Sanctuary: A Witch's Tale (2024– ) User Reviews

Keep Watching

[ellyse-94962 · 7/10 · 3 February 2024]

The first episode is not all that entertaining but keep watching. The remaining episodes build a quite engaging story. It is adult and deals with issues of teenage assault, rape, and even the use of social media. Larger issues of suspicion, hysteria and rampant hatred of a particular group are actually displayed quite well with the extra spice of witchcraft. So hang on the entire season is quite engaging.

Some of the acting is uneven however, some characters and portrayals are quite excellent.

I would add the caveat that if you don't enjoy stories of witchcraft and supernatural, then this probably isn't for you. There are deeper and wider themes here, though that really are about prejudice and fear mongering.

Solid murder-mystery setup with a magical spin

[Valentijn78 · 7/10 · 11 January 2024]

While there is a central fantasy element with the presence of witches and magic, those simply add complexity to the efforts of residents of a small town to solve a murder (or prove that it wasn't one), rather than being an end unto themselves.

The magical hand movements seem to have come straight out of The Magicians, but work in this series as well. Nothing about the fantasy element is particularly innovative, except perhaps combining it with a crime genre and setting it in a community where witches can live openly among their non-witch neighbors.

The acting is good and the script gets the job done without being unduly annoying. The teenage drama is fortunately kept to a minimum, and focused only on the central plot points thus far. Some misogynists may be upset about the plethora of strong female leads, but there's more than enough relevant guys in the story to satisfy a reverse-Bechdel test.

It's an easy and enjoyable watch.

Stop ruining this site

[jaredp-64850 · 7/10 · 26 January 2024]

I think the intrigue is there - it's not Broadchurch by any means but it's an okay crime show. All in all, this is a solid six or seven, in my opinion, as in it would get a passing grade for decent British crime/mystery TV with or without witchcraft. It treats witchcraft as mundane and commonplace, which is interesting in itself. The characters are pretty interesting, and there is enough world-building. It doesn't need all the special effects to be a decent show, and it doesn't need to be groundbreaking. Exaggerated 1 and 2/10 star reviews do this site a disservice and make it unusable over time.

A Witch's Tale in a supposed haven... Meh

[chandramohankannan · 5/10 · 19 January 2024]

Welcome to the enchanting and magical hamlet known as Sanctuary, a place supposedly dedicated to providing solace and haven for witches against persecution. Basking in the town's benevolence is the presence of a lone witch family, as the beacon of all magical prowess. Not just any ordinary witch family, mind you; the illustrious Fenn family is one where the manifestation of witch power appears to have escaped both the character's mother and daughter. Yes, you heard it right - leaving the protagonist, Sarah Fenn, as the sorcerous elite, and the official representative of witchforce and witchdom in a town, that has a grand total of one officially registered witch. Bravo, Sarah!

Of course, the makers decided to christen both the town and the series with the grandiose title "Sanctuary", because nothing says magical refuge like a place with just one witch, right? But wait, there's more! In this modern benevolent utopia, anyone can casually point fingers at anyone else, accusing them of witchcraft. It's like a community potluck, but instead of bringing casseroles, you bring accusations of spellcasting. How quaint!

And then there is the real star of the show - Abigail Whithall, the grieving mother, the narcissistic friend, the cheating wife, the blackmailing neighbour, what-have-you. Her performance is so stellar that it makes you want to enroll in an anger management class to cope with the desire to repeatedly punch her in the face. Ah, the wonders of brilliant acting - or as I like to call it, facial-punch-worthy theatrics.

Cheers to the magical-bewitching world of Sanctuary!

Waaay underrated!!

[notaryswan · 10/10 · 23 January 2024]

This is a very worthwhile surprise bit of episodic adventure. The first episode left me skeptical, but after the second I was hooked. After episode four I was obsessed and left begging to see the rest. Unfortunately at this moment I have yet to see five, but at the moment I am chomping at the bits waiting for the golden moment to arrive. Put this on the must watch list for all you who like suspense and a well crafted evolutionary plot. It is supercalafragilisticexpialidotious. Have fun with it and enjoy. The critics are full of it. This series is a cool ten plus. Hootie Hoo!! Let's go! Yay! More !

