Over a decade after the cult fantasy-action flick Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters carved out its niche in 2013, the brother-sister duo returns in a darker, bloodier, and surprisingly emotional sequel: Hansel & Gretel: Blood Moon Rising. Directed by Johannes Roberts and starring returning leads Jeremy Renner and Gemma Arterton, this follow-up expands the original's monster-hunting lore while maturing its characters and tone.
Set fifteen years after the original events, Hansel and Gretel are worn, haunted, and drifting apart. Witch hunting has taken a toll — not just physically, but spiritually. But when a new coven emerges under the prophesied Blood Moon, using forbidden blood magic to raise the ancient witch queen known as “The Mother of All,” the siblings must reunite for one final hunt — one that could consume them both.
The film balances brutal action with emotional introspection. Hansel, now partially possessed by a spell gone wrong, struggles with losing control, while Gretel, burdened with a growing affinity for magic, questions whether the line between hunter and witch is as clear as they once believed.
Visually, Blood Moon Rising leans into gothic horror — thick fog, cursed forests, underground ruins, and nightmarish transformations are delivered with style. The witches themselves are more varied and terrifying than ever before, from shadow-walkers to bone-charmers, brought to life with impressive practical effects and minimal CGI overkill.
The action is tighter and more creatively choreographed than its predecessor, blending gunplay, spell-casting, and medieval weapons in thrilling set pieces. But what truly elevates this sequel is its willingness to let its characters change. The film doesn't shy away from the psychological trauma of witch hunting, nor the moral ambiguity of a world where power corrupts both sides.
Gemma Arterton gives a standout performance as Gretel, now a conflicted leader and protector. Her arc — embracing magic to defeat magic — adds complexity to a film that might otherwise have been simple fantasy fare. Jeremy Renner, though more subdued, grounds Hansel with quiet sorrow and grit.
While the plot remains pulpy and leans on a few fantasy clichés, Blood Moon Rising feels like a proper evolution of the original’s world — grimmer, richer, and more meaningful.
