by Tabatha Golat –
I think it’s safe to say – being named after a witch – I come by my love of the spooky season honestly, which is why this month’s recommended watch list is all about the best spooky shows to cozy up with and get into the Halloween spirit. Whether you’re looking for a bit of magic or nostalgia, these films are sure to deliver.
First on my list is the 1998 classic romantic fantasy Practical Magic. Inspired by Alice Hoffman’s novel, the film stars Nicole Kidman (Gillian) and Sandra Bullock (Sally) as the Owens sisters, descendants of a long line of witches cursed to never know true love. Raised by their eccentric aunts in Massachusetts, the sisters are shunned by the locals, but when Gillian falls for the wrong man, they must work together to banish his undead spirit before it destroys them. Practical Magic is a beautiful tribute to sisterhood and the bonds of love, and a must-watch for Halloween. The film is rated PG-13 and is available on Amazon Prime. If you’re a fan, you’ll be thrilled to know a sequel is in development, though the release date is still yet to be determined.
For a classic hit to get into the Halloween mood, or just to enjoy a bit of cinematic nostalgia, Bell, Book and Candle is a must-see. This 1958 romantic comedy stars James Stewart, Kim Novak and Jack Lemmon. Novak plays Gillian Holroyd, a “modern-day” witch who owns a rare art store. When she takes an interest in her new neighbour Shepard (Stewart), she casts a love spell on him, despite his engagement to her old college rival. As Gillian develops real feelings for Shepard, she faces a dilemma: she’ll lose her powers if she falls in love. With stunning visuals and Academy nominations for Costume Design and Art Direction, this charming film can be viewed on Apple TV.
If you grew up in the 90s, The Craft is likely already on your radar. This 1996 cult classic stars Robin Tunney as Sarah, a powerful witch. Sarah, the new girl in town, befriends a trio of outcast girls who dabble in the occult, but when she joins their coven, their powers spiral out of control, leading to chaos. Sarah is forced to bind the coven’s powers to prevent further destruction. The perfect mix of high school drama and supernatural thrills, The Craft is streaming on Netflix.
Be sure to check out the following fall watches to get in the Halloween spirit:
Ginger Snaps, Prime
Sleepy Hollow, Apple TV
Beetlejuice, Apple TV
Death Becomes Her, Prime