Sanctuary For Who?

[wildernessbarbie · 6/10 · 1 February 2024]

So supposedly this entire town is a dedicated sanctuary for witches, has been for generations, and only... one witch lives there? Huh?

In this alternate reality witchcraft is an accepted fact, yet it's not clear how exactly this town is any kind of "sanctuary" when there's plenty of witches living outside it who seem to be doing just fine, better than the one inside it actually. Plus, theres a disturbing number of townsfolk ready to start up the bonfires and dig out their dunking stools the first time someone whispers that witchcraft is to blame for any sort of tragedy.

I'm guessing that there's some kind of "bad" witchcraft at play making everyone behave this way, otherwise just about the entire town deserves whatever horrors come their way.

Sarah, the main witch, has no real moral backbone. She performs various spells to "help" friends, but lacking consent and with questionable outcomes. Some real "Harry Potter" love spell vibes here that we're supposed to be OK with. She keeps engaging in behaviors that are foolish at best, and life threatening at worst.

Her primary nemesis is delightfully evil in regard to their machinations and how they manipulate people. Best character on the show.

One episode left, that will determine how worthwhile the series is overall. Just slightly better than average so far.

A witch's tale. Meh.

[AfricanBro · 2/10 · 6 January 2024]

Generic witch fantasy tv show but I'm a sucker for them. Concepts not bad, not super original though. It also has this lifetime movie vibe to it. I was hoping something close to 'discovery of witches' caliber.

It feels really low budget, like most fantasy series around witches, werewolves, vampires and such, but other shows try to look better in the visual aspects to trick you into believing they aren't. The special effects and all here don't look great. And the narrative, it's just jumpy and erratic. It seems like the base of the show will be a murder investigation.

The show is based on a town serving as a sanctuary for witchcraft, but it doesn't delve deeply into magical elements. Despite discussions about it, the portrayal is underwhelming, focusing more on mundane practices like making sedative tea. The magic depicted, such as candles going off or a slight steam from a cup after chants, lacks captivating intensity. It feels akin to observing witches at an astrology or tarot reader's level rather than showcasing enchanting mystical experiences. There's just a lot of hand movements.

It's very lifetime movie vibes, but some people watch those movies so I guess some people will enjoy this. Just go watch discovery of witches, or rewatch the originals, Salem, legacies, penny dreadful or something. Usually if a fantasy show's not well made I'm okay with it because they don't usually get the largest of budgets, but this is just boring as well. I probably won't watch past the two episodes out, I can't see it redeeming itself.

WATCH IT

[tuxakvinikadze · 10/10 · 1 February 2024]

The first episode may not have lived up to its hype, but it ended up being a good introduction for the development that followed. The story is very interesting and engrossing, the cherry on top is that there is magic in it. It is shown in detail how the gourd ripens and grows, and how people are sacrificed to it.

Discovering crime stories within the magical realm was an unexpected delight. The narrative, entwined with the themes of witch hunts and discrimination, serves as a poignant allegory for numerous real-world events. This isn't merely another run-of-the-mill fantasy; it stands out as a remarkably well-crafted show

I would rate it as 8, but since it has an extremely low rating, now I giving it a 10.

I cant wait until the last episode airs - and Well, what is the better indicator for good show?

Only one episode in.

[netdcon · 7/10 · 4 January 2024]

It's not awful; a bit heavy on the "Harper Valley" small-town drama and teen angst (..especially for what looks to be a British-produced series), but it's still developing characters and story. It doesn't kick straight in like a "Penny Dreadful" but it held my interest.

For only one episode the acting is very passable, writing as well, and I like that they don't give up the whole season in the first ep. Post-episode previews are flashy, but this first one is subtle on the special and practical effects so not a whole lot of "eye-candy" on the way in. It may be that they're going out of the way a bit in terms of suspending disbelief, but it's still a fun watch so far.

