Two of the three adolescent girls who were responsible for reviving the Sanderson Sisters prove that age is no barrier to success by outwitting the witches in a new clip from Hocus Pocus 2. Izzy (Belissa Escobedo) and Becca (Whitney Peak) use their intelligence and cunning against their would-be murderers, convincing Winnie (Bette Middler), Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker), and Mary (Kathy Najimy) that they, too, are members of a coven and are forty years old, well beyond the child and adolescent age range the witches seek to feast upon. This preview was the most recent in a steady stream of promotional materials for the follow-up to Hocus Pocus (1993).
At this pace, the entire film would have been released in clips well before its scheduled release date of Friday. However, we aren’t grumbling about it. Almost three decades have passed since the events of Hocus Pocus 2, so anything to tide us over is greatly appreciated. Izzy, Becca, and Cassie (Lilia Buckingham) are three teenagers at the core of the plot of Hocus Pocus 2, who unintentionally resurrect the Sanderson Sisters to wreak havoc on Salem, Massachusetts once more.
The film also features the reappearance of Doug Jones as William “Billy” Butcherson, along with the previously mentioned Kathy Najimy, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Bette Midler. Unfortunately, none of the original cast members from the film will be returning to reprise their roles, including Thora Birch, who recently expressed her regret at not being able to make an appearance because of her busy schedule. Tony Hale, Sam Richardson, and Hannah Waddingham will also explore the realm of the Sanderson Sisters and their evil spellbook, with Ginger Minj, Kornbread Jeté, and Kahmora Hall from past seasons of RuPaul’s Drag Race starring as drag versions of the witchy queens.
Early comments to the film have been pouring copious quantities of praise into the witch’s cauldron, which is fantastic news for those who were anxious that the sequel wouldn’t stand up. After seeing the film, Maggie Lovitt was captivated by what she calls “fantastic entertainment” and a “really charming new cast.” Other reviews have praised Anne Fletcher’s direction and the performances of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy. The film’s debut on Disney+ on Friday, September 30.