Monday, October 26, 2026
®
The World's Local News Source®
Cherryville, NC (WNN) - As Halloween approaches, many families are revisiting their favorite spooky-season movies, and Hocus Pocus remains a popular choice for viewers looking for a mix of comedy, magic, and Halloween nostalgia.
Released in 1993, Hocus Pocus is a fantasy comedy that follows three witches known as the Sanderson sisters, who are accidentally brought back to life in Salem, Massachusetts, on Halloween night. After moving to Salem with his family, teenager Max Dennison, played by Omri Katz, lights a mysterious candle inside the sisters’ old house, unknowingly setting their return in motion.
Movie still from Hocus Pocus (1993)
With the help of his younger sister, Dani, played by Thora Birch, and his new friend, Allison, played by Vinessa Shaw, Max must find a way to stop the witches before they can carry out their plan. Along the way, the group encounters a talking black cat named Binx, voiced by Jason Marsden, magical mishaps, and plenty of trouble as they race against time to save Salem’s children.
Starring Bette Midler as Winifred, Sarah Jessica Parker as Sarah, and Kathy Najimy as Mary as the Sanderson sisters, the film brings together three distinct personalities that help make the story memorable. From Winifred’s commanding presence to Sarah’s playful charm and Mary’s comedic reactions, the witches provide much of the movie’s humor.
Although Hocus Pocus received mixed reviews when it first premiered, it gradually developed a devoted following through television broadcasts, home video, and annual Halloween viewings. Over time, the film became a seasonal favorite for audiences who enjoy its blend of lighthearted scares, memorable performances, and nostalgic atmosphere.
The Sanderson Sisters pictured in this movie still
I’m giving Hocus Pocus 4 out of 5 hoots because it incorporates elements of Salem’s history while keeping the story lighthearted and entertaining. I think it offers younger audiences an approachable introduction to some of the history and culture surrounding the Salem witch trials without making the film too dark or heavy.
News Tip? Contact WNN at newsdesk@wisenewsnetwork.com
Subscribe to our FREE newsletter for news updates here: https://www.wisenewsnetwork.com/subscribe/index.html
For further WNN news articles, visit https://wisenewsnetwork.com
For more WNN news videos, visit YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wisenewsnetwork
North Carolina Press Association Member
©️Copyright 2026 Wise News Network. All rights reserved.
