim Burton, is a darkly comedic and visually inventive film that showcases Burton’s signature style. The story revolves around a recently deceased couple who seek the help of the eccentric and chaotic ghost, Beetlejuice, to rid their home of the living. Michael Keaton’s portrayal of Beetlejuice is a highlight, combining humour and grotesquery in a memorable way. Its such a funny film with really engaging characters and takes you to all sorts of kooky settings – on first watch you sincerely have no idea where the film is going which is unique in it’s self. The film’s quirky characters, whimsical afterlife setting, and Danny Elfman’s iconic score contribute to its enduring popularity. Beetlejuice is a cult classic that blends humour and the macabre in a way that only Tim Burton can.
Image Credit: IMDB
The costumes are engrained in the of fashion preferences as so many people watched this as a child and fell in LOVE with it style. Lydia’s Red wedding dress haunts my dreams, and what do you know, Barb’s housewifey in-door dress is actually worn by quite a few of Gen Z right now. Lets not even cover the impact of the Monochrome stripes etc….as we all know.
Hands up who wanted to be Lydia Deetz? Oh, all of us, cool. I’ve fully made my peace with the fact that I have grown into a Delia instead.
Addams Family
Watch on Amazon
TLDR; Mortica and Gomez. (Children, please don’t take anything less than this, Love Aunty Ems x)
The ONLY film that you need to reference when someone asks what are your couple goals, “The Addams Family,” directed by Barry Sonnenfeld, is a darkly delightful and macabre comedy that brings to life the beloved and eccentric Addams family from Charles Addams’ cartoons. The film revolves around the eerie and unconventional clan, led by Gomez (The Legend that is Raul Julia) and Morticia (HRH Anjelica Huston), as they navigate the challenges of modern life and grapple with the return of long lost brother, Fester ( The brilliant Christopher Lloyd).
The film’s production design is a visual feast, capturing the dark and Gothic atmosphere of the Addams’ mansion with intricate details and quirky inventions serving as inspiration for future goth generations to come. “The Addams Family” explores themes of acceptance and family bonds, emphasising that love comes in many unconventional and spooky forms. Its catchy theme song, distinctive characters, and iconic one-liners have made it a beloved classic that continues to captivate new generations.
And of course, if it isn’t Gomez’s level of adoration or Cousins ‘IT’s’ vibe of compassionate Rizz, DUMP HIM.
It’s also where I got introduced to ‘Great Aunt Calpurnia’ whom I have discussed before.
Phew! Now that is a list that is a delight for the eyes hopefully helped get some of y’all to agree on a film to watch tonight…if not, what more do you people want?! Seesh 😉
Hopefully, I’ve managed to inspire you to watch a film or maybe you have seen any of the above films? Let me know below in ze comment and/or on my social channels as I’m needy like that. But really, I am doing this because I love it and speaking to fellow Witchy Types so any thing that makes me feel less like I am screaming into the digital void is always appreciated ❤
Reach out if you have a recommendation that you’d like me to review or mention!
Want More Witchy Wonders?
Book a tarot reading or workshop with Me, Emma, just email emma@emfluence.co.uk and we can go from there (my actual Witchcraft Shop is launching over at Witchytype.com soon).
Follow the magic on social: @Bunnypudding (Tiktok) / @Witchytypebookclub (Tiktok) / @Bunnyscopes (Instagram) / Link Tree / Digital Coven Facebook
Until next time Coven, all the love Ems x X
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Reference links:
Main Header Image: “thisobscuredesireforbeauty: The Love Witch (Dir. Anna Biller,…“
https://screenrant.com/addams-family-films-questions-answers/#how-is-there-a-river-under-the-house
https://gamerant.com/jim-henson-labyrinth-facts-bowie/
https://watershade.net/films/Company%20of%20Wolves%2C%20The%20%281984%29.html
Digital Coven 
