Classics of Pagan Cinema: Bell, Book, and Candle

“The 50’s, for all their historical patina, were an age of post-war innovation: the mixer, the slow cooker, the top load dishwasher,” writes Lauren Parker in her review of this favorite of Witch cinema. “And for more than just these appliances: the invention of the nuclear family and its purity.”

Schoolyard Divinations

“Like a lot of folk love divination, I don’t know where this came from,” writes Lauren Parker. “It’s nonsense, it’s silly, it’s probably not even accurate. And also every time I’m handed a straw I dutifully tie a knot to see if someone somewhere is thinking of me fondly.” 

Zoltar Speaks!

When the QVC hellhole that is Tiktok catches me with a mini Zoltar (“He Speaks!”) available for purchase, I add it to my cart. After I check out, Tiktok informs me they have cut the price, trying to sell me another one. Everything is a huckster in this story.