Disclaimer: Contains spoilers!
Plot Summary: After their execution 300 years prior, three witches return to steal the souls of the children of Salem, Massachusetts.
Review: Although I do like this film, I have to admit, it seemed a lot better when it came out in '93. In one respect, I enjoy the Halloween look and Fall atmosphere of New England (despite filming taking place in California). On the other hand, the characters make incredibly stupid decisions, and there was way too much emphasis on "virgins" in a kids movie. And, unlike "The Monster Squad," they do not even address what a virgin is for an audience of, presumably, mostly children. That forces the parents into the awkward position of explaining it to their children, and we all know how much parents hate to raise their children! Fucking Disney.
Where the film shines is in the setting. I prefer my Halloween movies to play up the holiday with lots of trick-or-treaters running about; this movie does not let you down in that department. Similarly to "Jack-O," this night of festivities does not appear to end either which is perfect. Though...this might be the longest Halloween night in history. I mean, does 6 AM ever roll around? The story itself is decent, with a certain, cornball charm, and keeps you engaged with steady pacing. The comedic aspects are amusing enough as the actors do embrace their roles enthusiastically; the witches each have their own weird personality quirks to dazzle the senses. Watching the witches figure out modern technology can be fun too with gags that will surely have the kiddies laughing. Although it's not really a plus for everyone, the Allison character, played by Vinessa Shaw, was considered a major hottie for a time after this and "Ladybugs." Unfortunately, Sarah Jessica Parker's hotness didn't live up to my original image.
As for the faults that were annoying me now that I'm older...I have to start with the premise being either a plot hole or a huge ass contrivance. The witches are resurrected by some candle yet where did it come from? They just happen to leave it around on the off chance they were executed? They don't mention it when they're killed too--it simply becomes introduced out of nowhere. I get the feeling some kind of script edit is responsible for this oversight. Besides that, the witches turn Binx into an immortal cat who is indestructible...uhh...why couldn't they do the same to themselves? While on the subject, Binx being killed a few times, including getting run over by a bus, is a bit much for a kids movie; especially when he stays dead at the end. The romance subplot is painful to behold and beyond forced simply to cement that happy ending. The defeat of the witches was flat out stupid as they only had, arguably, minutes to steal a child's soul or die, yet, they pass over dozens of kids just to get Dani? Finally, what the hell constitutes a "child" to this movie? It would seem anyone under 18 is a kid, but the witches come from an era where you'd be married with a kid of your own by 14. I didn't realize Satan was honoring some modern legal definitions.
Am I overthinking this? Probably. Setting aside my complaints, this is an entertaining foray into family-oriented Halloween movies. It touches on enough of the right bases to keep you invested while never overstaying its welcome. The characters are unique and memorable despite not a lot of depth added to their plight. The story is a tad more adult than I would deem suitable for kids, but it shouldn't be that big of a deal. I do have an undying hatred of Disney, but, once in a while, I can appreciate their attempts to present a competent film. In fact, this is probably among the higher choices to select from when it comes to this holiday. Just don't forget it's a kids movie from the early '90s, and you should be golden.
Notable Moment: When Max gives Allison his number. Not bad, Max-baby, not bad at all.
Final Rating: 6/10
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