Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without at least a few viewings of “Hocus Pocus,” and fans of the franchise can now add “Hocus Pocus 2” to their list for a fun and spooky double feature. While there’s nothing like the original “Hocus-Pocus,” the sequel manages to address some of the original’s flaws while adding new layers to the mythology behind the Sanderson sisters. But what if you’re Pocus-ed out and looking for something that else hits all the same quirky notes, but is still a little different? Or, what if you need another option for a spooky double feature?
It turns out there are plenty of fun movies with the same combination of hijinks and scary moments that are pitched perfectly to appeal to everyone. You don’t need tons of horror to make a great Halloween movie; these options are proof of that! They’re also perfect excuses to indulge in some autumnal nostalgia and to find a way to sprinkle a little magic back into your life. Ahead, we’ve rounded up a dozen of our favorite movies that, like “Hocus Pocus,” strike that fun balance between laughs and scares. Keep reading to discover your next watch for a fall night in.
– Additional reporting by Tasha Dowbachuk