It has been 29 years since the words “We are back, Salem!” have been shouted from the mouths of the Sanderson Sisters. But, as they said, they are back.  

Released on Disney Plus Sept. 30, “Hocus Pocus 2” is the long-awaited sequel to the 1993 classic “Hocus Pocus.” However, unlike the original, this new adventure of the Sanderson Sisters—Winifred (Bette Midler), Sarah (Sarah Jessica Parker) and Mary (Kathy Najimy)—was not quite as bewitching as the original. “Hocus Pocus 2” follows the Sanderson Sisters as they are brought back from the dead and hope to get revenge on the people of Salem, again. 

Although the movie introduces new main protagonists Becca (Whitney Peak) and Izzy (Belissa Escobedo), the two seemed merely like background characters. Instead of getting to actually understand them, besides a few minor details, they both lacked the character needed to make them seem like notable characters. Despite the movie being mainly about the Sanderson Sisters, it would be nice to know a little more about the people who are trying to stop them.  

Luckily, the sisters saved some of the movie. With their limited knowledge of technology, such as automatic doors and roomba vacuums, or with their funny banter and comments, the sisters make up for where others fail. 

Since the sequel happens 29 years after the original, better quality technology would be expected, but the modern sequel to “Hocus Pocus” did not seem that modern. The lighting seemed off at certain moments making it almost difficult to see what was going on and the background looked fake. This is especially noticeable in all of the scenes that took place in the Forbidden Forest—the lighting is awful and the moon in the background does not look anywhere close to real. 

While some of the scenes were bad quality, others were just cringy. Between the mayor’s (Tony Hale) incessant need for a candy apple, a witch’s glowing blue hands, and people dancing and singing in the streets, it is pretty hard not to find the move a little corny.

Despite some parts that were lacking, “Hocus Pocus 2” managed to work in a surprising plot twist. The ending is a shockingly good turn of direction for the movie; however, it leaves more unanswered questions compared to the original. 

Overall, “Hocus Pocus 2” does not live up to the 1993 original. With its cringy scenes and not-so-prominent protagonists, it does not add up to the perfect movie. However, it is a good movie to watch with your family during the Halloween season if you want to have a few laughs.