In the mid-’90s, the world of cinema witnessed the rise of teen-centric supernatural thrillers that delved into the complexities of adolescence, identity, and the allure of the occult. Two standout films from this era, LITTLE WITCHES (1996) and THE CRAFT (1996), continue to captivate audiences with their unique takes on teenage rebellion and the consequences of dabbling in the supernatural.
LITTLE WITCHES, released in 1996, is a supernatural horror film directed by Jane Simpson. Often regarded as a cult classic, the movie delves into themes of occultism, teenage rebellion, and the consequences of dabbling in dark forces.
Set in a Catholic girls’ school during the 1960s, the film centers around a group of teenage girls who find themselves drawn to a mysterious and hidden Satanic temple within the school’s premises. The protagonist, Faith Ferguson, portrayed by Mimi Rose, is a reserved and intelligent teenager. Her world takes a dark turn when, during Easter break, she is left behind at the school and becomes entangled with a rebellious and wild girl named Jamie, played by Sheeri Rappaport.
The narrative unfolds as the girls stumble upon an ancient book written in Latin within the concealed temple. Faith, fluent in Latin, translates the text, revealing a demonic summoning spell. The film cleverly builds tension as the group contemplates practicing the spell, with Faith’s reluctance stemming from the grim requirement of a virgin sacrifice.
The character dynamics intensify, particularly between Faith and Jamie, as Faith’s burgeoning connection with a construction worker named Daniel adds a romantic subplot. The film skillfully weaves elements of teenage angst, peer pressure, and the allure of forbidden knowledge, creating a captivating blend of horror and drama.
As the girls venture deeper into the occult, the discovery of a guardian’s presence heightens the stakes. Graffiti warnings in the hidden room foreshadow the dire consequences of proceeding with the demonic summoning. The tension escalates further when Jamie plays a cruel trick on Faith, falsely accusing Daniel of attempted assault.
The film takes an unexpected turn with the revelation that Sister Sherilyn, the girls’ teacher, is the guardian tasked with preventing the occult ceremony. The climax unfolds with a mix of suspense and horror as Faith and Sister Sherilyn attempt to thwart the ritual in a race against time, ultimately leading to a tragic resolution.
LITTLE WITCHES stands out for its atmospheric cinematography and a storyline that blends supernatural elements with the challenges of adolescence. The film successfully captures the essence of the 1960s, incorporating elements of rebellion, societal expectations, and the curiosity that often accompanies adolescence.
While LITTLE WITCHES may not have achieved mainstream success like THE CRAFT upon its initial release, its cult following has grown over the years, with viewers appreciating its unique take on the horror genre and its exploration of the complexities of teenage relationships. The film remains a noteworthy entry in the realm of cult horror cinema, offering a distinctive perspective on the convergence of occultism and teenage rebellion.
THE CRAFT, also released in 1996 and directed by Andrew Fleming, is a cult classic that has endured as a defining piece of ’90s teen horror cinema. The film explores themes of power, friendship, and the consequences of unchecked magical abilities.
Set in a Los Angeles high school, THE CRAFT follows the story of Sarah Bailey, portrayed by Robin Tunney, a newcomer with latent witchcraft abilities. Sarah befriends a group of misfit girls: Nancy (Fairuza Balk), Bonnie (Neve Campbell), and Rochelle (Rachel True). As Sarah joins their coven, the quartet discovers that their combined magical powers can manifest their desires.
The film masterfully weaves elements of teenage angst and empowerment, tapping into the universal struggles of adolescence. Each member of the coven represents a different facet of the high school experience—alienation, body image issues, racial discrimination—and the girls find solace and strength in their newfound magical abilities.
What sets THE CRAFT apart is its portrayal of the dark side of power. As the girls delve deeper into the world of witchcraft, their desires escalate, and the consequences of their actions become increasingly severe. The film doesn’t shy away from exploring the moral ambiguity of magic, serving as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of wielding power without responsibility.
Fairuza Balk delivers a standout performance as Nancy, whose descent into darkness becomes a focal point of the narrative. Her portrayal of a troubled and power-hungry witch adds a layer of intensity to the film, and her transformation remains one of the most memorable aspects of THE CRAFT.
The movie also benefits from its atmospheric cinematography and a soundtrack that captures the edgy and rebellious spirit of the ’90s alternative scene. The use of practical effects and visual techniques enhances the film’s supernatural elements, creating an immersive experience for viewers.
Over the years, THE CRAFT has garnered a dedicated fan base, and its impact on popular culture endures. The film is celebrated for its portrayal of female empowerment and the exploration of complex issues faced by teenagers. It has inspired countless discussions on the representation of women in horror and the intersection of magic and coming-of-age narratives.
LITTLE WITCHES and THE CRAFT share thematic elements of occultism, teenage rebellion, and the consequences of wielding supernatural power. Both films have earned a cult following, with their enduring legacies evident in the continued appreciation from audiences and subsequent generations.
In the realm of ’90s teen horror, these films remain touchstones for those seeking narratives that blend the supernatural with the challenges of adolescence. Whether it’s the cautionary tale of LITTLE WITCHES or the exploration of power dynamics in THE CRAFT, these films continue to cast their spell on viewers, proving that the magic of ’90s teen horror is timeless.
~David Albaugh