The Witches

The Witches

Year: 1990

Runtime: 91 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Nicolas Roeg

AdventureMysteryFantasyHorrorComedyFamily

A curious boy named Luke and his wise grandmother discover an international coven of witches has gathered at their hotel. The Grand High Witch is plotting to transform all the children in England into mice, and Luke finds himself in grave danger. He must use his wits and courage to expose their wicked plan and stop the witches before he becomes their next victim, facing a formidable and magical enemy.

The Witches (1990) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at The Witches (1990) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In a world where the ordinary masks the uncanny, a seaside town in England glistens under crisp autumn skies, its cobblestone streets and historic hotels humming with quiet charm and hidden whispers. The atmosphere balances a playful sense of wonder with an undercurrent of menace, as the ordinary routines of daily life occasionally flicker with the eerie possibility that something far more sinister may be lurking just out of sight. This delicate blend of warmth and foreboding sets the stage for a tale that feels both timeless and freshly unsettling.

At the heart of the story is Luke, a curious boy still raw from the loss of his parents, whose grief has turned his world into a quiet echo. He finds solace in the steady presence of his wise and spirited grandmother, Grandma, whose boundless imagination and deep‑seated knowledge of old folklore become a lantern in his darkness. Their relationship is a tender dance of healing and adventure, each learning to trust the other’s strengths: Luke’s relentless curiosity and Grandma’s seasoned optimism. Together they navigate the mundane and the magical, finding moments of joy in the simplest things—a small mouse, a shared story, a quiet evening by the fireplace.

When a trip to a grand, old hotel promises a temporary escape, the pair stumble upon an unlikely gathering: a coven of witches convened under the gilded chandeliers of the ballroom. The presence of these hidden practitioners hints at a hidden, world‑wide network of dark enchantments, and the Grand High Witch’s looming scheme introduces a shadow that could upend the lives of every child in England. Faced with this unsettling revelation, Luke must summon his wits and courage, while his grandmother’s quiet resolve offers both guidance and a reminder that bravery often comes in unexpected forms. The stage is set for a daring confrontation that blends cleverness, heart, and a dash of mischievous magic, all while the hotel’s historic walls whisper of secrets waiting to be uncovered.

Last Updated: August 10, 2025 at 13:37

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Movies with child heroes facing magical danger like The Witches

Children facing magical threats with courage, wit, and a touch of whimsy.Find more movies like The Witches where brave children are pitted against supernatural forces. These similar family fantasy stories feature young protagonists using their wits and courage to overcome magical villains and wicked plots.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative typically follows a child who discovers a hidden, magical threat to their world. They must embark on a covert mission, often with the help of a wise adult or friend, to expose and defeat the villain. The journey emphasizes resourcefulness over brute strength, culminating in a victory that proves the power of innocence and determination.

Why These Movies?

Movies in this thread share a specific emotional mix: the genuine tension of a child in peril is balanced by a whimsical, magical setting and a fundamentally hopeful tone. The focus is on the child's courageous journey, making the stakes feel personal and the triumph deeply satisfying.

Bittersweet fantasy movies with found family like The Witches

Magical adventures where victory comes with a poignant, lasting cost.Discover bittersweet fantasy films similar to The Witches, where the heroes win but their victory has a lasting emotional cost. If you liked the ending of The Witches, you'll appreciate these stories that blend triumph with poignant sacrifice and found family themes.

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Narrative Summary

The plot follows a classic heroic arc against a magical adversary, but the resolution subverts a purely happy ending. The protagonist's success involves a significant, irreversible change or loss. The narrative then focuses on accepting this new normal, finding solace and strength in the bonds formed during the struggle, creating a deeply felt ending that is both victorious and melancholic.

Why These Movies?

This thread groups movies based on their unique emotional conclusion. They share a blend of triumphant fantasy action with a poignant, reflective ending. The focus on found family provides a heartwarming counterbalance to the central loss, creating a specific and memorable viewing experience.

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Witches

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