Hocus Pocus 2, written by Jen D’Angelo and directed by Anne Fletcher, begins with a background of the Sanderson Sisters in their early years. It then fast-forwards to Salem, Massachusetts, present-day, and introduces characters Becca (played by Whitney Peak) and Izzy (played by Belissa Escobedo). This movie also stars the original characters of Hocus Pocus, such as Bette Midler as Winifred Sanderson, Kathy Najimy as Mary Sanderson, Sarah Jessica Parker as Sarah Sanderson, and Doug Jones as Billy Butcherson.
After being banished in the first movie, nearly 30 years later, the Sanderson Sisters magically come back after Gilbert (played by Sam Richardson) secretly gives Becca and Izzy a black flame candle in hopes they will use it to summon the sisters. His plan worked, and the Sanderson sisters returned to wreak havoc on Salem for another Halloween. Becca and Izzy decided to take it upon themselves to mend fences with their old friend, Cassie (played by Lilia Buckingham), and join forces to try and take down the sisters to save Salem from a black magic takeover. This movie shows that bonds between the Sanderson sisters, or friends in general, can be stronger than any magical force.
I enjoyed Hocus Pocus 2 because I feel the film was produced well for being a sequel. I also liked that the movie came out on September 30, 2022, because it was a nice transition into the Halloween season. I give it a four out of five stars rating. I think this would be a great movie to watch with some of your friends on a chilly Halloween Night, snuggled up with candy, snacks, and some candles to find out if the Sanderson sisters took over Salem or went back to where they began.
