Tales & Tomes

Spoiler-Free Synopsis

Hocus Pocus (1993), directed by Kenny Ortega, is the Halloween classic that never gets old. Set in the charming town of Salem, Massachusetts, the story follows Max Dennison, his sister Dani, and their new friend Allison as they accidentally resurrect the infamous Sanderson Sisters – a trio of witches who were executed centuries ago for practicing dark magic. Chaos, comedy, and plenty of broomstick-fueled mischief follow as the kids race to stop the sisters before sunrise.

It’s the perfect mix of spooky and silly, blending supernatural fun with a touch of ‘90s nostalgia that continues to enchant audiences every October.

My Review

Few Halloween movies capture the spirit of the season quite like Hocus Pocus. It’s whimsical, spooky without being scary, and endlessly rewatchable. Every frame feels steeped in that autumn magic, crisp leaves, candlelight, and a touch of mischief. What makes it special is that it doesn’t try to be anything more than what it is: pure Halloween fun.

The Sanderson Sisters, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, are truly the heart of this film. Their performances are larger-than-life in the best possible way. Midler commands every scene as Winifred with theatrical flair, Parker’s ditzy Sarah is delightfully funny, and Najimy’s Mary delivers perfect comedic timing. Their chemistry makes the movie an instant classic. They’re villains you can’t help but adore.

The trio’s energy is balanced beautifully by the grounded performances of the younger cast. Omri Katz, Thora Birch, and Vinessa Shaw bring just enough sincerity to keep the story from spinning completely into absurdity. Even the talking cat, Binx, manages to tug at the heartstrings, a small miracle in itself.

Kenny Ortega’s direction shines in the film’s pacing and choreography (no surprise there, given his later High School Musical fame). The production design is another standout, from the cozy autumn streets of Salem to the eerie glow of the witches’ lair. The film feels handcrafted for Halloween nights, best enjoyed with popcorn, blankets, and maybe a black cat curled at your feet.

While the humor can be a little dated at times, Hocus Pocus still captures that perfect blend of mischievous and heartwarming. It’s campy, theatrical, and fully aware of how over-the-top it is and that’s exactly why it works.

My Favorite Part

It’s hard not to love every scene with the Sanderson Sisters, but my favorite moment has to be the “I Put a Spell on You” performance. It’s pure Halloween perfection, campy, chaotic, and irresistible. Bette Midler’s stage presence in that number could raise the dead (literally, in this case). It’s the kind of moment that makes you grin every single rewatch.

Recommendation

If you’re looking for a movie that feels like Halloween, Hocus Pocus is it. It’s family-friendly but filled with enough wit and charm for adults to enjoy just as much. Whether you’re revisiting it for nostalgia or discovering it for the first time, it’s a film that never fails to capture the magic of spooky season.

A timeless Halloween classic that’s equal parts funny, magical, and heartwarming. It’s not October without the Sanderson Sisters.