Everyone in this town is stupid

[etanonis-49888 · 4/10 · 3 February 2024]

There is a lot about this that makes for an interesting concept but every character just makes the absolute worst or dumbest possible choice at every turn. It just kept making me frustrated as I was watching and I wish it had done more to live up to the initial premise. The magic also looks really low budget and unrealistic and makes it feel even more cheesy than it should for the actual plot line (rape, murder, prejudice, infidelity, etc.). The acting isn't bad except the script feels kind of dated so some lines come across as really lame sounding. I'm going to finish it because I'm curious to see if it sticks the landing but tbh I think this is a missed opportunity.

Superb drama with witchcraft

[chosetrans · 9/10 · 1 February 2024]

One of those pieces, where first episodes are bland and won't catch, but if you make it past that, you will be hooked and suddenly wait for more. I saw six episodes so far and I still don't know, how it will end, which is impressive, as on most of current series, I know mostly after two episodes all basic story lines. IT IS UNPREDICTABLE and annoying, and I love it.

I really don't understand why are people making those 1 or 2 rating reviews after seeing one episode (mostly not whole) and writing total nonsense. Watch it first and then come back again. You won't be disappointed. But if you are only about special effects and glorious, but bland story lines, then pass. Its not for you.

Somewhere between Discovery and Mayfair

[HorrorFilmHellion · 7/10 · 12 February 2024]

If you make it past the first episode, which was kind of a clumsy setup, this does actually get pretty engaging with multiple elements. The major plot is the murder mystery, and it's laced with social injustice stuff surrounding bullying/rape/evil patriarchy/outcasting. Some of the characters become over the top to the point of absurdity towards the end, but all in all this was still an engaging watch. It felt rushed into it's conclusion and felt a little anticlimactic to me, but I'm guessing they wanted to end it as a miniseries, which is fine. Ultimately, I found this trails behind the more superb (until s3) A discovey of Witches, but a better watch (lead acting capability mostly) than Mayfair witch.

Terrible

[tonyandsilvia1994 · 2/10 · 3 February 2024]

Sanctuary: A Witch's Tale falls short in several key aspects, leaving much to be desired. The acting is cringe-worthy, with performances that often border on amateurish, failing to convey the depth required for a magical fantasy. The poor writing exacerbates the problem, delivering a lackluster narrative that struggles to engage players. Characters utter lines that feel forced and devoid of authenticity, detracting from the overall immersive experience.

Moreover, the insistence on ridiculous accents (the Irish cast all speak like the British Royal Family) adds an additional layer of annoyance, further disconnecting viewers from the world. In the realm of magical tales.

Midsomer Murders, Father Brown and the ilk know who their target audience is. This show takes itself much too seriously.

Watchable? Maybe but...

[jennysg · 4/10 · 8 February 2024]

It is ok. Actually barely ok. There are moments where the behavior of people and most events don't make any sense and you will laugh out loud and maybe shout at the screen.

It is not a police procedural drama, it's more like a lightweight soap opera with a semi-good witch who everyone blames, for a murder of a not-good-at-all guy who everyone adores, and a stupid, oh so stupid police department.

The actors try to act according to this preposterous script. I am all for magic, spells and drama but this is not it. It is borderline a satire. If you go in expecting Broadchurch you will be disappointed.

It is the kind of series you can have in the background while you are doing something else or when nothing, and I mean NOTHING else is on. I watched the whole thing while working on a home project because I was curious on how stupid they would choose to do the finale.

Keep your expectations very low and you will be alright.

How to keep friends and earn respect

[Lisa-21376 · 10/10 · 6 February 2024]

This series is more about how to refrain from giving what one can. Just as a billionaire doesn't give his or her money to anyone needing money. In the idyllic world, what a wonderful service, if one can go to someone and receive whatever one wishes for. Sanctuary is shown as picture perfect with beautiful people and families living in an abundance. What if something is so terrible to a person who is narcissistic and can't get their way? That person will blame the easiest person to blame. Although, Sarah is a people pleaser and loves to give to her friends and clientele what they want. Sarah bends the magic rules and sometimes will change outcomes for the Sanctuary community. Sarah wants to please so much, she bends rules too much and pays the price. In our own society, without magic, it is important to allow people to figure out their own path, be a friend, but allow friends to work towards their path in life. This series shows what happens should someone intervene with what one side desires. The law of nature and life becomes off balance. Sarah had the only loving and good intentions to her community but should she have the power to steer anyone's child, partner, or even oneself?

