Hocus Pocus 2 Review | Hilarity and Magic With Original Cast
Our Hocus Pocus 2 review looks at the latest Disney+ movie which follows the classic show from so long ago. Check our thoughts here!
Product Brand: Disney+
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It’s been 29 years since we’ve seen the Sanderson sisters, and now their magic returns for the Halloween festivities with Hocus Pocus 2. You’ll laugh, you’ll cringe, and you’ll laugh some more during one of the latest Disney+ shows to hit the viewing platform. What makes it more exciting is that the original actors cast as the famous witches return with song and sorcery.
Here are our thoughts on Hocus Pocus 2, what you should expect, and if it’s a welcome addition to Disney+. You’ll need to have a membership if you want to enjoy the show.
Hocus Pocus 2 returns the magic and music of the Sanderson sisters
The fun and magic of the Sanderson sisters return in this quirky fantasy comedy. You may recognise the original actors, namely, Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy. I mention Sarah first as I’ve loved her in so many shows, such as the first Hocus Pocus and Sex in the City.
Going back to the past
The movie starts with a glimpse into the past to when the Sanderson sisters were children. The main reveal is why they were banished from Salem and then condemned to burn. It’s when they placed the curse that would bring them back every time the black candle is lit during a full moon.
Reawakening the sisters
Of course, you’d expect it to happen again. Otherwise, there wouldn’t be a movie. The first part of the movie involves everything leading up to the reawakening of the Sanderson sisters. You’ll see all the foreshadowing and clues hinting towards the special occasion.
When the sisters do return, the world isn’t as they remember it. It’s 29 years after they were previously banished in the first movie, and there are new shops and places in Salem. It adds to the comedy and progression of the plot. I won’t spoil too much of the story, but it was incredibly enjoyable to see it unfold on Disney+.
Music, mayhem, and mystery
What would the story be like without the actors, scenes, and story? Let’s take a look at each of these elements and how well they performed in Hocus Pocus 2.
Actor performance in Hocus Pocus 2
The three actors for the Sanderson sisters return for this spectacular show, putting their spells and songs to good use. They have the same witty and sometimes dimwitted personalities as before, so they remain true to character.
There are some young actresses that join the cast who are ready to form their own coven. The three girls are having trouble with their friendship, but that all comes to an end when they need to face the Sanderson sisters in Hocus Pocus 2. With their difference put aside, they need to face their destiny and save the town. Whitney Peak, Belissa Escobedo, and Lilia Buckingham put on a stellar performance.
Scenes and locations
There aren’t many scenes and locations in Hocus Pocus 2. The introductory past takes place in a small Salem village, while the present-day Salem is larger. Only a few places take the spotlight, with the dark forest being the main focal point.
There’s one hilarious scene in a pharmacy where the teenagers convince the Sanderson sisters that young souls are trapped in facial cream and they no longer need to kill children.
The story and writing
Since we’re predominantly invested in the writing industry, the plot is important to us. It mostly revolves around the sisters returning in Hocus Pocus 2, their desire to gain the ultimate power, and the teenagers working hard to stop them. However, there’s a slight twist right at the end where Winifred has to choose between the power and her sisters.
We won’t spoil it for you, but it’s a really touching moment that shows her true humanity. There’s also a silent transfer of power to the new coven, which makes us wonder if this is the end of the Hocus Pocus brand. Or, will we see a new Disney+ series that will focus on these three girls?
Final Verdict: Hocus Pocus 2
Hocus Pocus 2 is a fun return of the Sanderson sisters with music and magic. Sure, there are a few low-budget moments, but that doesn’t take away from enjoying the show. It caters to fans of the first movie and those who haven’t seen it yet. I definitely recommend you watch it for some Halloween fun.
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