The film follows Sarah Bailey (played by Robin Tunney), a troubled teenager who moves to Los Angeles with her father and stepmother after her mother’s death. At her new Catholic high school, Sarah befriends three outcast girls: Nancy Downs (played by Fairuza Balk), Bonnie Harper (played by Neve Campbell), and Rochelle Zimmerman (played by Rachel True). Together, they form a coven and practice witchcraft to empower themselves and seek revenge on those who have wronged them.
As the girls delve deeper into witchcraft, they discover that they have innate magical abilities and can manipulate the world around them. They use their powers to improve their lives, but their newfound abilities also come with consequences. Sarah becomes increasingly uneasy with their actions, fearing the dark side of magic and the harm it could cause.
In the climax of the film, Nancy becomes consumed by her lust for power and seeks to invoke the spirit of Manon, a powerful deity worshiped by witches. She becomes increasingly unstable and dangerous, putting herself and her friends at risk. Sarah realizes that she must confront Nancy and stop her from causing further harm.
A dramatic showdown ensues between Sarah and Nancy, culminating in a battle of wills and magic. With the help of her friends and her own inner strength, Sarah overpowers Nancy and banishes the dark forces that have consumed her. In the end, Nancy is institutionalized, and Sarah embraces her own magical abilities, using them for good rather than selfish gain.
“The Craft” is praised for its dark and atmospheric tone, compelling performances, and exploration of themes such as friendship, power, and the consequences of unchecked ambition. The film has become a cult classic among fans of horror and supernatural cinema, enduring as a timeless tale of teenage rebellion and the allure of the occult.