Why Hocus Pocus is the Best Halloween Movie of all Time

It is that time of the year again. The weather changes, Starbucks brings back the Pumpkin Spice Latte, and the seasonal programming begins. But, for me, it really isn’t fall and the start of the holiday season until I have watched Hocus Pocus. I have watched this movie every year since it came out in 1993. (Thank you ABC Family for always playing it … repeatedly) No matter how many Pumpkin Spice Lattes I have had, which is inevitably a lot because I love them; I am not ready for Halloween until I have had the joy of watching this movie.

What could be better than watching the trials and tribulations of Max Dennison? Answer: Nothing could be better.

Below are my top 5 reasons why this movie is the best. 

1.       The little girl’s name is Dani

Okay, so this may not be a big deal to everyone out there. But, for me, it is huge. I never hear my name in movies. Dani in this movie has a cool older brother, gets to hang out with a cat that is actually a transfigured boy from the 17^th century, and gets to have an adventure with witches. Epic at any age! I am still jealous. Oh, the actress is Thora Birch. No kid was cooler in the 90s.

The only other Danielle/Dani from a move that I can think of is Danielle D’Barbarack (spelling?) from Ever After … but that is fodder for a whole other article.

2.       Amuck, amuck, amuck

Oh come on! Who doesn’t quote this movie on a daily basis? “Go to hell! Oh! I've been there, thank you. I found it quite lovely.” 

3.       There is a musical number

Not enough movies these days have musical numbers. And, I ask you, why not? I cannot be the only person who thinks this. Half the crap that comes out of Hollywood would be exponentially bettered with a little singing and dancing.

4.       And … Bette Midler is singing!

The only way to make a musical number better would be to include Bette Midler. Oh wait, they already did that. Thank you, Hocus Pocus.

5.       SJP rocks!

No matter how many SATC movies come out, this is my favorite Sarah Jessica Parker role of all time. She sings, she runs a muck, she is ditzy and hilarious.

Side note – 2^nd favorite SJP movie would have to be Girls Just Want To Have Fun. Trust me … rent it and you will love it.

And, on top of all that awesomeness, there is a talking cat, a friendly zombie named Billy, and the best use of salt I have ever seen.

So, my friends, stop whatever you are doing and watch this movie. Then go decorate for Halloween because no one likes a naked house. And then go get a Pumpkin Spice Latte because, well, why not?