The 2020 Remake of Roald Dahl’s The Witches: A Disappointing Attempt at Diversity

Introduction

The 2020 remake of Roald Dahl's classic novel, The Witches, starring Anne Hathaway, has garnered a polarized reception among viewers and film critics alike. While some may argue that the modern adaptation captures the essence of the beloved characters and story, this article explores the critical failures of the remake, especially in its handling of race and diversity. Despite efforts to incorporate more diverse casts, the 2020 version seems to fall short in several areas, raising questions about the appropriateness of racial politics in a film intended for younger audiences.

The Power of the Original 1990 Adaptation

The 1990 adaptation of Roald Dahl's novel is widely regarded as superior to its 2020 counterpart by many fans and critics. Directed by Henry Selick and starring Anjelica Huston as the elderly witch and Angela Lansbury as the Grand High Witch, this version managed to maintain the dark and whimsical tone that so effectively captures the essence of Dahl's narrative. The 1990 version struck a perfect balance, delivering a timeless tale that resonated with both children and adults, without any forced attempts to incorporate modern themes or diverse casting.

Cons and Criticisms of the 2020 Remake

The 2020 remake, though featuring strong performances by actors like Anne Hathaway and McKenna Ashworth, lacks the poignancy and charm of its predecessor. More importantly, it fails to deliver in terms of thematic consistency and narrative depth. One of the most significant criticisms stems from its apparent attempt at what critics have termed "black-washing." In an effort to appeal to a more modern audience, particularly individuals involved in the Academy Awards, the remake introduces a racially charged element that feels out of place in a film aimed at children.

Racial Politics in a Children’s Film

Perhaps the most controversial element of the 2020 adaptation is a scene where a white hotel staff member makes a racially insensitive remark to a young African American boy: “It’s not every day a young man such as yourself can stay in a place like this.” This remark, as apparently deliberate as it may be, serves as a stark reminder of the racial undertones that the filmmakers attempted to infuse into what should be a purely magical and whimsical experience. The inclusion of such a line not only feels misplaced but also undermines the film's intended charm and appeal.

The Impact on the Original Story

Roald Dahl's novels, known for their unique and often dark humor, have always been celebrated for their innocence and magic. The attempt to add complex racial dynamics into the narrative detracts from this inherent innocence. The 2020 version struggles to reconcile these elements, leading to a disjointed and somewhat forced storyline. Instead of enhancing the original story, the inclusion of such a racial remark aims to appeal to a more adult sensibility, which is particularly inappropriate for a film aimed at a younger audience.

Conclusion: A Remake That Failed to Meet Expectations

While the 2020 remake of “The Witches” offers some visually stunning elements and decent performances, it ultimately falls short in its fundamental storytelling and thematic approach. The decision to include racially charged dialogue in a children’s film, regardless of the filmmakers' intentions, results in a less compelling and less enjoyable viewing experience. The original 1990 adaptation remains a favorite for many due to its perfect encapsulation of Roald Dahl's magical and humorous essence. The 2020 remake, despite some notable performances, simply does not come close to capturing the magic and whimsy of the original.