A Summer Halloween Release
Despite becoming an October tradition, Hocus Pocus opened in American cinemas on July 16, 1993.
Movie
Hocus Pocus
It's just a bunch of Hocus Pocus.
After 300 years of slumber, three sister witches are accidentally resurrected in Salem on Halloween night, and it is up to three kids and their newfound feline friend to put an end to the witches' reign of terror once and for all.
Why it's in the Vault
Hocus Pocus is one of those childhood Halloween memories that can instantly bring back the excitement of October evenings. With its wonderfully theatrical Sanderson sisters, mischievous spells, talking cat and autumnal Salem atmosphere, it captures a particular kind of 1990s Disney magic. Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy are irresistibly entertaining, even when the story feels predictable and the comedy rather childish. It may not be an exceptional film by today's standards, but its colorful witchcraft, playful scares and comforting nostalgia make it a seasonal favorite worth revisiting.
— Matty, Curator of the Vault
Atmosphere
Witchy, playful, autumnal, spooky, nostalgic
Halloween magic
Childhood nostalgia
Playful comedy
Spooky scares
Dans les coulisses
Ce qu'on ne voit pas à l'écran
A Story Inspired by a Cat
Producer David Kirschner developed the initial idea after telling his daughter a story inspired by a neighbor's black cat.
A Darker Early Script
The project was originally developed under the working title Halloween House, with a darker tone than the finished film.
A Talking Cat Created with Effects
Thackery Binx was brought to life through a combination of real cats, puppetry, animatronics and computer-generated imagery.
Flying on Wires
The Sanderson sisters' flying scenes used wire rigs on Disney soundstages.
Real Salem on Screen
The opening village scenes were filmed at Pioneer Village, a historical recreation in Salem, Massachusetts.
Aux origines
An original story
Palette
Les couleurs du film
Sanderson Witch Purple#69416F
Pumpkin Orange#DC7832
Black Flame Candle#302B3C
Spellbook Brown#76503D
Salem Moonlight Blue#58738D
Enchanted Green#84965B
Images
