WJDB News
In Brief: ‘Hocus Pocus’ could get animated
By Staff
June 5, 2023
A third, possibly animated film in the Hocus Pocus franchise — once again featuring Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker as a trio of Salem witches — is currently in the works at Disney, Sean Bailey, President of the Studios’ Motion Picture Production tells The New York Times. “Kathy had a good idea that the third one should be animated,” he shares. “That would be cool and a smart idea. It’s fun, funny, and could be interesting and innovative, like old-fashioned or new [animation]…. Of course, I’d be happy to have a conversation [for a third film], it just depends on what Kathy and Bette want!” Hocus Pocus 2 broke streaming records for the Disney+ platform upon its debut…
I’m beginning to think that there might actually be an animated Hocus Pocus as well as a live action sequel in the works.
When you posted that Disney has a Hocus Pocus 3 in the works, I immediately checked the IMDB, and all I could find was an animated version in development along with the original writer Mick Garris (and added writer Scarlett Lacey, of ‘The Royals’). This would appear to be an animated (recreation) version of the original Hocus Pocus. No other stars or information attached.
Since I’m still following the thread, I just noticed that the IMDB/Disney has now posted a Hocus Pocus 3 in development, with Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy and Sarah Jessica Parker attached. In addition, they have listed Anne Fletcher (Hocus Pocus 2) as Director, and Jen D’Angelo (Hocus Pocus 2) as writer. Plot keywords are: sequel, third part, trio, magic, witch, number 3 in title, female protagonist, Disney, and Disney Plus.
https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28024423/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1
At this point, I’m going to take a leap of faith here, and assume there will be an animated Hocus Pocus, in addition to a live action sequel. The fact that Bette, Sarah and Kathy are already listed as part of the initial (and only at this point) cast for HP3 is a pretty good sign that we probably have a franchise on our hands. I believe you previously posted that Hocus Pocus 2 broke all kinds of records for Disney Plus, so I think it’s reasonable that Disney would want to repeat that kind of magic (pun intended). They may have a cash cow on their hands. After all, what is Halloween without Hocus Pocus??
I realize that projects in development can change at a moment’s notice, but is it safe to assume that the initial/original cast being listed in the sequel would indicate that contracts have already been signed? I really can’t imagine a HP3 without Bette, so I’m really hoping that she is indeed, attached to the sequel, as well as Sarah and Kathy. So far, a full plot, synopsis, or added crew/cast has not been added, although there is rumor that a sequel might include more of the original cast that was missing in HP2.
I certainly hope this continues to develop. Hocus Pocus has been very good to Disney, despite them ignoring it for almost 30 years. I believe it’s also Bette’s favorite film character. Late but not forgotten, this is looking like a win-win. Based on your recent post about favorite actors in their 70’s, it looks like she’s awakened a new generation of people who are admiring her work, and this may be the film (franchise) that she is or becomes most identified with.
I came to the same conclusion you’ve stated so eloquently, as usual. Bette wants a franchise, and I’m pretty sure SJP will do it because she said she’d do it. Kathy came up with the animation idea, but you can bet she’ll join the other two.