Sparrow's Under Review

“The Witches” (1990 vs 2020)


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Sparrows Under Review Podcast - Episode [#]: “The Witches” (1990 vs 2020)


Hosts: Stacey and Jr


In this episode of Sparrows Under Review, Stacey and JR dive into a head-to-head comparison of two adaptations of Roald Dahl’s The Witches — the original 1990 film and the 2020 remake. Both hosts share their candid thoughts on what worked and what didn’t in each version.


Key Discussion Points:



The Witches (1990): Featuring Anjelica Huston as the terrifying Grand High Witch, Stacey and JR highlight the film’s chilling tone and practical effects that made it a childhood horror staple. They also discuss the darker, grittier atmosphere that stays true to Dahl’s original book.

The Witches (2020): Despite a talented cast, including Anne Hathaway and Octavia Spencer, the hosts agree that the modern remake lacked the unsettling magic of its predecessor. While they acknowledge the humor and heart brought by Spencer, Hathaway’s over-the-top portrayal and reliance on CGI left both Stacey and JR feeling that the film didn’t live up to its potential.

Comparing Practical Effects vs. CGI: The hosts explore how the 1990 film’s practical effects created a more visceral experience, whereas the 2020 version leaned too heavily on CGI, which diminished its impact.

Tone and Atmosphere: Stacey and JR note the shift in tone between the two films, with the 1990 adaptation embracing a more haunting and suspenseful feel, while the 2020 version opted for a family-friendly approach that some may find less impactful.


Final Verdict: Both Stacey and JR agree that The Witches (1990) outshines the 2020 version, despite the star power in the latter. They argue that the timeless charm and spookiness of the original remain unmatched.




Be sure to tune in for a nostalgic trip back to one of Roald Dahl’s most beloved — and scariest — stories!

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Sparrow's Under ReviewBy Stacey Sparrow