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Plot summary & ending explained

The Craft: Legacy (2020) Plot Summary, Ending Explained & Timeline

The Craft: Legacy (2020) movie poster

The Craft: Legacy is a 2020 drama and fantasy film, running 1 hour 37 minutes. This page retells the whole story in 645 words (about 3 minutes to read) and covers 15 key events in order, 5 characters, where and when it is set, 3 themes and the ending explained. Looking for the cast, ratings and where to stream it? See the movie page for The Craft: Legacy.

to read the plot summary
3 min
key events in the timeline
15
characters profiled
5
themes explained
3
The Craft: Legacy (2020) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 37m
Genres
Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Original language
English
No spoilers

What Is The Craft: Legacy About?

The premise of The Craft: Legacy in 301 words, with nothing given away. The full story and the ending follow below.

In a sleepy suburb where the ordinary clashes with the uncanny, a handful of outcast teenage girls stumble upon a shared fascination that binds them tighter than any school‑yard clique. Lily arrives in town carrying the weight of a new family and the sting of isolation, while Frankie, Tabby and Lourdes have already begun whispering about ancient rites in the shadows of lockers and empty classrooms. Their tentative friendship is rooted in the promise of belonging, a promise that feels almost magical in a world that has long ignored their restless spirits.

The film settles into a tone that blends the uneasy quiet of a typical high‑school drama with the pulsing undercurrent of something far older and more potent. The girls’ first experiments with witchcraft feel both clumsy and exhilarating, a mixture of teenage curiosity and the raw power of rituals handed down through generations. The atmosphere is tinged with a modern gothic aesthetic—dimly lit basements, flickering candles, and the subtle hum of unseen forces that seem to respond to their growing confidence.

As they delve deeper, their spell‑casting becomes a secret language through which they channel frustration, longing, and a desire for retribution against the everyday cruelties they endure. The narrative hints that their newfound abilities are not without consequence; each successful incantation pushes the boundaries of what they can control, and the air grows thicker with a sense of something waiting just beyond the veil. The more they harness, the more the world around them trembles, suggesting that the line between empowerment and danger is dangerously thin.

Through its moody visuals and tight‑knit character dynamics, the story invites viewers to wonder how far these adolescents will go to claim agency in a world that repeatedly overlooks them, and what unseen forces might awaken when youthful ambition meets ancient magic.

Full plot

What Happens in The Craft: Legacy?

The complete story of The Craft: Legacy, from the first scene to the last, in 645 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 10 cast member pages.

Spoilers ahead

In the intriguing beginning, three teenage girls—Frankie, Tabby, and Lourdes—attempt to manipulate time through magic, but their efforts are in vain as they need a fourth member to complete their spell. Enter Lily Schechner, who moves to town with her therapist mother, Helen, to start a new life alongside Helen’s husband, Adam Harrison, and his three sons, Jacob, Isaiah, and Abe. While the boys act awkwardly around Lily, she grapples with feelings of isolation.

On her first day at a new high school, Lily’s luck begins to change. After an embarrassing incident related to her period, she finds unexpected friendship among the three girls. They generously offer her a pair of shorts when she becomes the target of ridicule, especially from Timmy Andrews. Their bond strengthens when Lily showcases her latent telekinetic powers, inadvertently pushing Timmy into lockers. As punishment, both she and Timmy find themselves in detention, but Lily manages to escape using her mind, leading her to meet the girls outside. Recognizing her potential, they invite her to join their coven, which Lily eagerly accepts. This marks the beginning of their adventures as they successfully freeze time during their first magical attempt.

As their friendship blossoms, the girls seek retribution against Timmy by casting a spell involving a personal item they discover in his home. Their incantation leads to a softened demeanor from Timmy, a testament to their newfound powers. The group delves deeper into their magical abilities, experiencing feats like levitation. However, when Adam learns about the incident and reprimands Lily, a conflict with Helen ensues, revealing tensions beneath the surface. In a moment of vulnerability, Abe shares his thoughts on their father’s strict beliefs.

Amidst this growing tension, Timmy’s overtures of friendship unfold at a party, where he unexpectedly admits his bisexuality, having been intimate with Jacob’s brother, Isaiah. In a whirlwind of emotions, Lily, under a spell’s influence, shares a romantic kiss with Timmy. Yet, everything takes a dark turn the following day when their teacher informs the coven that Timmy has allegedly taken his own life. Confronted by this tragedy, Lily confesses her love spell to her friends, prompting them to distance themselves from her and relinquish their magical practices.

