Gretel & Hansel (2020) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The story takes place in a small village plagued by hardship during a harsh winter, surrounded by ominous woods. The siblings also encounter Holda's house, a seemingly inviting cottage that conceals dark secrets and danger.

• setting
• village
• woods
• Holda's house
• location

The movie hints at a medieval setting where traditional beliefs in witchcraft and dark magic were prevalent. The harsh winter and the villagers' struggles for survival reflect the folkloric era in which the original Grimm fairy tale originated.

• medieval
• time period
• era
• historical setting

Witchcraft is central to the narrative, exploring both its allure and danger. Gretel's journey involves discovering her own emerging powers, which connect to Holda's dark history as a witch. The theme examines the struggle between good and evil and the consequences of wielding power.

• witchcraft
• magic
• powers
• Holda
• dark magic

The theme of identity emerges as Gretel confronts her own emerging powers and the dark legacy she inherits. Her journey reflects the internal struggle between succumbing to darkness or reclaiming her sense of self, ultimately embodying the importance of self-acceptance.

• identity
• self-discovery
• Gretel
• transformation

Holda is an enigmatic witch who initially appears benevolent, offering food and shelter to the siblings. However, her captivating presence hides sinister intentions, and she embodies the dangers of unchecked power and the temptations of witchcraft.

• Holda
• witch
• antagonist
• villain

Gretel is a determined teenager who serves as the primary protector of her younger brother Hansel. Throughout the story, she discovers her own witch-like powers and evolves from a frightened child into a fierce protector, confronting both external threats and her own dark potential.

• Gretel
• protagonist
• sister
• protector
• powers

The Huntsman is a pivotal character who represents hope and safety for Gretel and Hansel. His timely intervention saves them from immediate danger, and he serves as an ally in their desperate quest for survival.

• Huntsman
• ally
• protector
• helper

The movie explores three major themes: witchcraft as both alluring and dangerous, fear as both an external and internal threat, and identity as Gretel discovers and comes to terms with her own dark powers. These themes intertwine to explore the struggle between good and evil.

• themes
• witchcraft
• fear
• identity
• meaning

Fear is a prevalent theme as Gretel faces threats from the outside world and within herself. Her fear of losing her brother and her haunting visions serve as catalysts for her transformation, capturing the emotional turmoil and instinctual drive to protect loved ones.

• fear
• threat
• danger
• emotional theme

The tone is overwhelmingly dark, rooted in themes of parental abandonment, emotional abuse, and a predatory witch with a history of killing children. The slow pacing builds an oppressive atmosphere through unsettling visuals and Gretel's haunting visions, creating constant psychological tension.

• tone
• atmosphere
• dark
• psychological
• horror

The characters live in a harsh medieval world where folklore about witches and dark magic is real. Survival is difficult during a brutal winter, and villagers face desperation. This world blends fairy tale elements with psychological horror, where magical threats are tangible and dangerous.

• world
• setting
• medieval
• fairy tale
• folklore