Over the past 20+ years, a Halloween film (that originally opened in July) has grown a cult following the likes of which few movies have ever experienced. Despite that, Hocus Pocus still doesn’t get the recognition that notable titles of its stature deserve.
Now best-selling author Aaron Wallace (The Thinking Fan’s Guide to Walt Disney World: Magic Kingdom) is setting out to correct that, announcing a new book that dives deeper into what has become an autumnal must-watch. Hocus Pocus in Focus: The Thinking Fan’s Guide to Disney’s Halloween Classic promises to examine every aspect of the movie — behind the scenes, between the lines, and beyond.
“Something has changed,” Wallace says. “Far from the forgotten relic it was destined to become, Hocus Pocus has taken its place alongside The Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter, and Home Alone — a bona fide classic that’s sure to stay alive for generations to come.”
The foreword to Hocus Pocus in Focus will be penned by actress Thora Birch who, in addition to playing Dani in the film, is known for her roles in Ghost World and American Beauty among others. Additionally Hocus Pocus writer and producer Mick Garris provides an afterword for the book detailing the creative process that turned a spooky children’s bedtime tale into a generational gem.
“Having Thora and Mick on board for this project means the world to me,” Wallace says. “I truly grew up with this movie — and with so much of their respective filmographies — so to have them taking a personal interest in my work now is beyond rewarding. As a Hocus Pocus fan myself, I know readers are going to be over the moon with the insight that Thora and Mick are sharing in this book for the very first time.”
Hocus Pocus in Focus: The Thinking Fan’s Guide to Disney’s Halloween Classic will debut this September with presales available on AaronWallaceOnline.com. Wallace is also set to release the next installment of his The Thinking Fan’s Guide to Walt Disney series looking at Epcot in December 2016.