Feeling uncertain about Adam, Lily urges her mother to relocate, but Helen maintains her stance. In a determined effort to uncover the truth, Lily explores Adam’s office, where she stumbles upon her adoption papers and learns a shocking fact: she is the child of Helen’s former patient. The burden of this revelation weighs heavily on her during Timmy’s funeral, which serves as a catalyst for Helen to finally agree to move.

In a shocking twist, it is revealed that she is aware of Lily’s magical gifts and wishes to take them for herself. When Lily grows suspicious, Adam, now revealed to be a deceptive figure, threatens her life, seeking to inherit her Wicca powers due to his affiliation with a sinister pagan cult. During a chilling confrontation in the woods, he confesses to the murder of Timmy and demands Lily’s powers under threat of death.

However, a connection with her friends is not severed; through a Ouija board, Timmy reaches out, urging the girls to save her. They rally, freeze time, and attempt to overpower Adam, but he quickly turns the tables. In a climactic showdown, the girls band together, wielding their elemental magic to defeat Adam, ultimately leading to his fiery demise.

In the aftermath, Lily reestablishes her bonds with the girls, deciding to bind their powers with the hope of mastering them. The story concludes as Helen escorts Lily to a nearby clinic, paving the way for an emotional reunion with her biological mother—revealed to be none other than Nancy Downs, a character of intrigue and legacy. Lily’s journey unfolds a tapestry of friendship, magic, and a search for identity, leaving viewers captivated and yearning for more.

Timeline

The Craft: Legacy Timeline: Every Key Event in Order

15 key events in the order they happen, from “The Search for a Fourth Member” to “The Climax and Victory”.

  1. 1

    The Search for a Fourth Member

    Three girls—Frankie, Tabby, and Lourdes—attempt to manipulate time through magic but realize their spell requires a fourth member. This realization marks the beginning of an adventure that will change their lives forever.

  2. 2

    Lily Moves to Town

    Lily Schechner arrives in a new town with her mother, Helen, seeking to start fresh. Alongside her mother's husband, Adam, and his three sons, she faces the challenges of fitting in as the new girl at school.

  3. 3

    The Embarrassing Incident

    On her first day at school, Lily experiences an embarrassing moment related to her period, feeling isolated and vulnerable. This incident attracts the attention of the three girls, who decide to help her instead of shunning her.

  4. 4

    A New Friendship Forms

    After receiving a pair of shorts from Frankie, Tabby, and Lourdes, Lily finds unexpected friendship with them. This bonding moment is crucial, especially as they rally against the ridicule from Timmy Andrews.

  5. 5

    Discovery of Powers

    During a confrontation with Timmy, Lily inadvertently demonstrates her telekinetic abilities, pushing him into lockers. This remarkable event not only showcases her potential but also fortifies her bond with her new friends.

  6. 6

    Joining the Coven

    Recognizing Lily's potential, the girls invite her to join their coven after she escapes detention using her powers. This moment marks the official beginning of their magical journey together.

  7. 7

    The First Magical Attempt

    As a coven, the girls make their first attempt at magic, successfully freezing time. This exhilarating experience solidifies their friendship and sets the stage for their future magical exploits.

  8. 8

    Seeking Revenge on Timmy

    The girls decide to cast a spell on Timmy, utilizing a personal item they found in his home. The spell softens Timmy's demeanor, showcasing the growth of their magical abilities and the complexities of teenage relationships.

  9. 9

    Confrontation with Helen

    Tensions rise when Adam confronts Lily about the spell, causing an argument between her and her mother, Helen. This confrontation hints at deeper issues in their family dynamic and foreshadows future conflicts.

  10. 10

    Timmy's Confession

    At a party, Timmy reveals his bisexuality, admitting to an intimate relationship with Isaiah. This moment of honesty creates a shift in Lily’s feelings towards him, complicated by their magical involvement.

Show the other 5 events of The Craft: Legacy
  1. 11

    Tragic News

    The day after their romantic encounter, Lily learns from her teacher that Timmy has allegedly taken his own life. This devastating news sends shockwaves through the group, leading to feelings of guilt and despair.

  2. 12

    Secrets Unveiled

    In a desperate search for truth, Lily uncovers her adoption papers while exploring Adam's office. She learns she is the child of Helen's former patient, a revelation that adds emotional weight to her already tumultuous life.

