If you’re into dark, creepy movies that twist classic stories, check out some of the films from director Osgood Perkins. His latest is a thriller called Longlegs, but one of his coolest movies is a remake of Hansel and Gretel called Gretel & Hansel.
Instead of the normal upbeat fairy tale, Perkins turns this one very grim. The siblings get lost in a scary forest and find an even scarier witch. Played so well by Alice Krige, she lures them in then reveals her truly disturbing nature.
What’s really neat is how Perkins focuses the story on Gretel, played by Sophia Lillis from It. She’s dealing with limited options as a girl in this harsh time period. The witch offers to teach her magic, but it comes with a price. You can really feel Gretel’s struggle between asserting power and protecting her brother.
All of Perkins’ films have an eerie Gothic style too. He uses shadows, ominous music, and a generally unsettling vibe. Gretel & Hansel is just dripping with atmosphere. It makes the witch’s house feel extra sinister and creepy.
There are also deeper themes about females navigating a dangerous world. Magic represents both strength and corruption. I won’t spoil the ending, but it packs a haunting punch.
If you want something dark that puts a twist on a classic story, check out Gretel & Hansel. Just don’t watch it alone at night! Perkins is a master of unsettling fairy tales with his super distinctive vision.
