Four aspiring teenage witches realise that their newfound powers may have a more sinister impact than they initially realised. Written and directed by Zoe Lister-Jones and starring Cailee Spaeny, Gideom Adlon, Lovie Simone and Zoey Luna as The Craft, Legacy avoids the pitfalls of most decades-on rebirths by paying homage to the original without simply remaking it.
Perhaps it was the underwhelming trailer, lacklustre marketing or the bitter taste left by the rather abysmal Black Christmas reboot last year that set expectations rock bottom, but it only makes the general success of The Craft: Legacy that much more surprising and appreciative. Where most retoolings can be weighed down by cash-grabbing cynicism, Legacy proves that there is a space for the IP in the 21st century, honouring the original while still only using it as a jumping-off point to offer it own interpretation.
Penning the screenplay, Lister-Jones efforts are strong, striving for a diverse and inclusive story that feels socially conscious but seldom to the point of unbearable wokeness. Exploring the strength of sisterhood, danger of masculinity and the handling of power, it is a potent amalgamation of zeitgeist-hitting themes but rarely feels overly prescriptive; while it isn't particularly subtle in its explorations, there's enough narrative substance for it to enrich the story rather than completely dominate. The further inclusion of coming-of-age elements and comedy helps with character development and leads to some surprisingly touching moments, alongside sharp dialogue which keeps the pacing streamlined nicely.
Likewise, Lister-Jones' direction injects some edge into her interpretation, well-staged and soundtracked with a the techno-influenced score that adds plenty of personality. If it's scary you're after, Legacy doesn't land any particularly memorable horror sequences but maintains a suspenseful atmosphere that suitably uneases. While the more melodramatic third act feels somewhat rushed, its climax surprisingly low-key, it works in solidifying its themes and teasing a sequel that you would happily sit down and watch in a couple of years time.
With an array of spirited performances, the cast is a significant part of Legacy's success. Spaeny leads well from the front, developing strong chemistry with both the other witches and her on-screen mother, portrayed by Michelle Monaghan, and carries most of the emotional weight. Simone, Luna and Adlon all operate well as a unit, with a strong dynamic that allows the theme of sisterhood to flourish, ensuring the film remains fun amongst its darker material. Nicholas Galitzine is also worth mentioning, shining as his character arc progresses.
On the whole, The Craft: Legacy is a real surprise. If studios must insist on tapping into previously established properties, they could do a lot worse than Zoe Lister-Jones' The Craft: Legacy, a picture which shows great affection for the original while never once feeling shackled to it. Content in forging its own witchy path, Legacy finds its place in 2020 with its intersectional cast and topical subject matter propelling a perfectly solid and enjoyable October watch forward.
Summary: With a fresh lick of contemporary paint, The Craft: Legacy revives a cult favourite with an enjoyable, topical and well-staged sequel which avoids the cynicism of similar reboots.