Since the release of "Hocus Pocus" in 1993, fans have been pining for a sequel. Disney Channel has finally answered their prayers with the announcement of a reboot in the form of a TV movie. The catch is that the original cast will not be part of this upcoming film. Details pertaining to the characters and storyline have not yet been released. However, if Winifred, Mary, and Sarah Sanderson are coming to the screen again, they certainly will not be played by Bette Milder, Kathy Nijimy, or Sarah Jessica Parker.
Rebooting a cult classic
The popularity of "Hocus Pocus" quickly rose among Disney fans, Halloween enthusiasts, and witch lovers alike.
The film became a cult classic, and fans have been waiting for a sequel for 24 years. It appears that fans will be getting only half of their wish. This TV remake will be a "reimagining" of the original, not a sequel.
David Kirschner, producer of "Hocus Pocus," will be the executive producer of the remake. Original screenwriters Neil Cuthbert and Mick Garris have been replaced by Scarlett Lacey. Lacey is known for her writing on the hit television show "The Royals."
The new film is currently in the earliest stages of pre-production. The director has not yet been announced, nor the new cast. Whether or not major elements from the original film will also be in the new one is unclear. Fans are still wondering if Thackery Binks will turn up again as a talking cat.
The Sanderson Sisters
It is unclear as to why Kirschner opted out of recasting Bette Milder, Kathy Nijimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker. The actresses has expressed interest in potentially being part of a remake. Rumors of a "Hocus Pocus" reboot have been swirling around the entertainment world over the last few years.
In 2015, Bette Milder joked about why Disney had not yet made plans to film a sequel.
She said they were "Having trouble finding a virgin." This was a treat for fans since the original Sanderson Sisters had to wait 300 years before they were finally resurrected by Max, the virgin. Max lit the Black Flame Candle, which allowed the Sanderson trio to come back to life for one day and attempt to fulfill their dream of everlasting youth by killing all of the town's children.
Just last year, Sarah Jessica Parker also expressed her desire to be part of a remake. She said that she would love it. She also made a point to say that they have all be vocal in their willingness to participate in a new version of the film. It seems as though fans will have to wait a little longer before they find out more news about the "Hocus Pocus" remake.
