“Beyond The Pointy Hat” Goes Beyond Witch Stereotypes

Beyond The Pointy Hat by Shannon Meilak Goes Beyond Witch Stereotypes

I was initially drawn to Beyond The Pointy Hat, directed by Shannon Meilak, for many of the same misconceptions she explains motivated her to create the film. Witches are a highly stereotyped group, bringing to mind images of Halloween and broomsticks. This was something that intrigued me. However, as Meilak demonstrates through the six-minute final product, Pagans are frequently misrepresented and highly stereotyped in mainstream media.

To dispel such misleading notions, Beyond The Pointy Hat details what occurs when a group of civilian non-pagans are invited to participate in a coven ritual. The participants all leave with a nuanced understanding of witches and their practices, and are able to see how witchcraft relates to their own lives. Just like the participants, I left the documentary viewing with a new perspective and an opened mind.

To me, this is indicative of the power of documentary film. Audiences are able to be exposed to communities they may hold prejudiced beliefs against, and can be more receptive to learning about such groups. And, it works the other way, as well. As Meilak notes, “I think it is imperative that Pagans understand that they can be their own worst enemy, assuming that people are unwilling to accept them and that their continued secrecy, no matter the underlying reason, could be why so many are yet to learn what witchcraft really is.” If people are able to be vulnerable and share their stories with the world, there is huge potential for shifts in beliefs and greater world empathy.

By Corinne, 2020 American INSIGHT Intern, Scripps College 2021

Photo courtesy of Shannon Meilak

1 Comment
  • Rebecca Bates
    Posted at 09:38h, 19 July Reply

    I have been exposed to witch craft sence I was young. My mom grand mother’s my dad . What some people don’t understand is .some potions spells and other things are not of the devil. Some of us believe thare is a God. And some of the witch craft would and could be used to help people. Now I have been an herbelest / what some people conciter a witch or juist a strange person for years.The funny thing about it all is were everywhere and so called normal people don’t realize that we could help them but thare scared.but who do thay come to to fix things when thay are sick want ing to know the future one of us.

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