Bewitched
Originally published on social media on October 30th, 2022
Halloween is here now!
Each Halloween is different for me: when I was a kid, I dressed up in fun costumes, went trick or treating, and (no surprise here) watched Halloween themed movies throughout October. In my adult years, I’ve usually done one of those traditions if not all of them. I’ve loved this film ever since it came out in 2005, but this tradition was on hiatus for a few years until it found me again last year. I don’t really know why I stopped watching this film for a while because it is absolutely lovely. Here’s why:
The whole premise of the film is an actual witch becoming involved in a remake of the classic T.V. Show “Bewitched”. With that, this film is filled with old Hollywood nostalgia and Nora Ephron’s magical touch.
I love Nora Ephron. She was an incredible writer and director, and everything she touches is warm, romantic, real, and hilarious. We have her to thank for “When Harry Met Sally”, “You’ve Got Mail”, “Mixed Nuts”, and SO MANY OTHERS. Nora Ephron is also famous for her sense of style. Basically, I would gladly live in any of her films including this one. Oh and I would also be glad to have any one of her film soundtracks play in the background of my life. Well, I guess they basically do if you count listening to movie soundtracks in the car or while making dinner. Bewitched has a fantastic soundtrack, each song pairs with each moment divinely.
There is a basic premise to this film, but what it’s truly about it is learning to love and enjoy all the little delights of being human. Things like opening cans of soda, popping popcorn in the microwave, watching old T.V. shows, making friends, and falling in love. No one would ever guess that Nicole Kidman and Will Ferrell would have good chemistry because they seem so different, but their chemistry is genuine, friendly, and delightful. Their romance is simple, has a sort of innocence to it, and has that old Hollywood serendipity that is so refreshing.
Everyone in their cast fits their roles like a glove. How can you go wrong with Shirley MacLaine, Michael Caine, Steve Carrell, Kristen Chenoweth, and Heather Burns?!
Have a Happy Halloween!