Thomas Storai 
“Hocus Pocus 2 recaptures the magic of the first movie. Delightfully wicked and entertaining, it’s a great pleasure to see Sanderson sisters again!”
“The witches are back!” Twenty-nine years after the original Hocus Pocus, the Sanderson sisters return for a sequel. The film begins streaming tomorrow on Disney Plus. But, is this a worthy sequel? Or did the studio wait too long to light the black flame candle?
STORY
Over the years, the original Hocus Pocus has become a Halloween classic. Honestly, I watch it every year in October. It is a family ritual. Who would have thought we’d ever get a sequel? This was a great surprise when the announcement was made. However, making another installment to a classic is never an easy task. The good news though, Disney has been able to succeed at this task.
First of all, the story is set in the present time, twenty-nine years after the events of the original film. Which is the logical choice. When you make a sequel so many years later, set it during our time. No need to de-age anyone. Plus, you can attract a new audience that will connect with it more easily. This time, it is up to three high-school students to stop the Sanderson sisters.
Hocus Pocus 2 is a sequel done right. Because it recaptures the magic of the original while telling a new story. Indeed, it doesn’t feel like a rehash. It is a new story that brings back our favorite witches while introducing new characters. Winnie, Mary, and Sarah are just as wicked and funny. It is almost as if they had never left. Their interactions are like they were in the first film. But further exploring their story makes it all worth it. The new group of characters is a great addition to this universe. There is enough potential for another sequel.
Fans, I can say you will not be disappointed. It is entertaining and delightfully wicked. You will have a good time laughing. I can see this one becoming another Halloween classic.
CAST
Obviously, this is absolutely satisfying to see Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy returning as the Sanderson sisters. Their on-screen chemistry is still there. Undoubtedly, this is the nostalgia that we kids from the nineties needed! Doug Jones is also back in his role as Billy Butcherson.
Moreover, Whitney Peak, Belissa Escobedo, and Lilia Buckingham form a pretty good team. Plus, you can be sure that Tony Hale adds his own touch of comedy. Not to mention, that it wouldn’t be Hocus Pocus without a black cat!
VISUALS
Visually, Hocus Pocus 2 tries to keep the same aesthetic as the first film. It has a Halloween vibe with autumnal cinematography. Furthermore, it uses a mix of practical sets that feel they could have used back then while still making it look like it was shot nowadays. This is a great exploit. It also makes good use of CGI.
VERDICT
Hocus Pocus 2 recaptures the magic of the first movie. Delightfully wicked and entertaining, it’s a great pleasure to see the Sanderson sisters again! This is undoubtedly going to become another Halloween classic.
Hocus Pocus 2 starts streaming on Disney Plus tomorrow!
Collectables and Anime Editor for Future Of The Force.
Star Wars expert and Japan connoisseur.
