Best Horror Movies Featuring Witches: From Classics to Modern Hits

Witches have cast their spell over horror movies for decades, conjuring up tales of dark magic, haunting rituals, and supernatural forces that thrill audiences. Whether you’re a fan of creepy coven stories or chilling witchcraft-based terrors, these movies have become a beloved subgenre within horror. From classic films like Hocus Pocus to contemporary hits like The Witch, witches have a long history of raising goosebumps and keeping us on the edge of our seats. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into some of the best horror movies featuring witches, exploring their eerie charm and what makes them unforgettable. So, get ready to brew your own potion of spooky fun and discover films that will have you spellbound from start to finish. Here are 10 witchy films to inspire your next horror movie marathon!

1. The Witch (2015)

Description: The Witch is a haunting tale set in 1630s New England, focusing on a Puritan family torn apart by suspicions of witchcraft. With eerie atmosphere, disturbing imagery, and a slow-burn plot, this modern classic is a chilling exploration of religious paranoia and supernatural terror. The film’s unsettling pace and quiet moments of tension create an atmosphere that will keep you on edge. The powerful performance by Anya Taylor-Joy as Thomasin, the young girl accused of witchcraft, is truly haunting. The minimalist approach to horror makes the supernatural elements all the more terrifying.

Review: The Witch is a slow-burn masterpiece that keeps you hooked with its eerie atmosphere and psychological tension. The film’s deliberate pacing may not be for everyone, but for fans of subtle horror, it's an absolute must-watch. It’s a film that lingers long after it ends, leaving you questioning the thin line between religion and superstition, innocence and guilt. It’s perfect for a quiet, unsettling night in.

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2. Hocus Pocus (1993)

Description: No Halloween movie marathon is complete without Hocus Pocus, the beloved comedy-horror that’s perfect for a fun night in. Featuring the iconic Sanderson Sisters, three witchy women who rise from the dead to wreak havoc on modern-day Salem, this film is both spooky and hilarious. It’s a nostalgic favorite that captures the essence of magical mischief. The cast, led by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, delivers a mix of slapstick comedy and dark magic. The movie’s light-hearted tone makes it accessible for all ages and perfect for family viewing.

Review: Hocus Pocus is the epitome of nostalgic witchy fun. It’s goofy, charming, and packed with magical mischief. While it’s definitely more comedy than horror, it’s an absolute must-watch for anyone who loves witches in pop culture. Whether it’s your first time seeing it or you’re revisiting this Halloween classic, it never fails to entertain. If you're in the mood for something lighter but still magical, this is the movie for you!

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3. The Craft (1996)

Description: The Craft is a quintessential 90s teen horror film that combines witchcraft, high school drama, and supernatural revenge. Follow a group of outcast girls who discover their powers only to be consumed by them. The film blends themes of empowerment, danger, and friendship with witchcraft at its core, making it an empowering yet cautionary tale about what happens when magic goes too far. The performances, particularly from Fairuza Balk as the dark and dangerous Nancy, elevate the movie to cult classic status.

Review: The Craft is the ultimate 90s witchcraft flick, blending high school angst with supernatural thrills. The film's dark themes of revenge, power, and friendship resonate with many, especially for those who grew up in the era of grunge and goth. The iconic line, “We are the weirdos, mister,” is etched in witchy pop culture history. If you’re looking for a movie that mixes horror with an empowering female narrative, The Craft is your spellbound ticket.

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4. Suspiria (1977)

Description: Dario Argento’s Suspiria is a visually stunning masterpiece of horror that follows a young ballet student as she uncovers a sinister school run by witches. With its atmospheric soundtrack by Goblin, lavish visuals, and grotesque set designs, this cult classic is a must-watch for any horror fan. The film’s nightmarish sequences, dreamlike logic, and eerie tone make it an unforgettable viewing experience. It’s a film where the visuals and sound take center stage, creating an immersive, terrifying atmosphere.

Review: Suspiria is a haunting, otherworldly experience. Its blend of horror and art-house sensibilities makes it an essential for cinephiles and horror fans alike. The film’s bold use of color and sound creates an immersive experience that is both beautiful and terrifying. The movie is slow and methodical, but the payoff is worth it for those who appreciate surreal horror. It’s a perfect pick if you want something truly unique and atmospheric.

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5. Witchboard (1986)

Description: If you're in the mood for 80s horror, Witchboard offers a blend of supernatural terror and Ouija board séances gone wrong. The film follows a group of friends who summon an evil spirit through a Ouija board, leading to a series of terrifying events. It’s a fun, if not overly sophisticated, ride into the world of haunted objects and witchcraft. The campy elements add to its charm, making it a fun, nostalgic watch for fans of 80s horror.

