As Halloween draws near, the spooky movie business boom, the candy prices increase, and costumes are created. This holiday has been celebrated the same for years and history tends to repeat itself; that’s why the Sanderson sisters are back. 

The three iconic witches from 1993 have returned after twenty-nine years, but are they the same? In the original Hocus Pocus, the plot was Max Dennison (the main character), Allison (his crush), and Dani (his little sister) bring the Sanderson sisters (Winifred, Mary, and Sarah) back from the dead. They were hanged in the late 1600s after being accused of committing witchcraft. Max, Allison, and Dani go on an adventure to rid the wicked siblings from Salem. 

In Hocus Pocus 2, Becca (the new main character) struggles through broken friendships and saving the world. During an old tradition, Becca and her friend accidentally bring the Sanderson sisters back, again. Winifred, Mary, and Sarah try to confront the new world and its strange ways, all while searching for a solution to make them live forever. 

In my opinion, the sequel was nothing compared to the original. Max Dennison and his sarcastic attitude, Dani Dennison’s charismatic personality, and Allison’s bravery; the three of them made the dream team for comedy and courage. In Hocus Pocus 2, Becca is just not interesting. She does not do anything memorable or special; nothing to separate her from the crowd. The acting of Bette Midler (Winifred), Kathy Najmy (Mary), and Sarah Jessica Parker (Sarah) was extraordinary, as they are professional actresses and have experience.

I cannot blame Whitney Peak (Becca) for being a subpar actress, she is new to the acting career. I am sure as Whitney Peak continues to pursue her career, she will improve. For now though, Hocus Pocus 2 struggled as a movie because she and her fellow newbies struggled to meet the standards set by the original Hocus Pocus.