An unsurprising number of 90s kids who consider themselves diehard fans of the original Hocus Pocus have been very vocal about their opposition to the sequel. And rightfully so, as sequels can indeed mess with the original canon if they aren’t done correctly. But if the Hocus Pocus 2 trailer featuring the real-life goddess Hannah Waddingham (Ted Lasso) promises anything, it’s that, at the very least, we’re getting some more memorable performances.
While there’s very little we know about the film’s premise, the trailer gives viewers a glimpse into the Sanderson sisters as teens, approached by Waddingham’s mysterious character (a raven/crow) stating that she’s been waiting for them. And if anyone else caught the eye on her ensemble, my best guess, and the most probable theory at the moment, is that she’ll somehow become part of The Book.
Bette Midler, Kathy Najimy, and Sarah Jessica Parker will reprise their roles as Winifred, Mary, and Sarah Sanderson, and Doug Jones will also return as Billy Butcherson. The film will also be starring Sam Richardson, Lilia Buckingham, Belissa Escobedo, Whitney Peak, Froy Gutierrez, Tony Hale, and more as fans journey back to Salem, Massachusetts.
There’s a lot at stake for a sequel that follows a classic original twenty-nine years later, but with Waddingham’s presence and the original iconic trio returning with the same ridiculous terror on their eyes, there’s more hope than if this were merely a remake, which, let’s be fully transparent here, no one wants. Hocus Pocus 2 will be directed by Anne Fletcher, which is promising considering her filmography features The Proposal and 27 Dresses, two personal favorites of mine.
Related Content: Disenchanted Trailer Brings Wickedness to the Enchanted World We Knew
Watch the Hocus Pocus 2 trailer below, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. The film premieres exclusively on Disney+ on September 30.