Hocus Pocus is one of the greatest movies of all-time. And absolutely perfect Halloween viewing for all ages. It’s a fun adventure involving witches with tons of humor and great characters.
Here are some of the best moments from the film:
“Another glorious morning”
These are the first words we hear from Bette Midler’s Winifred Sanderson, and honestly, what a mood. It perfectly sets up her character.
Turning Thackery into a cat as punishment
Bless Kenny Ortega. The way that all the spells are choreographed is brilliant, and you know that’s Ortega’s doing. The lyrical way it rolls off Midler’s tongue with Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy in the background keeps the spell etched in your mind, no matter how long it’s been since you’ve watched Hocus Pocus.
Yabbos
Has anyone actually used the word yabbos when discussing female anatomy? Either way, this solidifies the sibling dynamic between Max and Dani, the most important relationship in the movie.
Lighting the Black Flame Candle
Here we go: without Max’s stupidity, there would be no movie! Added bonus is that uses the title of the film! But virgins, take note: lighting the Black Flame Candle leads to so many problems.
A Calming Circle
This is another classic Winnie moment, and it’s very apropos for 2020.
A Blessing From an Angel
All the little comedic touches just work so well. Each of the reactions from these actresses is hysterical because why would a witch want to be blessed!
“Come Little Children”
Every song in Hocus Pocus is outstanding, but Parker’s voice is truly seductive, and this one always remains stuck in my head. No wonder Sarah was able to lure so many children!
Billy speaks!
Billy Butcherson starts off as a villain, but he ends as a massive help to the kids. Silent due to Winnie’s vengeance, he finally frees himself and hurls some truly amazing insults her way. And I have to point out that Billy is played by the incomparable Doug Jones to perfection.
Max takes the potion
Ultimately, the climax comes down to the fact that Max can do what Thackery couldn’t three-hundred years ago: save his sister from the Sanderson sisters. The weight of this scene never loses its power after all these years because you believed that they were siblings and would do anything to save each other.
“I Put A Spell On You”
Of course, I couldn’t forget the most memorable scene in the movie! There’s no way you don’t automatically think of this scene when someone brings up Hocus Pocus. It’s truly iconic in so many ways. Again, Ortega’s choereography plus Midler’s vocals, the arrangement, and a revamp of a classic song…there is no bad!
Do you agree with our list? Is Hocus Pocus one of your must watch movies on Halloween? What is your favorite scene?
Hocus Pocus will be airing multiple times during Freeform’s 31 Nights of Halloween, or you can check it out on Disney+!
