Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters

Writer/Director Tommy Wirkola’s Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters is Django with witches instead of rednecks.

 I, for one, enjoy the recreation of fairy tales and Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters does an admirable job at that.  But, make no mistake…you will be watching a fairy tale with fire power that belies the era in which viewers are immersed.  However, if you are okay with letting go of logic, you’ll enjoy it.

 

And, what this film has that Django didn’t is Gemma Arterton (Quantum of Solace), plus a Finish newcomer Pihla Viitala as a bonus: both extremely watchable. 

Adding to the fun, Famke Janssen makes a great, evil witch; Jeremy Renner, a fine Hansel; and Peter Stormare, an enjoyably stupid sheriff.

 

 

Some of the production design is cheesy, but forgivable, if you are in that “letting go” mood: ditto for the script, as well.  Given that Will Ferrell is one of the Producers, it all makes sense.  Here, the cheesiness is fun.

I give Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters a 3+ out of 5.