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The antagonist, a centuries-old witch, is portrayed with a starkly evil persona—completely misunderstood in her malevolence. Her appearance, often layered in makeup with lipstick covering half her face, emphasizes her alien and otherworldly nature. An early scene in a school office clarifies her age and ancient origins, with dialogue referencing historical ailments and anachronistic dress sense, suggesting she’s been around for centuries.
The practical effects, including the unsettling scene where the witch walks with a strange gait to cut a lock of hair, contribute heavily to the film’s disturbing atmosphere. The imagery doesn’t rely on gore but instead on the unsettling presentation of her unnatural movements and presence.