Bewitched

Brilliant comedy writer, producer and director Nora Ephron (When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, You’ve Got Mail) brings the classic TV show to modern-day life with this fantastic adaptation. Not a direct translation of the original story, Jack Wyatt (Will Ferrell), a frustrated move star is cast in a remake of the magical TV show desperate to get his flailing career back on track. Looking for an unknown to play the part of Samantha (so she will not steal his thunder!) he comes across shy Isabel Bigelow (Nicole Kidman) and casts her. Problem is, she’s a real witch, and although she has promised to down tools on the magical front and try and live a normal life, when his constant self-centredness increasingly annoys her, she begins to wreak havoc.

This is not an Oscar winner, but then it was never supposed to be. Will Ferrell and Nicole Kidman are on top form; her being unexpectedly adept at comedy and even more unexpectedly they actually have great chemistry when the romance begins to seep into the story. This isn’t really a surprise though, since he is one of the best comedy actors around and she could pretty much play any part imaginable. The supporting cast are also great; Michael Caine as usual never disappointing and Shirley MacLaine hands-down the best possible choice for Endora. Don’t let the critics put you off seeing this film. There are some real laugh-out-loud moments, and it’s nice to see clips from the original show that Isabel watches for research. Kudos to Nora Ephron for stepping outside the box and making this adaptation more imaginative then a straight remake. The result is a really good feel-good film; light-hearted and sweet with a great cast, script and direction.

Elle Downville