  3. 13

    The Dark Confrontation

    In a harrowing confrontation with Adam in the woods, he threatens Lily for her Wicca powers, revealing his ties to a sinister cult. The tension escalates as he confesses to Timmy's murder, putting Lily in grave danger.

    Where:The Woods

  4. 14

    Timmy's Spirit Calls for Help

    Through a Ouija board, Timmy communicates with the girls, urging them to save Lily from Adam. This connection showcases the depth of their friendship and the powerful influence of their combined magic.

  5. 15

    The Climax and Victory

    In a climactic battle, the girls use their elemental magic to confront Adam, ultimately defeating him in a fiery confrontation. This victory not only solidifies their friendship but also allows them to regain control over their powers.

Characters

Who Are the Main Characters in The Craft: Legacy?

5 characters, among them Frankie, Timmy Andrews and Lily Schechner: who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.

  • Gideon Adlon as Frankie in The Craft: Legacy

    Frankie

    Played by Gideon Adlon

    Frankie is one of the original trio of girls who introduces Lily to the world of magic. She is adventurous and rebellious, embodying the spirit of exploration that comes with discovering new powers. Her loyalty to her friends is evident as they navigate their ups and downs together.

    • 🧙‍♀️ Magic
    • 👭 Friendship
    • ✨ Adventure
  • Nicholas Galitzine as Timmy Andrews in The Craft: Legacy

    Timmy Andrews

    Played by Nicholas Galitzine

    Timmy is initially portrayed as a typical high school antagonist but gradually reveals a more complex character, showcasing vulnerability and ultimately facing a tragic end. His arc touches on themes of acceptance, identity, and the effects of isolation, making him a poignant figure in the story.

    • 🏫 High School
    • 🤔 Identity
    • 💔 Tragedy
  • Cailee Spaeny as Lily Schechner in The Craft: Legacy

    Lily Schechner

    Played by Cailee Spaeny

    Lily is a newcomer with a rich backstory, struggling with isolation and identity until she is welcomed into the coven. Her character embodies the journey of self-discovery, propelled by her emerging magical powers and complex family dynamics. Her quest for belonging makes her a relatable protagonist.

    • 🌟 Self-Discovery
    • 🙋‍♀️ Newcomer
    • 🧙‍♀️ Magic
  • Michelle Monaghan as Helen in The Craft: Legacy

    Helen

    Played by Michelle Monaghan

    Helen, Lily's mother, plays a pivotal role in her life, balancing her own challenges while supporting her daughter. She grapples with the implications of Lily's powers and her own past, which culminates in a poignant mother-daughter relationship. Her character development emphasizes the theme of understanding and acceptance.

    • 👩‍👧 Motherhood
    • 💞 Family
    • 🤔 Inner Conflict
  • David Duchovny as Adam Harrison in The Craft: Legacy

    Adam Harrison

    Played by David Duchovny

    Adam starts as a seemingly supportive figure in Lily's life, but his true nature unfolds as he reveals darker motivations linked to his past. His character serves as a foil to Lily, highlighting themes of betrayal and the dangers of unchecked ambition in pursuit of power.

    • 😈 Antagonist
    • 📉 Betrayal
    • 🔥 Conflict
Setting

Where and When Is The Craft: Legacy Set?

The Craft: Legacy is set in High School, Woods and Town (Contemporary). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.

When

Contemporary

The story is set in the contemporary era, reflecting current societal norms and issues faced by teenagers today. This modern backdrop allows for themes like friendship, identity, and the struggle for self-acceptance to resonate with younger audiences. It portrays the pressures of high school life alongside magical elements, making it relatable yet fantastical.

Where

High School, Woods, Town

The movie takes place in a suburban town where the characters navigate the trials of adolescence within a high school setting. The woods serve as a significant location for the climax, symbolizing both danger and the unknown. This community backdrop is integral in showcasing the friendships and conflicts that arise among the characters.

  • 🏫 School
  • 🌳 Nature
  • 🏙️ Community
Themes

What Are the Themes of The Craft: Legacy?

3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Magic, Loss and Friendship.

  1. 01

    Magic

    Magic plays a central role in the film, serving as both a tool for empowerment and a source of conflict. The girls' exploration of their magical abilities leads to significant growth in their friendships, but also reveals darker consequences. The theme of magic reflects the journey of self-discovery and the challenges of wielding power responsibly.