Tough to watch, muddled and erratic. One and done.

[Xavier_Stone · 2/10 · 5 January 2024]

Right off the bat we are thrown into an outdoor get together with multiple people and something happens. Frustratingly we aren't told what it is and aren't shown any details. Then the obligatory, 6 years later text and we are now in the day to day life of a woman who we can now tell is the main character.

I understand that producers and writers have get some sort of hook or setup to pique the viewers interest a bit, but this seems to be all over the place. Mostly chit chat for the entire episode with several pointless scenes spent just introducing characters and relationships and not serving any other purpose.

Then the episode event happens and the viewer is again put in the dark as everything happens off screen and we are left with the mystery.

All in all a really poor way to start a series, show nothing and explain the bare minimum. Nearly all the characters are women, 90% of the dialogue is from women and it gets painful to watch.

2/10 for some magic and stuff that pulled me in, but nothing else of substance. Low budget, and maybe that's why every event is handled off camera.

Excellent Show! I can't wait to watch the next season.

[fitnesstraveller · 10/10 · 6 February 2024]

I have just finished watching the series Sanctuary. A Witch's Tale! What a splendid show it is, and I eagerly anticipate the arrival of the 2nd season . This series is replete with mesmerizing plot twists and turns, and characters are truly remarkable in their ability to evoke genuine emotions through their impeccable acting. What a great addition to the amazon channel. This would be a cool destination if I can find out where the filming locations are located. I certainly would love to visit this town, and take pictures. I have this news hobby where I visit film locations. I'm sure it would be great tourism spots!

Deceiving

[ZaphodBeeblebrock · 2/10 · 28 January 2024]

I started watching Sanctuary - A witch Tale in a great mood, I was expecting a crime story with fantasy features. Clearly , by its plot and trailer this is what you catch. In fact, what we have here is just some average TV cheap crime - the kind of "yeah we've seen this before"- and really poor fantasy. No efforts in visual effects, maybe obvious for a small production but sometimes cheap visuals could be better than no visuals. I disliked some casting choices, as usual kids a bit too old. There are, on the other side, some really good actors, but that's not enough for a TV show to spend your time on.

By any means this.

Very intriguing

[inkid-88306 · 8/10 · 3 February 2024]

I just caught up in this show and I must say it is very well written and acted. The storyline is just the right amount of perfect but not to much fantasy to kill the show. I agree with another person on here that said it doesn't need a lot of effects. It's just the right amount of perfect in its on. In my opinion it touches on numerous topics that still plague today's society now. This show went from 0 to 100 real quick and to think the women were all like blood sisters and then BOOM betrayal. Hysteria on the show gave us a glimpse at how it was for the women in the Salem trials. Those women in the Salem trials never stood a chance back then. This show did a great job acting out those parts and showing us how it was during the witch trials.

Is it a 7 or Is it a 3?

[jmbovan-47-160173 · 5/10 · 11 February 2024]

Sanctuary depicts an alternate reality where witchcraft is real, and is marginally accepted by society albeit with heavy legal regulations.

This series has several positives. Production depicts a village well, and frames the storyline for that feeling of closeness. Acting is solid across the cast. Direction holds the tension well, leading me to watch as many episodes in a row that I could. (I started watching after 3 episodes were already available.)

The series has some negatives that do deter from the viewing experience. After the first couple episodes, the series falls into stereotypes of prejudice, propoganda, and fear. The characters become shells of people propelled only by the motivations that matter for the plotting. The second half showcases how bigotry and selfishness fuel hatred. And here comes the drudgery that inches the last 3 episodes to the finish.

