It’s tough to find a Halloween classic that isn’t as beloved as Hocus Pocus. The 1993 film, starring unforgettable lead roles by Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker continues to steal hearts and force laughter in families everywhere. Since it’s such a well-known film, it’s almost hard to believe that it’s been decades without a sequel. But, as Disney+ continues to amp up their upcoming releases, they’ve officially announced that a Hocus Pocus 2 is in the works, and we couldn’t be more excited.
Why Did Hocus Pocus Wait For Disney+?
I know it’s hard to believe now, but Hocus Pocus wasn’t a huge success when it first came out. Shocker, I know. In fact, the film barely beat its budget at the box office. Its fame and success developed over time. Over the years it has become a cult classic after seasonal airings on Disney Channel and ABC Family (now known as Freeform). As somebody who grew up watching it every year, we all know that it’s certainly become a childhood staple to watch Hocus Pocus with your family on the nights leading up to Halloween.
Most sequels tend to come out after the success of the first film. Because Hocus Pocus didn’t have that opportunity, it had to have been hard to find the right time. The stars, especially Sarah Jessica Parker, had pretty full schedules in the years after. So, scheduling may also have been a nightmare. But director Kenny Ortega never really left the Disney scene, going on to work on plenty of films including the High School Musical trilogy that will never be forgotten. So far none of the old stars are attached to the sequel, but we can’t imagine that it will go on without at least some of them.
Image via Disney
What We Know About The Collab So Far
Disney+ has shocked many of its intended streamers by announcing upcoming films that will be ready upon release of the service in November. Unfortunately, though, the Hocus Pocus sequel won’t be ready on day one. So far, it’s just Jen D’Angelo who has been announced as lead writer and is working on the script. D’Angelo is best recognized for her writing and co-producing on Workaholics. We’re going to cross our fingers that our beloved Sanderson Sisters somehow make their way back to Salem. After all, it won’t be Hocus Pocus without them.
Though we don’t know much about the potential of Hocus Pocus 2 and Disney+ yet, we’re predicting a 2021 release. It must release around Halloween. Plus, we’re not sure a year is enough to give us all of the magic that the first film provided. Though, you can count on Comic Years to tell you everything we know when more information is announced!spooky movies halloween
So, readers, is Hocus Pocus on your must-watch list of spooky Halloween movies this October? And what do you hope to see in the upcoming sequel? Let us know!
Featured image via Disney.