Review: Witchboard is a campy, fun supernatural thriller that leans heavily into its 80s roots. It’s not a high-concept film by any means, but it offers plenty of cheesy moments and nostalgic vibes for those who love old-school horror. It’s perfect for a casual horror movie night when you’re craving something with a bit of fun and a lot of occult thrills.

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6. The Love Witch (2016)

Description: This retro-styled horror-comedy features a modern witch on a quest for love — but her obsession quickly turns deadly. With its bright 60s aesthetic and over-the-top performances, The Love Witch offers a fun and campy take on witchcraft. It’s a perfect blend of kitsch, color, and terror, making it a playful addition to any witch movie list. The film’s vibrant visuals and quirky tone make it an entertaining watch for those who enjoy witchcraft with a side of humor.

Review: The Love Witch is a playful, stylized ride through the world of love and witchcraft. The movie’s campy tone and retro aesthetic make it a refreshing addition to the genre. It’s both funny and frightening, and its over-the-top performances will have you hooked from start to finish. If you enjoy a mix of horror and comedy with a distinct visual flair, The Love Witch is a perfect choice.

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7. The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)

Description: A more atmospheric, slow-burn horror movie, The Autopsy of Jane Doe centers on a father-son coroner team who uncover dark, mystical secrets while examining the body of an unknown woman. As the investigation deepens, they realize the woman may have been the victim of a witch’s curse. This tense, eerie thriller mixes supernatural mystery with grounded horror. The film’s restrained performances and taut narrative keep you invested in its eerie plot.

Review: The Autopsy of Jane Doe is a slow-burn mystery that builds tension to a truly terrifying conclusion. It’s more cerebral than most witch horror films, relying on atmosphere and suspense rather than jump scares. The film’s clever mix of mystery and supernatural horror makes it a standout in the genre. If you enjoy films that make you think while creeping you out, this is the movie for you.

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8. The Lords of Salem (2012)

Description: Rob Zombie’s The Lords of Salem is a surreal, unsettling horror film that delves into the world of witches and curses in Salem, Massachusetts. A DJ receives mysterious records that awaken her own witchy abilities. The film is a dark, psychedelic dive into witchcraft, with plenty of disturbing imagery and an unsettling soundtrack. It's not for everyone, but its unique style and disturbing atmosphere make it a fascinating watch for those into more experimental horror.

Review: The Lords of Salem is a mind-bending trip into witchcraft and the occult, with a heavy dose of unsettling visuals and psychological horror. It’s not a straightforward film, but its eerie atmosphere and disturbing moments make it a must-see for fans of surreal horror. If you’re looking for a deep, dark dive into witchcraft with a lot of style, this film delivers.

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9. The Blair Witch Project (1999)

Description: A staple in the found footage genre, The Blair Witch Project follows three filmmakers as they investigate the legend of the Blair Witch in a Maryland forest. As the story unravels, the witches’ curse takes hold in chilling ways. While not directly about witches in the traditional sense, this film’s eerie atmosphere and slow descent into madness make it a great pick for fans of witchcraft horror. The power of suggestion and fear of the unknown keep you on edge throughout the film.

Review: The Blair Witch Project is a film that taps into the primal fear of the unknown. The found footage format makes the experience feel raw and authentic, and the isolation of the forest adds to the tension. It’s not a traditional witch movie, but it’s definitely one that will haunt you. If you enjoy slow-burn horror with a sense of mystery and dread, this is a classic that you shouldn’t miss.

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10. Roanoke (2016)

Description: While this isn’t a movie, we couldn’t not include it. A season of American Horror Story, Roanoke explores the cursed history of the Roanoke colony, including witchcraft and witch trials. The season is a captivating exploration of myths, legends, and witchy folklore that will keep you on edge. This season's unique format and shocking twists make it a wild ride from start to finish. Fans of AHS will appreciate its blend of history, terror, and supernatural horror.

Review: Roanoke is one of the most inventive seasons of American Horror Story, blending historical myth with modern horror. The season’s supernatural elements and twists keep you guessing, and its eerie atmosphere makes it perfect for a witchcraft-themed binge. If you enjoy anthology horror with a dash of folklore, this season is definitely one to watch.

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These 10 witchy horror films (well, 9 and 1 tv show) cover a wide range of styles, from eerie and atmospheric to campy and fun, making them perfect for any witchcraft movie marathon. Whether you're in the mood for something classic like Hocus Pocus or a more atmospheric flick like The Witch, these films are sure to conjure up some thrills. Which of these ideas will you try this Imbolc? Let me know in the comments, or share your creations on social media with #ImbolcDIY!