The Witches (2020): Netflix Rating & Movie Review

Hey guys! Let's dive into The Witches (2020), especially its Netflix rating and whether it's worth your time. This movie has been quite the talk of the town, and we're here to give you the lowdown. So, grab your popcorn, and let’s get started!

What's the Buzz About? The Witches (2020) Overview

The Witches (2020) is a remake of the classic 1990 film based on Roald Dahl's novel of the same name. This time around, we have Anne Hathaway stepping into the shoes of the Grand High Witch, and the setting shifts to 1960s Alabama. The story follows a young boy who stumbles upon a convention of witches, leading to a series of fantastical and frightening events. Directed by Robert Zemeckis, known for hits like Forrest Gump and Back to the Future, this movie promised a fresh take on a beloved tale. The plot revolves around a young orphaned boy who goes to live with his grandmother in the rural Alabama town of Demopolis. His grandmother is a strong, independent woman who is a former teacher. She teaches him about the dangers of witches and how to spot them. While staying at a fancy hotel, they discover that the Grand High Witch has gathered all the witches of the world to put a plan in motion to turn children into mice. The movie blends dark fantasy with a touch of humor, aiming to entertain both kids and adults. However, it has received mixed reviews, with many comparing it to the original film and book. One of the main points of contention has been the visual effects, particularly the design of the witches. Some viewers found them creepy and effective, while others felt they were too cartoonish and lacked the charm of the practical effects used in the 1990 version. Nevertheless, The Witches (2020) brings a modern sensibility to the classic story, with a diverse cast and updated themes that resonate with contemporary audiences. The film’s appeal lies in its ability to transport viewers to a world of magic and danger, where the line between reality and fantasy is blurred. Whether you're a fan of Roald Dahl or just looking for a spooky family movie, The Witches (2020) offers something to enjoy. So, get ready to be enchanted, thrilled, and maybe even a little scared as you join the adventure.

Netflix Rating: What Do the Numbers Say?

When we talk about the Netflix rating for The Witches (2020), it's essential to understand that Netflix doesn't provide a single, universal rating like IMDb or Rotten Tomatoes. Instead, Netflix uses its own algorithm to determine how well a movie is performing among its subscribers. This algorithm takes into account factors like viewing time, completion rate, and user ratings within the platform. Generally, The Witches (2020) has been a popular choice on Netflix, consistently appearing in the top 10 lists in many countries. This indicates a high level of viewership and engagement, suggesting that many subscribers found the movie appealing. However, it's worth noting that popularity on Netflix doesn't always equate to critical acclaim. The film's performance on Netflix is more a reflection of its immediate appeal to a broad audience, which includes families looking for entertainment. If you are looking for a more concrete rating, sites like IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes offer aggregate scores from professional critics and general viewers. These scores can provide a more balanced view of the movie's overall reception. Netflix's rating system is more about predicting what users might enjoy based on their viewing habits, making it a useful tool for discovery but not necessarily a definitive judgment of quality. Nevertheless, the fact that The Witches (2020) has remained a popular choice on Netflix suggests that it has successfully captured the attention of its target audience. Whether you're a fan of the original movie or new to the story, the film offers a blend of fantasy, humor, and adventure that can be enjoyed by viewers of all ages. So, if you're browsing through Netflix and looking for something to watch, The Witches (2020) might just be the perfect pick for a fun movie night.

Critical Reception: What Are the Critics Saying?

Critically, The Witches (2020) received mixed reviews. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 62% approval rating, based on reviews from critics, with an average rating of 5.9/10. The site's consensus reads, "The Witches lacks the subversive bite of the source material, but it’s a visually impressive and reasonably entertaining update." This indicates that while the movie has its merits, it falls short of capturing the magic and depth of Roald Dahl's original story. Many critics praised Anne Hathaway's performance as the Grand High Witch, noting her charisma and commitment to the role. However, some felt that the character's portrayal lacked the iconic status of Anjelica Huston's version in the 1990 film. The visual effects also drew mixed reactions, with some appreciating the modern CGI and creature design, while others found it overly cartoonish and lacking in the charm of practical effects. The Hollywood Reporter noted that the film "never quite finds its footing," while Variety described it as a "decently entertaining but ultimately unmemorable adaptation." These reviews suggest that the movie is enjoyable on a surface level, but it doesn't leave a lasting impression. On the other hand, some critics appreciated the film's diverse cast and updated themes, arguing that it brings a fresh perspective to the classic story. The Guardian praised the movie for its inclusivity and representation, stating that it "offers a more diverse and contemporary take on Dahl's tale." Ultimately, the critical reception of The Witches (2020) highlights its strengths and weaknesses. While the movie may not be a perfect adaptation, it still offers enough entertainment value to be worth watching, especially for those who enjoy fantasy and adventure. Whether you're a fan of the original book or film, or simply looking for a fun movie to watch with the family, The Witches (2020) has something to offer. So, don't let the mixed reviews deter you – give it a try and see for yourself!

Is It Worth Watching? My Personal Take

So, is The Witches (2020) worth watching? In my opinion, yes, it is! While it might not reach the heights of the 1990 classic, it offers a fun and entertaining experience for the whole family. Anne Hathaway's performance is a definite highlight, and the visuals are impressive, even if they occasionally lean towards the cartoonish side. The movie is a solid choice if you're looking for a lighthearted fantasy adventure. It’s not a cinematic masterpiece, but it’s definitely enjoyable. One of the things I appreciated about the movie was its attempt to modernize the story. The setting in 1960s Alabama adds a unique flavor, and the diverse cast is a welcome change. However, I can understand why some viewers might find the CGI a bit off-putting. The original film relied heavily on practical effects, which gave the witches a more realistic and terrifying appearance. The 2020 version goes for a more fantastical approach, which can feel less grounded. Nevertheless, The Witches (2020) has its own charm and appeal. It's a movie that you can watch with your kids without worrying about overly scary content, and it has enough humor to keep everyone entertained. If you're a fan of Roald Dahl, you might appreciate this modern take on his classic tale. Just don't go in expecting a carbon copy of the original – this version has its own identity. In conclusion, The Witches (2020) is a fun, visually appealing, and entertaining movie that is worth watching, especially if you're in the mood for a family-friendly fantasy adventure. So, grab your popcorn, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the magical ride!

Final Verdict

Alright, guys, let's wrap it up! The Witches (2020) might not be a perfect movie, but it’s a solid choice for a family movie night. Its Netflix rating reflects its popularity, and while critics are divided, the film offers enough entertainment to be worth your time. Anne Hathaway shines as the Grand High Witch, and the visuals are sure to captivate. So, go ahead and give it a watch – you might just find yourself enjoying this magical adventure! Whether you're a longtime fan of The Witches or new to the story, this remake brings a fresh and modern twist that's sure to entertain. Don't let the mixed reviews deter you; it's a fun and engaging film that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Happy watching!