waiver's review about Hocus Pocus 2(2022)

waiver

Rating 8

13:30 17 March, 2024

Wow, who would've thought a sequel to the 1993 film would happen, and with the original cast no less?! Do the actresses playing the three witches never age? This film can also be treated as a stand-alone, as no prior knowledge of the previous film is needed to enjoy this one. There are some nods to the first film, but this plot is much more polished and mature. It offers a varied and dynamic interpretation of what friendship and family mean.

The original cast of the Sanderson Sisters returns after 29 years, and this move by Disney is impressive. However, this sequel doesn't feel like a sequel—it's more like a rehash of Witches Gone Wild 2022. It almost entirely duplicates the plot and gags of the first film (including the witches' musical performance and Halloween stage antics) while incorporating "politically correct" and trendy elements that young girls will likely enjoy. "Pointing out differences and labeling them as weird is a form of mockery" counts as one of them, and this is an invaluable lesson for children watching the show. This effort and sentiment earn it an extra star.