7 Enchanting B-Movie Horrors That Will Cast a Spell on You

      Casey Chong presents a selection of enjoyable witch films you might have overlooked...

      Films centered on witches are varied, giving filmmakers the opportunity to delve into different representations across genres, ranging from horror to comedy and even musicals. Classics like Practical Magic, The Witches of Eastwick, The Craft, Hocus Pocus, and Into the Woods have illuminated cinema screens over the years. Yet, we shouldn't overlook the cherished 'b-movie'; although they typically lack the significant budgets of Hollywood, many have succeeded in casting their own unique charm and creativity. Here’s a list of seven films that are sure to enchant you…

      **Witchboard (1986)**

      In a decade mainly dominated by slasher films, writer-director Kevin Tenney navigates the witchcraft genre with Witchboard. The film’s title references the Ouija board, which one of the characters, Linda, played by Tawny Kitaen, becomes obsessed with to communicate with the spirit of a young boy. This frequent usage leads her down a dark path, awakening a malevolent force reminiscent of an axe-wielding killer. The movie carries the quintessential charm of '80s B-movies, yet Tenney avoids the excessive gore typical of the era, instead opting for a build-up of atmospheric tension and dread rooted in Linda's escalating obsession with the board. Witchboard eventually led to two sequels, Witchboard 2: The Devil's Doorway and Witchboard III: The Possession, and a recent reboot by Chuck Russell in August.

      **Witchboard 2: The Devil's Doorway (1993)**

      Kevin Tenney returns for the sequel, Witchboard 2: The Devil's Doorway, opting for a fresh storyline and characters rather than a direct continuation. This installment features Paige (Ami Dolenz), a budding artist who uncovers an Ouija board in her new Los Angeles apartment. Similar to the first film, her initial fun interaction with a supposed friendly spirit evolves into an obsession with the board. With a larger budget this time, Tenney crafts his narrative and characters with a careful blend of mystery and supernatural horror. This budget also permits grander set pieces, including a dramatic car crash involving a motorboat and a victim being crushed by a swinging wrecking ball. At one point, Tenney nods to the Evil Dead's signature camera style from the perspective of a malevolent spirit. Dolenz delivers a strong performance, transforming from a gentle young woman into a completely different character after possession.

      **The Devil’s Rain (1975)**

      Director Robert Fuest, known for his work on TV's The Avengers and films like And Soon the Darkness and The Abominable Dr. Phibes, embraces the quintessential B-movie essence in The Devil’s Rain. It thrusts viewers into the action as Mark Preston (William Shatner) seeks to confront the cult leader Jonathan Corbis (Ernest Borgnine) following the horrifying death of his father. Notably, Anton Lavey, the founder of the Church of Satan, served as a technical advisor; however, the film leans more towards surrealism than authenticity. Borgnine delivers a campy performance as the over-the-top antagonist, complete with goat horns and satanic makeup. Look out for a young John Travolta in his film debut as a cult member, and the unforgettable chaotic finale featuring strange and gooey melting effects.

      **The Wretched (2019)**

      Remarkably, a mere budget of $66,000 can yield great results when a filmmaker knows how to maximize limited resources, as seen in The Wretched. The co-directors, known as The Pierce Brothers, skillfully blend witchcraft horror with supernatural elements and teen drama. The plot centers on a teenager named Ben (John-Paul Howard), who suspects his neighbor is under a witch's spell. The Pierce Brothers heavily emphasize ominous dread, enhanced by Conor Murphy’s atmospheric cinematography that conveys constant unease. Though the film contains jump scares, they are used judiciously, allowing the performances to shine—particularly Howard's portrayal of a troubled teen grappling with family issues and the unknown. The Wretched also excels in practical and makeup effects, especially showcasing the witch’s grotesque appearance through effective lighting and shadow use.

      **The Kiss (1988)**

      Pen Densham, primarily known as a producer for films like Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, took a turn in directing with the dark fantasy-horror The Kiss. While it initially flopped, Densham's ambition in merging witchcraft horror with supernatural themes and elements of soft erotic thriller is evident. Joanna Pacula stars as a mysterious aunt who visits her late sister’s widower (Nicholas Kilbertus) and his teenage daughter (Amy played by Meredith Salenger). Pacula’s role as a deceptive witch harnessing seduction and voodoo magic allows for several gory death scenes arranged like pre-Final Destination scenarios as she