Part 2 Hocus Pocus 1 and 2

10/29/24 • 19 min

3 Listeners

Sparrows Under Review Podcast -“Hocus Pocus” (1993 vs. 2022)

Hosts: Stacey and JR

In this Halloween-themed episode of Sparrows Under Review, Stacey and JR conjure up a spirited discussion on Disney’s Hocus Pocus and its long-awaited sequel. They break down the magic (and the mayhem) of both films, discussing why Hocus Pocus (1993) became a cult classic and how Hocus Pocus 2 (2022) stacks up.

Key Discussion Points:

•Hocus Pocus (1993): Stacey and JR explore the original film’s unique charm, memorable characters, and its place as a staple of 90s Halloween nostalgia. They discuss the unforgettable performances of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the Sanderson Sisters, who brought humor and fright to a generation of fans.

•Hocus Pocus 2 (2022): With modern effects and fresh faces, the sequel introduces the Sanderson Sisters to a new generation. Stacey and JR review the updated story, new cast members, and whether the film captures the spirit of the original. Both hosts weigh in on how Hocus Pocus 2 balances fan service with a contemporary twist, comparing the sequel’s humor, scares, and heart.

•Comparing Themes & Tone: They discuss how the two films approach Halloween and witchcraft in different ways, with Hocus Pocus (1993) capturing a darker yet whimsical tone, and Hocus Pocus 2 leaning into a more family-friendly, upbeat vibe.

•Nostalgia Factor vs. Fresh Perspective: Stacey and JR debate if Hocus Pocus 2 successfully taps into nostalgia while also standing on its own. They share their thoughts on the return of the Sanderson Sisters, the updated costumes and effects, and whether or not the sequel lives up to the original’s legacy.

Final Verdict: Though both hosts agree that Hocus Pocus (1993) holds a unique magic, they find themselves split on the sequel — with some moments delighting and others missing the mark.

Join Stacey and JR as they decide if the Sanderson Sisters have cast a spell that will last another 30 years!

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Sparrows Under Review Podcast -“Hocus Pocus” (1993 vs. 2022)

Hosts: Stacey and JR

Key Discussion Points:

Final Verdict: Though both hosts agree that Hocus Pocus (1993) holds a unique magic, they find themselves split on the sequel — with some moments delighting and others missing the mark.

Join Stacey and JR as they decide if the Sanderson Sisters have cast a spell that will last another 30 years!

Get bonus content on Patreon

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

“The Witches” (1990 vs 2020)

2 Recommendations

Sparrows Under Review Podcast - Episode [#]: “The Witches” (1990 vs 2020)

Hosts: Stacey and Jr

In this episode of Sparrows Under Review, Stacey and JR dive into a head-to-head comparison of two adaptations of Roald Dahl’s The Witches — the original 1990 film and the 2020 remake. Both hosts share their candid thoughts on what worked and what didn’t in each version.

Key Discussion Points:

•The Witches (1990): Featuring Anjelica Huston as the terrifying Grand High Witch, Stacey and JR highlight the film’s chilling tone and practical effects that made it a childhood horror staple. They also discuss the darker, grittier atmosphere that stays true to Dahl’s original book.

•The Witches (2020): Despite a talented cast, including Anne Hathaway and Octavia Spencer, the hosts agree that the modern remake lacked the unsettling magic of its predecessor. While they acknowledge the humor and heart brought by Spencer, Hathaway’s over-the-top portrayal and reliance on CGI left both Stacey and JR feeling that the film didn’t live up to its potential.

•Comparing Practical Effects vs. CGI: The hosts explore how the 1990 film’s practical effects created a more visceral experience, whereas the 2020 version leaned too heavily on CGI, which diminished its impact.

•Tone and Atmosphere: Stacey and JR note the shift in tone between the two films, with the 1990 adaptation embracing a more haunting and suspenseful feel, while the 2020 version opted for a family-friendly approach that some may find less impactful.

Final Verdict: Both Stacey and JR agree that The Witches (1990) outshines the 2020 version, despite the star power in the latter. They argue that the timeless charm and spookiness of the original remain unmatched.

Be sure to tune in for a nostalgic trip back to one of Roald Dahl’s most beloved — and scariest — stories!

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Next Episode

Venom 3: The Last Dance and Its Place in the Sony Spider-Verse

2 Recommendations

Episode Title: Venom 3: The Last Dance and Its Place in the Sony Spider-Verse

Episode Description:

In this action-packed episode of Sparrows UnderReview, hosts Jr Sparrow and Stacey Parsons tackle Venom 3: The Last Dance and its potential impact on the Sony Spider-Verse. With Tom Hardy back in the symbiote suit for a third outing, fans are buzzing with excitement, but what does this final chapter mean for Venom and Sony’s broader plans for a cinematic universe?

Jr and Stacey take a deep dive into the Venom franchise so far, discussing its evolution from gritty anti-hero origins to the humor-infused, chaotic spectacle it has become. They’ll explore how The Last Dance could bring Eddie Brock’s story full circle, and what we can expect from the character arc of Venom himself. Will this third installment give fans the high-stakes showdown they’re craving, and how will it set the stage for Sony’s future plans with other Spider-Verse characters?

They’ll also explore the larger Sony Spider-Verse, touching on films like Morbius and the upcoming Kraven the Hunter, and speculate on whether Venom 3 might finally introduce a crossover with Spider-Man. Could this movie be the connective tissue that bridges Sony’s characters with the MCU? Jr and Stacey weigh in on rumors, share their favorite fan theories, and discuss the potential for an epic team-up—or clash—between Venom and Spider-Man.

Topics Covered:

•The journey of Venom as a character and franchise up to this third film

•What “The Last Dance” could signify for Eddie Brock and the symbiote

•Sony’s vision for the Spider-Verse and how Venom 3 fits into it

•Speculations on potential crossovers with Spider-Man and other characters

•How Venom has redefined the anti-hero genre and what fans can expect next

Why You’ll Love This Episode:

This episode is perfect for Venom enthusiasts, Spider-Man fans, and anyone who loves keeping up with comic book movie universes. Jr and Stacey bring their signature insights and humor as they break down the possibilities for Venom 3, its plot potential, and what this means for Sony’s ambitious Spider-Verse. If you’re curious about the future of Venom, possible Spider-Man tie-ins, or just want to hear a fun discussion on what “The Last Dance” might bring, this episode is a must-listen!

Prepare for an intense deep dive into Venom 3: The Last Dance and Sony’s growing Spider-Verse! Enjoy the show!

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