Where to start
The Witches
2 versions · originally a film, 1990
Themes: Good vs Evil, Child in Peril, Transformation, Hidden Identity, Secrecy.
Roald Dahl’s dark, whimsical premise of children battling grotesque, disguised witches remains a masterclass in unsettling, imaginative dark fantasy storytelling.
✦ Most fans start here
The Witches (1990)
The original movie
✦ Start hereThe Witches
Nicolas Roeg · Film · 1990
The Witches (1990) captures a visceral, practical-effects-driven horror aesthetic that leans into the unsettling nature of the source material. It is essential viewing for those who prefer dark, atmospheric fantasy.
2020 film
Roald Dahl's The Witches
Film · 2020
Roald Dahl's The Witches (2020) reimagines the classic tale with a distinct shift in setting to 1960s Alabama, offering a contemporary visual approach for audiences interested in modern stylistic interpretations of Dahl.
Common questions
Is The Witches (1990) the same story as the 2020 version?
Both The Witches (1990) and Roald Dahl's The Witches (2020) are film adaptations based on the same source material. While they share the same core narrative premise, they are distinct productions featuring different directors, casts, and creative interpretations of the original story.
Should I watch The Witches (1990) before Roald Dahl's The Witches (2020)?
You do not need to watch them in any specific order because both films are independent adaptations. Watching The Witches (1990) first allows you to see the earlier cinematic take, while Roald Dahl's The Witches (2020) offers a modern perspective on the same written work.
How do the 1990 and 2020 versions of The Witches compare?
The Witches (1990) and Roald Dahl's The Witches (2020) differ in their production styles and visual approaches. The 1990 film is known for its practical effects and specific tone, whereas the 2020 film utilizes modern digital techniques to re-envision the classic tale for a contemporary audience.
Are there any sequels to The Witches (1990)?
There are no official cinematic sequels to The Witches (1990). The story concludes within the film, and the only other direct adaptation of the source material is the 2020 film titled Roald Dahl's The Witches, which is a separate retelling rather than a continuation of the 1990 version.