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Hocus Pocus 2

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General Review

Parent's Guide to Hocus Pocus 2

Hocus Pocus 2 is a fantasy comedy film that serves as a sequel to the beloved 1993 classic. It brings back the infamous Sanderson Sisters, three eccentric witches, who are accidentally resurrected in modern-day Salem. The narrative centers on a new trio of high school students who must unite to prevent the witches from unleashing their dark magic and causing chaos on Halloween night. The film aims to capture the nostalgic charm of the original while introducing contemporary elements and themes of friendship, sisterhood, and female solidarity. The movie carries a PG rating and is generally intended for audiences of pre-teens, teenagers, and adult fans of the first film. It maintains a balance between spooky fun and comedic antics, but parents should note the significant presence of witchcraft and occult themes, some suggestive humor, mild instances of fantasy violence, and displays of disrespectful behavior. The pervasive magical elements, both lighthearted and dark, are central to the plot and may be a key consideration for families with particular religious or moral viewpoints.

Things to Consider

High2

Witchcraft & Occult

Witchcraft and occult themes are central, explicit, and pervasive throughout the film. The plot revolves entirely around dark magic, spellcasting, rituals, and the explicit portrayal of the Sanderson Sisters as evil beings who worship Satan.

The Sanderson Sisters are unequivocally depicted as evil witches who 'worship Satan' and utilize 'dark magic' with the goal of 'destroy[ing] all of Salem's citizens' and consuming children's souls. The protagonists, Becca and Izzy, perform a 'ritual for blessings' involving an invocation to the pagan 'Triple Goddess' (Maiden, Mother, and Crone) and light a Black Flame Candle, which resurrects the witches. A magic shop, owned by Gilbert, sells 'replica occult items and New Age products, such as crystals,' and Gilbert is described as 'practically worshipping the Sanderson Sisters.' The witches actively seek to complete a powerful spell that requires the 'blood of their enemy,' leading to Winifred nicking Cassie's neck for a drop of blood.

Anti-Christian Themes

The film's core premise and actions of its central antagonists directly conflict with Christian tenets. This includes explicit references to Satan worship by the witches, the use of dark magic, and frequent irreverent use of God's name.

Would these 2 concerns matter to your family?

Get a report based on your values — not generic ratings.

Medium6
LGBTQ & Gender IdentityViolenceRomance and Sexual ContentProfanityScary & Intense ContentDisrespect & Rebellion
Low1
Substance Use

Additional Context

Best For Ages

Ages 9-10 and up. The film is rated PG for "action, macabre/suggestive humor and some language." While much of the content is presented with comedic intent, the central and pervasive themes of dark witchcraft, explicit discussions of virginity, frequent misuse of God's name, and potentially unsettling fantasy violence may be more suitable for children with a higher level of maturity and discernment.

Good to Know

Hocus Pocus 2 largely maintains the tone and themes of its predecessor, amplifying some of the occult elements. While it aims for comedic scares, the pervasive nature of witchcraft and the dark intentions of the Sanderson Sisters are central to the plot. Parents should be prepared for discussions surrounding paganism, the occult, and implied sexual humor. The film's messaging on friendship and female solidarity is positive, but it is set within a morally complex framework.

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