Hocus Pocus

On Halloween night in Salem, three centuries old witches are accidentally revived and set their sights on reclaiming youth and power. Their schemes weave through the town as a spell book, a talking black cat, and a flurry of tricks push every edge of the holiday. A curious teen named Max, his sister Dani, and their new friend Allison join forces with the cat and a few unlikely locals to stand against the witches and protect their town. Together they race against time as daylight approaches, hoping to foil the sisters' plan before the world wakes to a very different dawn. The film blends whimsy and warmth, making it accessible to both kids and adults.

Directed by Kenny Ortega, the 1993 film came to life from an original story by Neil Cuthbert, David Kirschner and Mick Garris. It blends musical numbers, playful slapstick, and a cheeky supernatural tone that fit its family friendly Halloween vibe. Its tunes help define the mood.

It grossed $51,663,767 worldwide on a $28,000,000 budget, making it a modest but profitable family Halloween feature that grew into a beloved seasonal staple through home video and cable airings. Its lasting appeal helped it become a staple on home video and later television rotations, ensuring new generations discover its quirks each autumn.

The Sanderson sisters became Halloween icons thanks to bold costumes, striking production design, and standout musical moments that still show up in fan art and cosplay. The movie helped kick off a 90s nostalgia wave and remains a go to choice for fans seeking festive fun. Merch, memes and annual marathons keep the chatter alive.

At release, reviews were mixed but many praised the energy of the performances and the chemistry of the three witches. The film balances humor with spooky flourishes while foregrounding friendship, family, and bravery, offering a light hearted take on Halloween folklore that still resonates with audiences today.