The Legend of the Christmas Witch

The story unfolds in modern times, anchored by Paola's day-to-day life and a subsequent twenty-five-year jump to a renewed confrontation. Epiphany night marks the recurring magical events, when the Befana appears at midnight to grant wishes or issue tests. A sci-fi-like chase with a jet-propelled hoverboard hints at a near-present setting rather than a distant era.

Set in a small Italian town, the narrative moves between a classroom, Paola's storage cellar, a bustling toy factory, and a rugged mountain. The town's ordinary spaces conceal a magical secret that becomes the battlefield for a clash between tradition and greed. The locale's charm and danger intertwine, showing how place shapes the Befana's powers and the fate of the children.

🎄 Tradition

The Befana embodies a long-standing Italian tradition, rooted in gift-giving and mysteries of the night. The film contrasts cherished ritual with the corruption of that ritual by those who seek power. Through Paola's dual life, the story explores how communities hold onto folklore even as it is exploited. The tension between preserving wonder and facing reality drives the emotional core of the tale.

🎁 Belief

Childhood wishes and letters fuel the magic at the heart of the narrative. When those wishes fall into the wrong hands, belief becomes a weapon that can endanger the innocent. The story shows how faith in a magical figure can inspire courage and community action. Ultimately, belief is tested, clarified, and reaffirmed through acts of generosity and resilience.

🧭 Courage

A group of students and adults must confront peril to protect the vulnerable. Riccardo's curiosity and leadership spark the plan to uncover Paola's secret and thwart the villain, highlighting youthful bravery. The climactic pursuit to the mountain and the rescue attempt underscore perseverance against overwhelming odds. Courage here blends quick thinking with selflessness for the greater good.