Cast
View AllCassandra Peterson
as Host - Elvira, Mistress of the Dark
Bette Midler
as Winifred Sanderson
Kathy Najimy
as Mary Sanderson
Sarah Jessica Parker
as Sarah Sanderson
Glenn Close
as Cruella de Vil
Doug Jones
as Billy Butcherson
Billy Crystal
as Miracle Max
George Lopez
as Bargain Book
Jamie Lee Curtis
as Jamie Lee Curtis
Tiffany Haddish
as Tiffany Haddish
Todrick Hall
as Seyance
Jennifer Hudson
as Jennifer Hudson
Michael Kors
as Costume Chief Justice
Sarah Silverman
as Sarah Silverman
John Stamos
as The Master
Crew
Director
- Kyra Elise Gardner
- Seanne Farmer
Writer
- Eric Kornfeld
- Bonnie McFarlane
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
In Search of the Sanderson Sisters: A Hocus Pocus Hulaween Takeover represents a fascinating example of TV Movie/Comedy/Documentary/Music cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Kyra Elise Gardner brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2020, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of In Search of the Sanderson Sisters: A Hocus Pocus Hulaween Takeover took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 85 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 140 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 53 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2020, when this film is released:
- Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While In Search of the Sanderson Sisters: A Hocus Pocus Hulaween Takeover shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Land Without Bread, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, In Search of the Sanderson Sisters: A Hocus Pocus Hulaween Takeover subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like It Girl and Preternatural explore similar territory, In Search of the Sanderson Sisters: A Hocus Pocus Hulaween Takeover stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 30, 2020
- Runtime: 1h 25m