Dickens & Rumi
Cover of The Witches

film

The Witches

1990

While staying at a hotel in England with his grandmother, Helga, a young boy named Luke inadvertently spies on a convention of witches. The Grand High Witch reveals a plan to turn all children into mice via a magical formula. When they discover the eavesdropper, the witches test the formula on him. Now, with the help of Helga and hotel manager Mr Stringer, Luke the mouse must fight back against the witches.

Ages 10+Source checked

Why this age? The film is family-oriented but includes frightening witches, threatening transformations, danger to children, bereavement, and unsettling creature effects that may trouble younger viewers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

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At a glance

Recommended age10+

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes4/5
  • Death of a character2/5
  • Graphic injury2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models3/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character2/5
Why this rating?

Characters are threatened with extermination; some minor casualties occur within the context of the plot.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Includes brief, slightly grotesque depictions of the witches' true, mutated forms.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Includes occasional mild name-calling and insults.

Frightening scenes4/5
Why this rating?

Witches, sinister plans, child endangerment, suspense, and grotesque transformations make this notably frightening for some children.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Characters may be shown with cigars or pipes, reflecting the time period and character archetypes.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Fantasy peril, pursuit, magical attacks, and slapstick conflict occur as Luke and allies oppose the witches; violence is generally not graphic.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

A child facing transformation and powerful witches repeatedly acts bravely to protect others despite serious fear and danger.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

The imaginative premise, magical transformation, inventive resistance, and unusual mouse perspective strongly encourage fantasy play and creative thinking.

Diverse representation1/5
Why this rating?

Limited representation; reflects the casting demographics of the period.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental learning regarding storytelling and folklore.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Family affection, caregiving, friendship, and cooperation are important in resisting the witches and protecting children.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Promotes bravery, the importance of family bonds, and the idea that children can make a difference.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Luke is a brave protagonist, and his grandmother is a strong, protective parental figure.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in The Witches would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in The Witches, and what caused that change?
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