National Film Vault

FILM NOTES

Hocus Pocus was released by Walt Disney Pictures in July 1993, directed by Kenny Ortega. Though it performed modestly at the box office during its theatrical run, the film found a devoted second life through home video and cable television, becoming a genuine seasonal touchstone for generations of Halloween audiences. Its blend of comedy, light horror, and practical period costuming has kept it in continuous cultural conversation for over three decades, making original 35mm material from the production increasingly sought after by collectors.

This cell, titled Winifred "Winnie" Sanderson, presents three consecutive frames from a single continuous shot featuring Winifred Sanderson mid-smile, dressed in her elaborate period witch costume complete with ornate headpiece and pearl and bead detailing against a dark interior background. The sequential nature of the frames offers a rare glimpse into the rhythm of a performance captured on original camera negative stock.