Forbidden Magic: 10 Mystical Films to Watch

Description: A group of teenage girls delve into witchcraft, exploring the power and peril of forbidden magic. Their journey takes a dark turn as they unleash forces beyond their control.

Fact: The film was originally intended to be much darker, but the studio pushed for a lighter tone to appeal to a broader audience. The iconic song "How Soon Is Now?" by The Smiths was remixed for the movie's soundtrack.

Description: Two witch sisters confront the curse that has haunted their family for generations, using their magical abilities to break free from the chains of forbidden magic.

Fact: The film was based on a novel by Alice Hoffman, and the house used for the exterior shots is a real location in Coupeville, Washington. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman had to learn basic magic tricks for their roles.

Description: A rare book dealer is hired to authenticate a book that supposedly holds the key to summoning the Devil, leading him into a world of dark magic and secret societies.

Fact: The film was directed by Roman Polanski, who himself has a fascination with the occult. The book featured in the film, "The Nine Gates of the Kingdom of Shadows," was created specifically for the movie.

Description: Three student filmmakers set out to document the legend of the Blair Witch, only to become entangled in a terrifying ordeal of forbidden magic and folklore.

Fact: The film was made on a shoestring budget of around $60,000 and became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $248 million worldwide. The actors were subjected to real fear and confusion during filming to capture genuine reactions.

Description: A hospice nurse uncovers the secrets of Hoodoo magic in an old Louisiana plantation, leading her into a web of dark rituals and forbidden spells.

Fact: The film was shot on location in New Orleans, and the house used for the plantation was actually an old mansion that was restored for the movie. The film's title refers to a key that can open any door, symbolizing the unlocking of hidden knowledge.

Description: A master magician uses his skills to win back his childhood love, but his illusions and forbidden magic draw the attention of the crown prince.

Fact: The film was shot in Prague, and many of the magic tricks were performed live on set by the actors, including Edward Norton, who learned real magic for his role.

Description: Four young men, descendants of powerful witches, must protect their legacy from an ancient evil, exploring the limits of their forbidden powers.

Fact: The film was initially planned as a trilogy, but due to its lukewarm reception, the sequels were never made. The movie features a young Sebastian Stan before his rise to fame.

Description: A young fan of kung fu movies is transported to ancient China, where he must return a magical staff to its rightful owner, encountering forbidden magic along the way.

Fact: This film marks the first time Jackie Chan and Jet Li appeared together on screen. The movie blends elements of Chinese mythology with a modern-day narrative.

Description: A modern-day sorcerer must train his apprentice in the ancient arts of magic to stop an evil sorcerer from unleashing forbidden magic upon the world.

Fact: The film was inspired by the "Sorcerer's Apprentice" segment from Disney's "Fantasia." Nicolas Cage, who plays the sorcerer, was a fan of the original animation and was excited to bring the character to life.

Description: Set in 1630s New England, this film follows a family banished from their Puritan plantation, only to encounter the dark forces of witchcraft in the wilderness.

Fact: The film was shot in a remote location in Canada, and the cast and crew lived in conditions similar to the 17th century to maintain authenticity. The goat in the film, Black Phillip, became an internet sensation.