Not-So-Scary Movies About Witches for the Whole Family
When it comes to horror movies, classic folklore characters like witches have always played a significant role. These spell-casters are often portrayed as ruthless bringers of doom in some of the darkest tales ever told on the big screen. However, there are also many films that showcase witches in a lighter, more family-friendly manner. If you’re looking to introduce the younger members of your family to the world of witches as Halloween approaches, we’ve got you covered. Here is a collection of not-so-scary movies about witches that you can easily find for streaming or digital rental.
The Witches (1990)
A young orphan and his grandmother must find a way to defeat a gathering of evil sorceresses at an English hotel after their leader transforms the boy into a mouse.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: While this adaptation of Roald Dahl’s “The Witches” can be creepy at times, it offers a unique and less terrifying take on witches compared to other films in the genre.
The Wizard Of Oz (1939)
After a tornado transports a Kansas girl and her dog to a magical land, she embarks on a quest with a scarecrow, a tin man, and a lion to find a powerful wizard who can help her return home.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: Although the Wicked Witch of the West is a classic cinematic villain, her appearance is relatively tame by today’s standards, making “The Wizard of Oz” suitable for the whole family.
Bedknobs And Broomsticks (1971)
A witch in training, a cynical magician, and three orphaned children use an enchanted bed to travel the world in search of a missing spell that could aid the British Army during World War II.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: Despite its historical backdrop, “Bedknobs and Broomsticks” is a lighthearted and fun story that deals with witchcraft in a delightful manner, featuring visually stunning sequences that combine live-action footage with animation.
Teen Witch (1989)
A luckless-in-love high school outcast discovers that she is a descendant of spell casters from Salem and uses her newfound magical abilities to improve her social status.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: Unlike other coming-of-age movies about young girls practicing magic, “Teen Witch” focuses on the humorous side of witchcraft, resulting in ridiculous hijinks and innocent moral dilemmas.
Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
A 13-year-old witch-in-training spends a year living on her own and uses her magical abilities to work as a delivery girl for a pregnant bakery owner.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: While magic is prominent in all Studio Ghibli movies, “Kiki’s Delivery Service” stands out for its charming portrayal of witchcraft, featuring a talking black cat and a captivating story rooted in witchcraft folklore.
The Hocus Pocus Movies (1993, 2022)
Three Salem-based sisters, accidentally resurrected by a group of children on Halloween, embark on mischievous adventures.
Why they are not-so-scary witch movies: The original “Hocus Pocus” is a beloved Halloween tradition for fans of all ages and offers a perfect blend of humor and witchcraft. The sequel, exclusive to Disney+, continues the witchy fun.
Sabrina The Teenage Witch (1996)
A young woman discovers on her 16th birthday that she comes from a family of magical beings and must navigate her newfound powers with the help of her eccentric aunts.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: “Sabrina The Teenage Witch” is a feature-length, made-for-TV adaptation of the popular Archie Comics fantasy title. It offers a light-hearted take on witchcraft and stars a young Melissa Joan Hart and Ryan Reynolds.
Practical Magic (1998)
Two sisters, who come from a long line of witches, struggle with societal judgment and a curse that affects their love lives.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: “Practical Magic” is a unique Halloween flick that combines romance and witchcraft. It portrays witchcraft in a relatable and grounded way, making it an enjoyable watch for the whole family.
The Halloweentown Movies (1998-2006)
A young woman from a family of powerful witches embarks on adventures in an alternate dimension filled with ghosts, goblins, and other supernatural creatures.
Why they are not-so-scary witch movies: The “Halloweentown” series, including its sequels, has become a favorite among young Disney lovers. These movies offer a delightful blend of magic and adventure, starring Kimberly J. Brown and Debbie Reynolds.
Scooby-Doo And The Witch’s Ghost (1999)
The Mystery Inc. gang investigates a small town known for its witchcraft legend, only to encounter a villain with real supernatural powers.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: While the Scooby-Doo gang typically deals with people disguised as mythical beings, “Scooby-Doo and the Witch’s Ghost” presents a genuinely powerful supernatural villain, adding a more serious tone to the story.
The House With A Clock In Its Walls (2018)
A young orphaned boy discovers that his uncle is a warlock who needs his help to find a device that could bring about the end of days.
Why it is a not-so-scary witch movie: “The House With A Clock In Its Walls” is a whimsical and mysterious family adventure that showcases magic in a fun and captivating way, appealing to audiences of all ages.