  2. 02

    Loss

    The theme of loss permeates the film, particularly through the tragic event surrounding Timmy's death. This event triggers a deep emotional response from the characters and highlights the fragility of life and relationships. It prompts introspection and ultimately leads to growth, as the characters come to terms with their experiences and learn the importance of connection.

  3. 03

    Friendship

    Friendship is a vital theme in the narrative as the bond between Lily and her new friends emphasizes support and acceptance. Their connection empowers them to embrace their magical side, reinforcing the idea that unity can help overcome adversity. The evolution of their relationship illustrates how friendship can become a source of strength in navigating life's challenges.

Ending explained

How Does The Craft: Legacy End?

The last act of The Craft: Legacy and what it means, in 286 words. The ending lands as bittersweet. Big spoilers: read the plot summary first if you have not seen it.

The final act, in full

In the final moments of The Craft: Legacy, we see Lily’s true origins come to light: she is the biological daughter of Nancy Downs, the infamous witch from the original Craft film. This revelation suggests that Lily’s incredible powers — which have continually grown stronger throughout the movie — are inherited, linking her directly to the dark, powerful side of magic that Nancy once embodied. The ending hints that Lily might follow the same dangerous path her mother took, especially now that she has met Nancy, who remains institutionalized but very much alive in her own way. The emotional climax shows Lily standing at a crossroads; she has the potential either to embrace her powerful heritage and darkness or to forge her own, balanced path. The film’s last scene also subtly introduces the possibility of a new chapter, with Nancy set to play a significant role in future stories, especially as Lily’s powers and origins are explored further.

The closing moments underscore the franchise’s core theme that magic is more than just spells — it reflects identity, choice, and the struggle between good and evil. The film suggests that Lily’s journey is just beginning, with her destined to walk a similar, tumultuous road as her mother. This sets the stage for The Craft 3, where Lily, now aware of her true background, might confront her nature and the dark forces looming in her future. The ending keeps the door open for further exploration of her power, her heritage, and the ongoing battle between light and darkness within her. It concludes with the idea that, like the original, the story is about the danger of losing oneself to the very magic that can also be a gift.

Tone & mood

What Kind of Film Is The Craft: Legacy?

Tense in tone, with steady pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.

Tone
Tense
Pacing
Steady
Story
Moderate
Intensity
High
Ending
Bittersweet

A tense and suspenseful supernatural thriller about teenage witches discovering their power, which builds from a story of outcast friendship into a high-stakes confrontation with dark forces and personal trauma.

  • anxious
  • empowering
  • melancholic
  • supernatural
  • tense
  • rebellious
  • coming of age
  • witchcraft
  • found family
  • teenage friendship

Content notes: suicide, death of a teenager.

Quiz

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Where to watch

Where to Watch The Craft: Legacy

Stream it on Sony Pictures Core and Tubi TV, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.

Streaming availability in the US, powered by JustWatch logo

Read next

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6 films close to The Craft: Legacy in story and themes that have a full plot summary here: The Craft (1996) and Teen Witch (1989) lead. 2 of them come with the ending explained.

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FAQ

The Craft: Legacy Plot Questions

5 quick answers about The Craft: Legacy, taken from the plot summary, ending explained, character guide and setting on this page.

What is The Craft: Legacy about?

In a sleepy suburb where the ordinary clashes with the uncanny, a handful of outcast teenage girls stumble upon a shared fascination that binds them tighter than any school‑yard clique.

Read the full plot summary

What happens at the end of The Craft: Legacy?

In the final moments of The Craft: Legacy, we see Lily's true origins come to light: she is the biological daughter of Nancy Downs, the infamous witch from the original Craft film.

The ending explained

When and where does The Craft: Legacy take place?

The Craft: Legacy is set in High School, Woods and Town (Contemporary). The story is set in the contemporary era, reflecting current societal norms and issues faced by teenagers today.

The setting explained

Who are the main characters in The Craft: Legacy?

The story follows Frankie (played by Gideon Adlon), Timmy Andrews (played by Nicholas Galitzine), Lily Schechner (played by Cailee Spaeny) and Helen (played by Michelle Monaghan); the character guide covers 5 characters in all.

All the characters

What are the main themes of The Craft: Legacy?

The summary picks out 3 themes: Magic, Loss and Friendship.

The themes explained

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