Hocus Pocus 2 Will Put A Spell On You... and It's The Good Kind.

Spooky Season begins and what a way to start than with the return of the Sanderson sisters. 29 years since the original Hocus Pocus, Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy reprise their roles as Winifred, Sarah, and Mary respectively with the exception of Doug Jones as the good zombie, Billy Butcherson. 

Worries about the sequel looking too much like a Disney Channel should be put to rest since Hocus Pocus 2 exceeds expectations despite not making any bold choices or blowing minds in any way. Still, like most sequels or reboots lately, the nostalgia is utilized reasonably while introducing new, modern elements to a seasoned phenomenon. 

The sequel centers around Becca and her friend, Izzy celebrating Halloween and Becca's 16th birthday. (which is convenient) After being given a candle by Gilbert, the new owner of the Sanderson house turned gift shop, Becca and Izzy accidentally resurrect the sisters once again. Instead of wanting to enact their revenge on the children of Salem, the witches find themselves facing an old threat that challenged their sisterhood. 

Is Hocus Pocus 2 worth the wait? Anyone who is a fan of the original is bound to have fun and laugh out loud when they watch this sequel. It does not miss a beat nor does it erase the popularity the predecessor has gained in order to please anyone. In fact, it might have enhanced, possibly bringing in a whole new generation to discover the kookiness that is the Sanderson sisters. Although parts of the plot are cliche to go with the times it doesn't stray away too much to become more serious than silly. And boy, are they silly. 

There's nothing more to say about the three leads we have been dying to see since the announcement of the sequel for they are better than ever. The new stars of the film are, however, quaint enough to not overshadow but don't sparkle enough for viewers to want to know more about them. The real mystery is the inclusion of Hannah Waddingham's (Ted Lasso) memorable appearance that was just too short.

With new musical numbers and a slight tribute to the LGBTQ+ community that made this original movie a Halloween tradition, Hocus Pocus might possibly be one of Disney Plus's most entertaining original movies yet. They haven't exactly been improving with the quality of their feature film content and this sequel changes that. It is worrying considering that the success had to be earned through an already established IP but hopefully, things change from here on out. 

The big question is does it surpass the original? It is safe to say that the original is still the best in my opinion (even if there are others who claim this is an improvement from the first movie) but that does not mean that Hocus Pocus 2 isn't good. It is the perfect movie for the season. If you let it, Hocus Pocus 2 will put a spell on you, and it's the good kind.