Watch Season of the Witch
- M
- 1973
- 1 hr 29 min
-
5.6 (4,011)
Season of the Witch is a 1972 horror film directed by George A. Romero and starring Jan White, Raymond Laine, and Ann Muffly. The film tells the story of a suburban housewife named Joan Mitchell, who is experiencing strange and terrifying visions. As her mental state deteriorates, she becomes convinced that she is being targeted by a coven of witches who are using her as a vessel for their dark rituals.
The film opens with Joan in therapy with her psychiatrist, Dr. Miller. She tells him about the nightmares she has been having, which involve her being chased by a mysterious figure and a group of women in black cloaks. Dr. Miller chalks it up to stress and prescribes her some medication, but Joan continues to have visions and begins to believe that she is possessed by a witch.
As the story unfolds, we are introduced to several other characters who are connected to Joan in various ways. Her husband, Jack, is a businessman who is rarely home and has little interest in his wifeâs mental health. Her friend Shirley is a free-spirited woman who is intrigued by the idea of witchcraft and tries to help Joan by conducting a séance. And Gregg, a young man who works at a local bookstore, becomes involved with Joan when she comes to him seeking information about witchcraft.
As Joanâs visions become more intense and her behavior more erratic, she becomes increasingly isolated from her family and friends. She starts to believe that the witches are not only after her, but also after her daughter, who she fears may also be possessed. In a desperate attempt to save her daughter, Joan turns to the occult and seeks out a coven of witches in the hopes of finding a way to rid herself of the evil that has taken hold of her.
Season of the Witch is a slow-burning, psychological horror film that explores themes of female empowerment and oppression. Joan is a complex character who is both sympathetic and disturbing. She is a woman who is struggling with her identity in a world that doesnât value her, and her descent into madness is both frightening and tragic.
The film is also notable for its use of imagery and symbolism. The witches in the film are portrayed as powerful, menacing figures who use their sexuality to manipulate and control others. There are several scenes that are visually striking, such as when Joan attends a witchâs Sabbath and witnesses a ritual involving the sacrifice of a goat.
Overall, Season of the Witch is a thought-provoking and unsettling horror film that is sure to resonate with those who are interested in exploring the darker aspects of the human psyche. While it may be too slow-paced for some viewers, it rewards those who are willing to stick with it with a chilling and unforgettable finale.
Season of the Witch is a 1973 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 29 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.6 and a MetaScore of 40.