Disney’s sequel to cult classic Hocus Pocus has wrapped filming – and producer Adam Shankman teases a Halloween release date on Disney+.
The long-awaited sequel to Disney’s cult classic Halloween film Hocus Pocus completed filming on Friday 28th January, Variety reports. The news was confirmed by executive producer Adam Shankman, who congratulated the cast and crew via a post on Instagram. He also revealed that the film, starring original trio Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, would be released this Halloween on Disney+.
“SISTAAAAAHHHHSSS! Aaaaand that’s a WRAP!!! #hocuspocus2. Congratulations to the amazing team… and the WHOOOOLLLEEEE cast and crew!!! Coming to you #halloween #2022 on @disneyplus”, reads Shankman’s enthusiastic post. He’s clearly as excited about the film as the fans are.
Disney has not announced an official release date for Hocus Pocus 2 yet, but has previously confirmed it will be at some point during the Halloween season this year. It’s likely, then, that we can expect it to drop on Disney+ before the end of October.
Much like the 1993 original, the film is set in modern-day Salem, where the Sanderson sisters, powerful witches who were hanged for their child-devouring crimes, are accidentally freed by some unsuspecting youths. This time, it is three young women who set them loose and must put a stop to them.
Hocus Pocus 2 sees the return of not just the main trio, but also Doug Jones as the zombie Billy Butcherson. Well known for his work as non-human characters who feature heavy makeup and visual effects, it’s always a joy to see him cast time and again in the job he excels in.
Also part of the cast are Ted Lasso's Hannah Waddingham, Dan Finnerty, Sam Richardson (who starred in Werewolves Within), and Whitney Peak. They are joined by Tony Hale, of Veep and Arrested Development fame, who is reportedly playing not just one, but two roles in the film. He told Variety that he is both the mayor and an “evil reverend”. Hale has worked with one of Hocus Pocus’ witches before – Kathy Najimy worked with the actor on Veep.
Hocus Pocus may not have been well-received by critics on release, but has since gained a cult following. Nearly 30 years after the release of the original, it will be interesting to see what Disney do with the sequel.
Hocus Pocus 2 will be released around Halloween this year.
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