What started as an interesting perspective on outsiders turned into a cliched depiction of all the tropes of said outsider parables that the original trilogy of the X-Men films did lamely but adequately. This series just starts beating us over the head with differences and hatred are "bad."

An unnecessary story...

[no_vampires_here · 3/10 · 16 February 2024]

They had it all, a nice setup, a small town, some drama and witches. It could have been a fresh and wonderful story thanks to the entire cast too but no, they had to ruin everything.

Basically, you could watch episode 1, 2 and 7 and you'll not be losing anything. If you ask what's in between, well the hate grows more and more, that's all. They just hate the witches until you start to ask "but what is the point, we get it, witch bad - burn the witch, ... and??".

I have no idea what happened, did nobody read the entire season's story? And the huge plot hole? The story makes you think there must be a hidden witch acting from the shadows, you expect someone to be revealed and they just skip it lmao. And the end was so rushed and dry...

Please don't make season 2, just let this go away, it was really bad.

Well balanced

[gars-80463 · 10/10 · 2 February 2024]

A very good show set in a contemporary world where magic coexists with modern way of life and where ordinary people ask for witches help that holds witchcraft business offices. However this equilibrium is fragile and the witches power brings suspucion and jealousy. The series tells the rapture of this fragile equilibrium after a college boy's death. Accident or witchcraft doing? Everybody in town has to take side.

The writing is efficient, the plot captivating our attention between murder investigation and supernatural events, between white and black magic. The result, a very original series that is not only based on the manifestation of magical powers but on the confrontation between magic and law.

The transition is killing me

[chunpok · 4/10 · 9 February 2024]

First of all, the fade-out/ fade-in transition is so amateur. It instantly drew me out of it. Like when the camera focused on Sarah's angry face, it faded out too soon. The mood set, causal or tense, is completely gone.

Drama with magic, witches. An absolute yes! But this one had murder-mystery main, with just little magic in it. Not enough. I need mooooreee.

All other characters with magic were too similar to each other. Morgan Lynch showed magic was used in the warehouse. Robert Alton discovered Sarah had been using forbidden magic. And Shula Maloney recognized the old sign of destruction. Do you really need 3 characters to tell these?

And the muggles were so fickle. Like Beatrice despising her mother in the past few episodes, but in finale suddenly was quite neutral towards Julia, even comforted her while leaving the execution. What changed?? Also when Bridget said "I take over from here" to Cheryl after all those arguments shown, I genuinely thought Bri would just get rid of her. But then, they were such a loving family again in the execution. What kind of besties are these two, Julia and Bridget? Sarah was right to leave the town without saying goodbye to these people.

The ending was a bit rush. Abi's and Michael's death were fine. But Ted? I thought Remy would come and arrest him after DCI Knight showed Remy what was happening. But like the other plots in this show, it just disappeared.

Surprisingly GOOD!

[nckywilcat-02669 · 10/10 · 26 January 2024]

Although this series was not at all as I had anticipated, I was totally into watching. The suspense of what was going to happen next kept me viewing from start to finish. Now I am ANXIOUS to see what happens next!! It pulled me in and I don't want to be left hanging! Great acting and storyline....cant wait for MORE!!

Although the fantasy of it all seemed far fetched from society of today, it is, of course, a suspenseful drama. The storyline has kept me thinking of "who did it" and I have changed my mind at least 4 times! So as I watched the last episode, #5, was hoping for more clarity, but the artistic writing has kept me pulled into the drama. Most times I have already figured it out.

Ye old witch

[yahaira-729-694701 · 5/10 · 5 February 2024]

I thought this was going good as a murder mystery but then it became a typical mideval witch hunt. Teenagers are notorious for being rebels and uncooperative. Who done it becomes the old witch trials. AMC gave it away in the preview which ruined it for me. Jake becomes the accusatory judge claims Harper killed Dan. The search for the killer becomes a mob lynching etc. Abbie overactive acting is a downer hysterical woman and deranged men. Some of the witch craft initiations are fantasy. A town that is open to a witch practicing her craft is fantasy. Perhaps dci knight will bring logical justice and not superstition to rule.