Although it was only a modest hit when it premiered in theaters in 1993, Disney’s Hocus Pocus has tremendously grown in popularity in recent years. Whether it be the tongue-in-cheek performances of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, the early appearance by legendary monster performer Doug Jones, or the film’s witty charm, fans of the flick just can’t get enough these days! Hocus Pocus merchandise flies off the shelves of Disney Parks shops and everyone’s favorite witches are a big hit when they appear in the “Villain Spelltacular” at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Even so, the fans want more! Fortunately, Disney is happy to oblige. Today, we’ve learned that The Disney Channel will produce an all-new reboot movie based on the popular franchise for television!
A network spokesperson for Disney has confirmed to The Wrap that a new TV movie which “re-imagines” the events of the original film is in early development for the cable channel. Scarlett Lacey (The Royals) is in charge of the script. David Kirschner (who has a producer credit on the 1993 original) will executive produce the new film.
While this news will obviously make a lot of Hocus Pocus fans happy, others may be upset that this development could essentially shut the door on the possibility of a direct sequel to the film featuring all of the original stars (all of them have recently said they’d love to hop on to their brooms again for a sequel). Furthermore, it’s interesting that Disney decided the franchise would be better suited for a TV movie than a full theatrical release. Perhaps they’re underestimating the popularity of the film (like they consistently do with their merchandise offerings related to the film).
Stay tuned to Horror News Network for more details on the Hocus Pocus TV movie reboot as they break!
