Mental Floss

WITCHES

An 18th-century painting of an exorcism.

Exorcism has a fascinating, unsettling history, and it’s left an indelible mark on pop culture thanks to films like 1973's 'The Exorcist.' Here are six historical exorcisms that are every bit as chilling as anything Hollywood can produce.

April Snellings








Frank Micelotta, Getty Images

The beloved musical 'Wicked' first opened on June 10, 2003 in San Francisco—and it was just announced that it will be turned into a film, hitting theaters December 2021.

Stacy Conradt




Kathy Najimy, Bette Midler, and Sarah Jessica Parker in 'Hocus Pocus' (1993).

For many Millennials, 'Hocus Pocus' is a Halloween classic. Celebrate spooky season with these 11 facts about the beloved Disney Halloween movie.

Stacy Conradt










Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Rachel True, and Neve Campbell in The Craft (1996).

In 1996, 'The Craft'—a movie about a group of teenage witches starring Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell, and Rachel True—hit theaters and completely changed the subgenre.

Andrew LaSane


There's more to witches than pointy hats and broomsticks.

The practice of witchcraft is deeply rooted in history, and has—excuse the joke—conjured up some very interesting myths.

Sean Hutchinson