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Hocus Pocus: Bomb to Cult Classic
14 Oct
Summary
- Hocus Pocus initially bombed at the box office.
- Disney Channel airings made it a cult hit.
- A sequel was released in 2022 and another is coming.
Released in July 1993, Disney's Hocus Pocus initially failed to capture audiences, bombing at the box office with a $40 million gross against its $28 million production budget. Vinessa Shaw, who starred as Allison, reflected on the film's initial theatrical performance, describing it as a disappointment.
Shaw noted that the movie was critically overlooked, especially being released in the summer alongside Jurassic Park and not timed for its natural Halloween appeal. However, the film found a second life through persistent airings on the Disney Channel and frequent rentals, eventually cultivating a significant cult following.
This resurgence in popularity decades later led to the release of Hocus Pocus 2 in 2022. The momentum continues as Disney confirmed Hocus Pocus 3 is in development, with original cast members like Bette Midler teasing positive script developments.
