The Witches of Eastwick, released in theaters on June 12, 1987, is a vibrant, often scandalous, and wildly entertaining film that brilliantly blends supernatural mischief with sharp comedic performances. The movie is a devilishly charming romp that has become a cult classic.
The story centers on three unfulfilled women living in the quaint, conservative New England town of Eastwick: Alexandra Medford (Cher), a sculptor and single mother; Jane Spofford (Susan Sarandon), a shy music teacher; and Sukie Ridgemont (Michelle Pfeiffer), a timid newspaper columnist and mother of six. Each of them, unbeknownst to themselves, possesses latent magical powers.
Frustrated by their mundane lives and longing for the ideal man, they inadvertently conjure up Daryl Van Horne (Jack Nicholson), a mysterious and flamboyant stranger who arrives in town and instantly stirs up chaos. Daryl, who is quite literally the Devil, proceeds to seduce each woman, awakening their powers and unleashing a whirlwind of supernatural events and personal liberation, much to the horror of the town’s gossipy residents, particularly Felicia Alden (Veronica Cartwright).
Nicholson delivers an utterly iconic and uninhibited performance as Daryl Van Horne. He’s charismatic, mischievous, seductive, and terrifying all at once, chewing scenery with a gleeful abandon that is perfectly suited to the role.
Jack Nicholson in The Witches of Eastwick (Photo/Warner Bros.)
Cher, Sarandon, and Pfeiffer are a phenomenal trio, each bringing a distinct personality to their witchy characters and showcasing fantastic comedic timing.
Cher is wonderfully sardonic, Sarandon is delightfully repressed and then unleashed, and Pfeiffer is charmingly wide-eyed and then empowered. Their chemistry, both with each other and with Nicholson, is electric and forms the heart of the film.
Richard Jenkins is excellent supporting role as Clyde Allen.
George Miller (known for the Mad Max series) proves his versatility by directing this wildly different genre with style and panache. He balances the film’s fantasy elements with its sharp wit and character-driven humor. The special effects, while rooted in the 80s, are creatively used to enhance the magical chaos, from tennis balls turning into serpents to melting ice cream.
The screenplay, adapted from John Updike’s novel, is witty and audacious, exploring themes of female empowerment, sexual liberation, and the allure of the forbidden, all wrapped in a darkly comedic package.
The film’s vibrant visual style and memorable score by John Williams add to its unique charm.
Reception for The Witches of Eastwick
The Witches of Eastwick grossed $9.5 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office behind Predator ($12 million) starring Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The film would vault into the top spot in its second weekend, besting Predator by just under $26,000.
The film would gross $103 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film three and a half out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The Witches of Eastwick is a truly unique and entertaining film that embraces its fantastical premise with a mischievous wink. It’s a testament to its brilliant cast, particularly Nicholson’s iconic turn, and a bold blend of comedy, fantasy, and subtle social commentary. For anyone looking for a film that is charmingly scandalous, devilishly funny, and packed with star power, The Witches of Eastwick is an enchanting watch that continues to cast a spell.
