Written and directed by Jasia Ka, an angsty coven of witches in Bushwick seek alternative sources of income, after a sudden rise in competition. Starring: Nell Amari, Meghan Wallace, Bailey Macejak, Carla Jerez, Erica Sarda, Anisa Benitez, Shannon Hayes and Stephanie Halovanic.
Jumping into Bushwitches it’s as if you’ve entered a world that’s a blend of reality TV and SNL. Jasia Ka creates a superb balance of satire and self-awareness, embracing the ridiculous without ever letting it take over. Ka’s writing fills every inch of the short with big personalities, these are not women who are going to blend into the background. It’s highly dramatic in a satisfying fashion, having all that usual drama swathed in the supernatural makes it a lot of fun and gives it a fresh edge.
That tone is then matched beat for beat by Jasia Ka’s direction, it has that lively, modern feel. It effortlessly takes in the energy of its characters, injecting a good dose of youth and femininity. The supernatural element has a big part to play but Ka keeps the atmosphere relatable. Translating your typical everyday issues without losing them entirely. The direction is then supported by some strong editing work and excellent music choices which both serve to boost that energy even more.
All of that is then perfectly complimented by the bewitching ensemble, capturing that feel of the new generation of young women. They have that motivated, determined energy mixed with the classic feel of a sorority, with its hierarchy and infighting. Each of them have different personalities but at the same time they do feel like a collective, doing well to portray that coven atmosphere.
Bushwitches takes aim at reality TV with all its drama, gossip and pettiness, twisting it into a supernatural themed satire that’s full of youth and big energy. It has a hugely modern feel, a nice penchant for melodrama, great pacing and strong choices of music. You can easily see the potential to keep following the misadventures of these lively, vengeful and entrepreneurial witches.
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