Romance Brews Amidst Witchcraft and Secrets

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MOVIE REVIEW
Witchy Ways
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Genre: Fantasy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 34m
Director(s): Jane Clark
Writer(s): Jane Clark
Cast: Diora Baird, Marem Hassler, Candis Cayne, Guinevere Turner, David Fumero, Marc Price, Paul Fox, Ford Austin, Alexandra Barton
Where To Watch: showing at the2024 La Femme International Film Festival on October 24, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: So, I’ll be honest, I didn’t know what to expect from this movie, but I was impressed at nearly every turn! From the opening scenes, WITCHY WAYS casts a spell of intrigue and enchantment, blending fantasy, romance, and humor. Jane Clark directs this magical journey, steering it through a narrative with mystic allure reminiscent of beloved genre staples. At the core of this whimsical exploration is Eve, whose quest for self-discovery and emotional healing is poignantly portrayed by Diora Baird. Her escape from urban madness to a quaint cottage in the countryside marks the first step in her profound metamorphosis. This film has so much heart that it easily overcomes some of the hurdles it faces.

Once Eve meets Danni, the cottage's enigmatic owner, portrayed by Marem Hassler with a compelling blend of mystery and charm, the revelation of Danni's past interweaves a complex story of romance and mystique, deepening their connection through a series of tender, reflective encounters. Adding intrigue to their unfolding story is a secret, a narrative twist that introduces tension and challenges Eve's newfound reality. This element metaphorically underscores the emotional baggage that characters, and indeed all people, carry into their interpersonal relationships.

Candis Cayne’s portrayal of Eve's best friend, Penny, further elevates the story, adding well-timed humor and vitality that prevents the film from descending into melodrama. Her performance anchors the more reflective moments of the film, ensuring it remains accessible and engaging.

Clark’s directorial vision ensures a balance between the realms of the fantastical and the emotional arcs of her characters. On a thematic level, WITCHY WAYS delicately addresses the themes of identity and acceptance, mirroring the journeys with broader societal issues faced by the LGBTQIA2S+ community. The film tackles these issues of rejection and authenticity with an astute sensitivity, broadening its resonance and offering a thoughtful reflection on the challenges faced by those on society's margins.

Some may find the narrative pacing uneven, mainly when the film takes its time to establish the rules of its universe. While these moments are crafted with care, they may slightly hinder some pacing expectations. The film will capture the hearts of audiences, resonating with the LGBTQIA2S+ community for its authentic representation and vibrant storytelling. This story was crafted with passion from the cast and crew. Some moments will remind you of a Hallmark/Lifetime movie, but that isn’t bad; the film knows the story it wants to tell and does so without holding back.

WITCHY WAYS transcends the boundaries of its genre to deliver an entertaining and moving story. It reminds us of the transformative power of love and the magic inherent in embracing our true selves. This film lingers in the minds of its viewers, enchanting them with its personal yet universal tale of self-acceptance and the magic found in everyday connections.

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[photo courtesy of FILMMCQUEEN, PRICKLY PEARS FILMS]

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