Bell, Book and Candle

Gillian Holroyd runs a rare ethnological art store in Greenwich Village and secretly practices witchcraft. She becomes bored with her monotonous life and shows an interest in her new neighbor, Shep Henderson, a publisher. Her life starts to shift as she observes and interacts with those around her, including her witch relatives.

Shep Henderson comes home on Christmas Eve to find Gillian's aunt, Queenie, inside his apartment. Offended, Queenie casts a hex on Shep’s telephone, which sets an ominous tone for the evening. This event introduces Queenie’s mischievous nature and her influence on the story,

Gillian and Shep are invited to the Zodiac Club, where they meet Queenie and Nicky. Queenie reports that Shep is engaged, but encourages Gillian to use magic to pursue him. The club serves as a hub for magical and social interactions, deepening their connection.

Gillian uses her magical powers, along with her familiar Pyewacket, to cast a love spell on Shep. The spell is successful, and Shep becomes instantly infatuated with Gillian. Their night out together marks the beginning of their romantic involvement.

After spending the night with Gillian, Shep realizes his feelings for her and breaks up with his fiancée, Merle Kittridge. This decision stems from his growing love for Gillian and sets their romance in motion.

Redlitch, a famous author, arrives at Shep’s office, having been magically compelled to meet Gillian. Shep introduces him to the Holroyds. Redlitch is researching witches in New York City for his upcoming book, which threatens to reveal the secret witch community.

Nicky, Gillian’s brother, discloses his magical abilities to Redlitch and offers him access to the hidden world of witches in exchange for a share of the book’s profits. This raises concerns about the exposure of their secret society.

Gillian is torn between her love for Shep and her identity as a witch, knowing that falling in love can cause her to lose her magic. She ultimately decides to marry Shep, risking her powers, which marks a key turning point in her character arc.

Gillian uses her magic to make Shep lose interest in the book project and admits she is a witch. When Shep refuses to believe her, Queenie confirms her story, leading to a rift in their relationship. Gillian’s confession exposes her true identity.

Shep visits Bianca De Pass, a powerful witch, who brews a potion to break Gillian’s love spell. He drinks it, which frees him from her enchantment, and he begins to see her true feelings.

Gillain’s tears reveal her genuine love for Shep. Shep returns Pyewacket, her cat, to her and recognizes her true feelings. Their reconciliation culminates in a passionate kiss as they mend their relationship.

Through a series of events, it is revealed that Pyewacket, Gillian’s familiar, is responsible for shutting off the streetlights. His actions symbolize his loyalty and the magical world’s influence over the city.