Horror Classic Movie "The Craft"

“The Craft: Weaving Magic, Friendship, and Some Seriously Wicked Style”

The Craft is a supernatural cult classic that casts a spell on its audience with a unique blend of horror, teenage angst, and a dash of ‘90s fashion that can only be described as “goth chic”. This film follows a group of high school misfits who stumble upon the mystical world of witchcraft, which leads them down a path of power, friendship, and unforeseen consequences.

At its core, The Craft is a coming-of-age tale with a dark twist. It explores themes of empowerment, identity, and the seductive allure of using magic to shape one’s destiny. But let’s not forget the most crucial element, the fabulous squad of witches who rule the school with their captivating spells and killer fashion sense.

The film introduces us to Nancy, the charismatic and slightly unhinged leader, played brilliantly by Fairuza Balk, who is one of 90’s badass babes. Nancy’ transformation from outcast to power-hungry witch is as captivating as her over-the-top eyeliner. With stares that could make Medusa quiver and a wardrobe that screams Hot Topic’s greatest hits. She becomes the embodiment of a teenage witch gone wild, picture Anti Sabrina The Teenage Witch.

The addition of Robin Tunney, Neve Campbell, and Rachel True complete this coven of complexity. Tunney’s character, Sarah, is the newcomer with latent magical abilities trying to find her place among the witches. Campbell brings a delicate vulnerability to her character Bonnie, a girl scarred by her past but seeking redemption. True’s portrayal of Rochelle, a victim of racial discrimination, adds yet another layer of social commentary that grounds the film in reality.

Together they form a tight-knit group, creating a bond that allows their abilities to grow off of one another. Who could forget when they played light as a feather stiff as a board during a sleepover. And how in one scene the group comes together in a powerful ritual to invoke the elements and cast a spell. Showcasing both their growing bond and foreshadowing future events.

One of the most iconic scenes was in the locker room. After enduring relentless racist taunts from a fellow student, Rochelle decides to take matters into her own hands. With a simple spell, she unleashes her wrath and causes the bully's hair to fall out. The scene manages to be both empowering and satisfying, while also showcasing the terrifying abilities the girls control with their magic.

How about Bonnie's transformation? Having to deal with the burden of scars from her childhood covering her body. In a mirror reflection we see a spell cast to reveal her true beauty and we witness all the scars disappear, leaving us a little teary eyed. I mean poetic nature, right. But soon we start to see the facade of good deed witches go down the crapper. Nancy is set out for revenge in the bedroom scene with Chris, who’s under the coven spells. Nancy seduces and allures him in with a glamor spell and poses as Sarah since she seems to have an infatuation with Chris.

But what truly makes The Craft stand out is its examination of the dark side of power. As the witches embrace their abilities, their desires twist into dangerous obsessions. Like the epic final showdown where Sarah uses her magic to confront Nancy, who has spiraled into madness and become a threat to herself and others. Sarah's compassion and empathy shine through as she attempts to save Nancy from destruction.

The film serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that unchecked power and revenge can lead to a downward spiral that even the most glamorous spells can’t fix. And can I point out how awesome the glamor spells are? The hair and eye color changes were the epitome of every girl's teenage dreams. I mean me being acne ridden and prone to bad hair day for 80% of my school years, not going to lie, made me want to become a witch.

But Let’s not forget the fabulous ‘90s aesthetics that have aged like a fine bottle of infused wine. Velvet chokers, plaid skirts, and an abundance of black clothing come together to create a fashion statement that still inspires Halloween costumes and alternative fashion trends today. The Craft taught us that witches not only have magical powers but an impeccable sense of style.

In a genre often dominated by male-driven narrative, The Craft flipped the script and placed young strong women at the forefront. It became an anthem for outsiders, empowering viewers to embrace their own uniqueness and reject conformity. It reminds us that the strength of friendship, even when wrapped in a supernatural package, can overcome even the darkest of spells.

So light your black candles, dust off your spellbooks, and indulge in the wickedly enchanting world of The Craft. It’s a film with captivating characters, mesmerizing style and a reminder that sometimes, a little bit of magic can be both thrilling and perilous.