The Art of Witchcraft: Bette Midler's Witch Characters as Works of Art

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Bette Midler conjuring as a witch is a topic that has captivated audiences for decades. From her iconic portrayal of Winifred Sanderson in the film "Hocus Pocus" to her live performances as the character in her concert tours, Midler has become synonymous with the image of a witch. Midler's ability to embody the essence of a witch comes from her incredible talent as a performer. Whether she is singing, dancing, or acting, she brings a certain otherworldly charm to her performances that is perfectly suited for the role of a witch. Her expressive face and powerful voice allow her to bring depth and complexity to her characters, even when they are playing off of the archetypal image of a witch. In "Hocus Pocus," Midler's performance as Winifred Sanderson is a standout.


The Emmy, Grammy, Tony and Golden Globe winner added that the sequel is due fall 2022 on Disney+.

Because one of her lovers had misbehaved himself with another woman, she changed him with one word into a beaver, because when that animal is afraid of being captured it escapes from its pursuers by cutting off its own genitals, and she wanted the same thing to happen to him since he had intercourse with another woman. But recent generations of children are more likely to have come across witches as figures of fun consider Sabrina the Teenage Witch or Hocus Pocus, in which Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy abduct children, resurrect dead lovers and brew potions with comic flair.

Bette Midler conjuring as a witch

In "Hocus Pocus," Midler's performance as Winifred Sanderson is a standout. She fully immerses herself in the role, capturing the comedic and wicked nature of the character with precision. Her physicality and vocal range add layers of complexity to the character, making Winifred a memorable and beloved witch.

Disney+ Sets ‘Hocus Pocus’ Sequel for 2022

Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy are back for the new installment.

Aaron Couch

May 20, 2021 9:58am
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Disney+ is officially conjuring up a new Hocus Pocus movie, with the streaming service announcing the sequel will be released in 2022. Disney+ also confirmed that The Proposal filmmaker Anne Fletcher is taking over directing duties from Adam Shankman, who previously was attached to direct and remains on as an executive producer.

Hocus Pocus 2 is a follow-up to the 1993 feature that starred Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy as three witches who were resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts, and who are bent on becoming immortal. All three are returning for the sequel, which begins production in the fall. The sequel sees three young women accidentally bring the Sanderson Sisters back to modern-day Salem. They must stop the child-hungry witches from causing a new kind of toil and trouble.

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“As heartbroken as I am that I won’t be able to direct my friends Bette, Sarah Jessica and Kathy in what is sure to be nothing short of a major event for Disney+ due to scheduling conflicts, I couldn’t be more pleased to be handing over the reins to Anne, who has brought so much laughter and joy into people’s lives with her previous work,” says Shankman, who is in production on Disenchanted for Disney. “I am still grateful and proud to help shepherd this ingenious project as executive producer alongside producer Lynn Harris, whom I have loved and admired as a colleague and friend since she helped get me the job choreographing Boogie Nights.”

Fletcher, a longtime friend of Shankman’s dating back to their time working as dancers on the 1990 Oscars telecast, said in her own statement, “Now more than ever, people need to laugh.”

“We should be laughing every day, and there is so much fun to be had with these three unbelievable women playing delicious characters from such a beloved film,” Fletcher continued. “I am so grateful to be able to play a part in bringing these witches back to life, and to be working with my friends at Disney again makes it all the more special. This is a movie for everyone, from the fans who grew up with the first film to the next generation of viewers, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Kenny Ortega helmed the first Hocus Pocus, which was viewed as a box office disappointment, earning $39 million, but becoming a cult classic on home entertainment.

Lynn Harris is serving as producer on Hocus Pocus 2. Executive producers include Ralph Winter and David Kirschner. Steven Haft is co-producer.

Like the witchy Sanderson sisters in Hocus Pocus who are forced to fly on vacuum cleaners and are baffled by buses, Horace’s hideous witches are at odds with their environment. Fleeing, Horace’s witches leave behind their wigs and teeth and drop their erotic spells – they are generally depicted as laughable characters.
Bette midler conjuring as a witch

Beyond her portrayal of a witch in "Hocus Pocus," Midler has continued to embrace the image in her live performances. She often incorporates witch-like elements into her costumes and stage designs, creating a fantastical atmosphere that transports audiences to a world of magic and intrigue. Her powerful voice and dynamic stage presence only add to the mystique of her witch-like persona. Despite her ability to conjure the image of a witch, it's important to note that Bette Midler is merely playing a character. She is a talented actress and performer who has the ability to bring any role to life, including that of a witch. Her ability to captivate audiences as a witch is a testament to her skill and versatility as a performer. In conclusion, Bette Midler's portrayal of a witch is a testament to her incredible talent as a performer. Whether she is conjuring the image of Winifred Sanderson in "Hocus Pocus" or embracing the character in her live performances, Midler brings a certain charm and mystique to the role of a witch. Despite the fantastical nature of her performances, it's important to remember that she is merely playing a character and showcasing her immense skill as an actress and singer..

Reviews for "The Talented Sorceress: Bette Midler's Witchcraft Skills"

1. John - 2 stars
I was really disappointed with Bette Midler's performance as a witch in this movie. I found her acting to be over-the-top and exaggerated, making it difficult for me to take her character seriously. Additionally, the plot was weak and predictable, lacking any real depth or originality. Overall, I was underwhelmed by this film and wouldn't recommend it to others.
2. Sarah - 1 star
I am a huge fan of Bette Midler, so I was excited to see her in the role of a witch. However, I found her portrayal to be cartoonish and unbelievable. The character lacked any sort of depth or development, making it difficult for me to invest in her story. The film also seemed to rely heavily on cheap humor and special effects, rather than focusing on a compelling narrative. Overall, I was extremely disappointed with this movie and felt it was a waste of my time.
3. Michael - 2 stars
I was expecting a captivating and thrilling witch story with Bette Midler in the lead role, but unfortunately, this film fell short of my expectations. The story lacked coherence and seemed to jump from one scene to another without any meaningful connection. Bette Midler's performance appeared forced and unnatural, making it difficult for me to connect with her character. Overall, I was left unimpressed by this movie and wouldn't recommend it to others.
4. Jessica - 1 star
I couldn't help but feel bored throughout this entire movie. Bette Midler's portrayal of a witch felt cliché and uninspired. The plot was predictable and lacked any originality, with no real surprises or twists. The dialogue was also subpar, making it difficult for me to stay engaged in the story. Overall, I was let down by this film and wouldn't recommend it to anyone looking for an exciting witch-themed movie.

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