“The Witches” (1990 vs 2020)

10/22/24 • 26 min

3 Listeners

Sparrows Under Review Podcast - Episode [#]: “The Witches” (1990 vs 2020)

Hosts: Stacey and Jr

In this episode of Sparrows Under Review, Stacey and JR dive into a head-to-head comparison of two adaptations of Roald Dahl’s The Witches — the original 1990 film and the 2020 remake. Both hosts share their candid thoughts on what worked and what didn’t in each version.

Key Discussion Points:

•The Witches (1990): Featuring Anjelica Huston as the terrifying Grand High Witch, Stacey and JR highlight the film’s chilling tone and practical effects that made it a childhood horror staple. They also discuss the darker, grittier atmosphere that stays true to Dahl’s original book.

•The Witches (2020): Despite a talented cast, including Anne Hathaway and Octavia Spencer, the hosts agree that the modern remake lacked the unsettling magic of its predecessor. While they acknowledge the humor and heart brought by Spencer, Hathaway’s over-the-top portrayal and reliance on CGI left both Stacey and JR feeling that the film didn’t live up to its potential.

•Comparing Practical Effects vs. CGI: The hosts explore how the 1990 film’s practical effects created a more visceral experience, whereas the 2020 version leaned too heavily on CGI, which diminished its impact.

•Tone and Atmosphere: Stacey and JR note the shift in tone between the two films, with the 1990 adaptation embracing a more haunting and suspenseful feel, while the 2020 version opted for a family-friendly approach that some may find less impactful.

Final Verdict: Both Stacey and JR agree that The Witches (1990) outshines the 2020 version, despite the star power in the latter. They argue that the timeless charm and spookiness of the original remain unmatched.

Be sure to tune in for a nostalgic trip back to one of Roald Dahl’s most beloved — and scariest — stories!

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Sparrows Under Review Podcast - Episode [#]: “The Witches” (1990 vs 2020)

Hosts: Stacey and Jr

Key Discussion Points:

Be sure to tune in for a nostalgic trip back to one of Roald Dahl’s most beloved — and scariest — stories!

Get bonus content on Patreon

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

1992

2 Recommendations

Sparrows UnderReview: 1992 (2024)

Episode Summary:

Stacey and JR dive into the gritty world of 1992, a heist thriller set during the first night of the 1992 Los Angeles riots. Directed by Ariel Vromen and starring Tyrese Gibson, Scott Eastwood, and the late Ray Liotta, the film captures the chaos and intensity of this historical moment through the lens of crime and survival. The hosts discuss the film’s atmosphere, the performances, and how it uses the backdrop of the LA riots to heighten the stakes. They also explore the director’s choice to simplify the title from April 29, 1992 to 1992 and how it impacts the film’s narrative focus.

In This Episode:

•Historical Setting: Stacey and JR examine how the film portrays the tension and urgency of the 1992 LA riots.

•Character Dynamics: A breakdown of the performances by Tyrese Gibson and Scott Eastwood, highlighting their chemistry and how they drive the film’s narrative.

•Ray Liotta’s Role: A special segment dedicated to Liotta’s performance and legacy in crime cinema.

•Visuals and Atmosphere: Discussion on Frank G. DeMarco’s cinematography and how it enhances the chaotic, gritty feel of the movie.

•Directorial Choices: The hosts debate Ariel Vromen’s storytelling approach and the impact of changing the film’s title.

Tune in to hear Stacey and JR’s full breakdown of 1992 and whether they think it’s a fresh take on the heist genre or a missed opportunity!

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Next Episode

Part 2 Hocus Pocus 1 and 2

1 Recommendations

Sparrows Under Review Podcast -“Hocus Pocus” (1993 vs. 2022)

Hosts: Stacey and JR

In this Halloween-themed episode of Sparrows Under Review, Stacey and JR conjure up a spirited discussion on Disney’s Hocus Pocus and its long-awaited sequel. They break down the magic (and the mayhem) of both films, discussing why Hocus Pocus (1993) became a cult classic and how Hocus Pocus 2 (2022) stacks up.

Key Discussion Points:

•Hocus Pocus (1993): Stacey and JR explore the original film’s unique charm, memorable characters, and its place as a staple of 90s Halloween nostalgia. They discuss the unforgettable performances of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the Sanderson Sisters, who brought humor and fright to a generation of fans.

•Hocus Pocus 2 (2022): With modern effects and fresh faces, the sequel introduces the Sanderson Sisters to a new generation. Stacey and JR review the updated story, new cast members, and whether the film captures the spirit of the original. Both hosts weigh in on how Hocus Pocus 2 balances fan service with a contemporary twist, comparing the sequel’s humor, scares, and heart.

•Comparing Themes & Tone: They discuss how the two films approach Halloween and witchcraft in different ways, with Hocus Pocus (1993) capturing a darker yet whimsical tone, and Hocus Pocus 2 leaning into a more family-friendly, upbeat vibe.

•Nostalgia Factor vs. Fresh Perspective: Stacey and JR debate if Hocus Pocus 2 successfully taps into nostalgia while also standing on its own. They share their thoughts on the return of the Sanderson Sisters, the updated costumes and effects, and whether or not the sequel lives up to the original’s legacy.

Final Verdict: Though both hosts agree that Hocus Pocus (1993) holds a unique magic, they find themselves split on the sequel — with some moments delighting and others missing the mark.

Join Stacey and JR as they decide if the Sanderson Sisters have cast a spell that will last another 30 years!

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