The first Hocus Pocus was filmed in 1993, which means this sequel had been sought after for 29 years!
There are, of course, mixed reviews on this ultimate Halloween film. So let’s start with the positives.
The storyline starts with seeing how the Sanderson sisters became the Sanderson witches. This clever start to the story is well executed, as you see the sisters as children being ousted from their town and approached by a witch who senses their power potential.
The story then moves forward to modern times, with teens going through their own tribulations. After the dark candle is lit, the Sanderson witches are summoned.
There are a few jump scares as the witches experience their first shopping trip. The stars of Hocus Pocus 2 are, of course, the witches themselves.
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However, Winnie, played by the 76-year-old Bette Midler, stands out in my opinion as the best by far. Her scenes could have been filmed the day after the original, let alone 29 years later. Her timing and delivery of certain words such as ‘BOOOOK’ really encapsulates the same energy as the original film.
Hocus Pocus 2 negatives
Any sequel will always run into criticism, especially when it is a film as beloved by Halloween fans as the original Hocus Pocus. The main issue with this film is the special effects.
It has become slightly too ‘Disney-fied’ with added sound effects and more mystical magic scenes then the zaps and wizzes of the original movie.
There was a side storyline of the teenagers’ friendship, which seemed slightly week. The original movie had the notorious dance and song number of “I Put A Spell On You” and I personally would have loved a rendition. There was a singing number that featured “One Way Or Another” which was good, but not a patch on the original.
Would I recommend Hocus Pocus 2?
Overall, I would recommend watching this sequel as it did have the original cast and an interesting story. There were funny moments and some decent musical interludes. But the original is definitely the go-to Halloween film for all to watch!
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