Disney’s Hocus Pocus is one of those films that’s become bigger with age. Originally released in 1993, the tale of the Sanderson sisters – a trio of witches transported from 1693 to 1993 – wasn’t a huge hit at the time. Over the past 25 years, however, the film has taken on legendary status, largely due to its October airings on Disney Channel where it’s connected with new generations of fans each year. Directed by Kenny Ortega, the appeal to modern audiences is quite apparent – with Hocus Pocus containing much of the same charm that’s pushed his Descendants trilogy (the third chapter arrives next year) into massive success. The song and dance combined with the magical, but not quite realistic scenery gives it a theatrical feel, drawing audiences into the story penned for the screen by Neil Cuthbert (Return of Swamp Thing) and “Master of Horror” Mick Garris.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
In Hocus Pocus, the Sanderson sisters are in for a devil of a time when their restless spirits are accidentally conjured up on Halloween night, in 1993 Salem, Massachusetts. Banished 300 years ago for practicing their sorcery, this trio of triple-threat demons vowed to one day reappear—and now they’re back—weaving an outrageous web of comedy and chaos. However, to guarantee their immortality, the things they need are the very things that could bring them down: Max Dennison (Omri Katz), his little sister Dani (Thora Birch), and the Allison (Vinessa Shaw), three kids with the power to make or break the witches’ spell.
The 25th Anniversary Edition:
Released on Blu-ray and Digital HD (available to watch on Movies Anywhere), the 25th Anniversary Edition of Hocus Pocus pairs the original theatrical film with a new We ♥︎ Hocus Pocus: Trivia and Treats Edition, featuring pop up video extras including fun facts, trivia, deleted scenes, cast and crew commentary, and behind-the-scenes secrets. Rather than viewing the bonus features on their own, you’re actually seeing them alongside the film itself – and there’s some fun little quirks, like live-action memes.
While the Blu-ray is a must-own for those wishing to enjoy the film in all its HD glory year-round, this year also brings a chance to see the movie on the big screen once more! AMC Theaters is bringing it back for a limited run from October 26 – 31st, so get tickets while you still can. But that’s not all…
Freeform will air the Hocus Pocus 25th Anniversary Halloween Bash, an all-star party in honor of the cult classic film’s milestone anniversary. The 90-minute special, filmed at the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetery to celebrate the movie’s status as a Halloween staple, will premiere on SATURDAY, OCT. 20, at 8:15 PM EDT/PDT as part of Freeform’s “31 Nights of Halloween” programming event.
