Hocus Pocus 2 Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Three child-hungry witches get summoned by teenagers again, but instead of eating kids, they sing karaoke and then decide sisterhood is magic.

🍿 Hocus Pocus 2: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Opening in 17th Century Salem

The film opens in 1653 Salem, introducing young Winifred, Mary, and Sarah Sanderson. Winifred refuses to marry John Pritchett and is banished by Reverend Traske for her defiance. She rescues her sisters, and they encounter the Mother Witch in the woods, who gifts them a book of spells, warning them against a specific dangerous spell. This sets the stage for Winifred’s hunger for power and the bond between the sisters.

Present-Day Resurrection

In 2022, teenagers Becca and Izzy, interested in witchcraft, are given a Black Flame Candle by Gilbert, the owner of a magic shop. The candle is lit on Becca’s 16th birthday during a full moon, unintentionally resurrecting the Sanderson Sisters. The witches are back, and they’re hungry for youth and power, leading to comical chaos in modern-day Salem.

Modern Mishaps and Revenge

The Sanderson Sisters navigate the modern world with hilarious results, acquiring new ‘brooms’ like Roombas and a Swiffer. They discover Mayor Traske is a descendant of the Reverend who banished them, seeking revenge. They trap Becca and Izzy, forcing Gilbert to find the ingredients for a powerful spell, setting in motion their plan for ultimate power.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Winifred Sanderson (Bette Midler): The headstrong and power-hungry leader of the Sanderson sisters who seeks to become all-powerful.
• Sarah Sanderson (Sarah Jessica Parker): The ditzy and alluring Sanderson sister known for her distinctive call and pursuit of children.
• Mary Sanderson (Kathy Najimy): The quirky and often misguided Sanderson sister with a distinctive crooked smile and a keen sense of smell.
• Becca (Whitney Peak): A modern-day teenager with Wiccan interests who accidentally resurrects the Sanderson sisters and discovers her own magical abilities.
• Izzy (Belissa Escobedo): Becca’s loyal and skeptical best friend who assists in battling the Sanderson sisters.
• Billy Butcherson (Doug Jones): Winifred’s former lover and resurrected zombie who is forced to aid the Sanderson sisters, but ultimately helps the protagonists.
• Gilbert (Sam Richardson): The owner of the Olde Salem Magic Shoppe who idolizes the Sanderson sisters and inadvertently brings them back.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Winifred Sanderson: “Lock up your children! Yes, Salem, we’re back!” – Winifred announces the return of the Sanderson Sisters in the trailer, signaling their intent to wreak havoc once again.
• Winifred Sanderson: “Book!” – Winifred is always calling out for her spell book.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $100,000,000
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 Hocus Pocus 2 Reviews

Personal Review

Okay, I’ll admit it: I was nervous about this sequel. But as soon as Bette Midler cackled, I was sold! It’s pure nostalgia, but with a modern twist. That Walgreens scene was hilarious! I loved seeing the Sanderson Sisters back, even if the new characters weren’t as memorable as Max and Dani. The ending made me a little teary-eyed, to be honest. If you loved the original, you’ll definitely enjoy this one. Don’t expect Oscar-worthy cinema, but it’s a great, fun watch!

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of the original Hocus Pocus”
  • “Families looking for a Halloween-themed movie”
  • “Viewers who enjoy lighthearted fantasy comedies”
  • “Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy fans”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild peril”
  • “Some frightening images”
  • “Supernatural themes”
  • “Occasional comedic violence”

Professional Reviews

• Variety: “Hocus Pocus 2 delivers nostalgic charm with the return of Midler, Parker, and Najimy. While the plot lacks depth, the trio’s comedic timing is impeccable. A delightful watch for fans seeking familiar thrills and lighthearted Halloween fun.
• The Hollywood Reporter: “This sequel relies heavily on callbacks to the original, offering little in the way of innovation. The Sanderson Sisters are still a hoot, but the new characters fail to make a lasting impression. It’s a decent offering, but not the bewitching follow-up we hoped for.
• Empire: “Hocus Pocus 2 is a fun, family-friendly adventure that recaptures some of the original’s spark. While the story is predictable, the performances are energetic, and the film’s heart is in the right place. A worthwhile viewing for nostalgia and a little Halloween magic.

Audience Reactions

The return of the Sanderson Sisters was everything I hoped for and more!: Everyone agrees that Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy haven’t lost their magic.

I loved all of the easter eggs and nods to the first movie; it really felt like a celebration of Hocus Pocus!: Most people think the movie perfectly captures the spirit and humor of the original while adding its own unique charm.

Overall Consensus: A fun, nostalgic sequel that brings back the beloved Sanderson Sisters, but it doesn’t quite reach the iconic status of the original. Fans of the first movie will find plenty to enjoy.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Doug Jones mentioned on a podcast that the wig he wore as Billy Butcherson in this movie is the same one he wore in the first movie.”
• “The film includes a nod to the original by featuring a Sanderson sisters costume contest, which allows the real sisters to blend into the celebration.”
• “Filming took place in Newport, Rhode Island, specifically in Washington Square and Touro Street.”

🖥️ How to Watch Hocus Pocus 2?

Hocus Pocus 2 is exclusively available on Disney+. Subscribers can stream the movie at any time on the platform. Unfortunately, physical copies for purchase are not yet available, and there are no options to rent the movie on other streaming services like Prime Video or Apple TV as of the current date. Check Disney+ for any updates on availability.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Hocus Pocus 2, you might like these similar films:

• Hocus Pocus (1993): Direct sequel to the original movie, continuing the story of the Sanderson Sisters.
• The Witches (1990): Similar theme of witches and children in peril, with dark fantasy elements.
• Practical Magic (1998): Features witches with supernatural powers, family bonds, and a touch of romance.

🛒 Hocus Pocus 2 Related Products

• Hocus Pocus (1993) [Blu-ray]: Relive the original magic with this Blu-ray edition. Perfect for completing your Hocus Pocus collection and enjoying the classic film in high quality.
• Hocus Pocus: The Official Cookbook: Create spooky treats inspired by the film. Enjoy spellbinding recipes perfect for Halloween parties and Hocus Pocus viewings.
• Funko Pop! Disney: Hocus Pocus 2 – Winifred Sanderson: Add a touch of witchy charm to your collection with this detailed Funko Pop! figure of Winifred Sanderson. A great gift for fans of all ages.
• Hocus Pocus T-Shirt: Show off your love for the film with a stylish and comfortable Hocus Pocus t-shirt. Featuring iconic imagery and quotes from the movie.

🎧 Soundtrack

Hocus Pocus 2 features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “One Way or Another” – performed by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy
• “The Bitch Is Back” – performed by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy
• “Garden of Magic” – performed by Hannah Waddingham

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Did you know in HOCUS POCUS 2…

Ever wonder about the details you might have missed in Hocus Pocus 2? This short video is packed with cool facts that will make you appreciate the movie even more. I was totally surprised by some of these!

Hocus Pocus 2 is kinda dumb…

Want a brutally honest take on Hocus Pocus 2? Alex Meyers hilariously breaks down why the movie might not be as great as you remember. Honestly, I found myself agreeing with some of his points!

Hocus Pocus – Who Is The Fourth Sanderson Sister? (ft. Jon Solo)

Did you know there was a FOURTH Sanderson sister?! This video explores the lore behind Elizabeth Sanderson. I had no idea she even existed!

✨ Rate