Review of Hocus Pocus (1993) by Harry W — 25 Sep 2016

Remarkably and oddly cult-like in approach, a dark Disney flick and a film about a trio of 300 year old witches deserves a way better critical analysis, generally. The acting from the three leading ladies is committed and consistent throughout, particularly from Midler as the matriarchal sorceress Winifred Sanderson.

I don't actually know anyone that dislikes Hocus Pocus, especially when watched with family in the dark on Halloween night. Its really a tribute to the holiday of Halloween - my favourite holiday - and its only this and Michael Dougherty's Trick 'r Treat that really convey the exciting spirit of it.

It meanders between scary and zany in a heartbeat and its so much fun throughout. It also stars a very young and fresh-faced Thora Birch who avoids the typical "annoying, over-acting Disney kid" archetype thankfully and is great on screen.

Vinessa Shaw and Omri Katz also give good performances and manage to not be overshadowed by the witches. Its also jam-packed with detail that adults will enjoy more than children, in fact I'd probably recommend this to older kids and their parents.

Definitely a must-watch for Halloween and a nostalgic favourite.