Ah the sequel, does it matter how long it's been? As long as there's an audience for it right.
Hocus Pocus 2, the long awaited sequel to the 1993 Halloween classic. What many people don't remember is the original film was a flop for Disney. It wasn't until it air on television and released on home video that it gained popularity. Myself included.
Since the movie’s debut in 1993 it’s has become a Halloween staple. With multiple airings on television throughout October. Leading to merchandise, Halloween costumes, theme park attractions. And as of this post a Broadway adaptation is in development. And now the long awaited sequel.
The new film tells a new story of two teenagers to light the the black flame candle once again. Bringing the witches back to life.
So what parts of the new film conjures a like from me.
The backstory. The film begins with teenage Sanderson sisters. It’s explain why Winnie is so vain and how the sisters got their powers. While this trails a tiny bit off from the first film, I thought this could have been a separate movie. I liked it
The adult humor. The original film was notorious for having crude humor and jokes that went over the young ones heads. I’m happy they didn’t shy away from this. Especially because this was going to Disney+.
Everyone is in on the joke! Nuff said. Great writing.
The Sanderson sisters are older, wiser, funnier and kookier than ever. From seeing them adapt to modern ways, like face masks and the Alexa. To being a tad more evil. They are still in top form. Special shout-out to Kathy Najimy, she was even more hysterical this time around.
And what do I think is cursed
This is technically part 3. As any Hocus Pocus fan knows, a sequel was written in novelization form in 2018. Titled “Hocus Pocus and the all new sequel” it follows Max and Allison and their tween daughter. When the new film was announced I was hoping they were going to follow the book. It would be a reunion and a new story all in one. Here's hoping for a third movie that can follow this story.
The writing is a little rushed for me. I wanted to know Izzy and Becca more. Sometimes it feels like they are thrown into the story. But were all here for the Sanderson sisters, so they delivered on that part.
So what's my opinion of Hocus Pocus 2. Just like the first movie it is Halloween fun. It adds to the story and is something different. If you are a fan of the first one, then you'd agree they did not disappoint.
Hocus Pocus 2 can be streamed on Disney+