Adam Shankman is set to direct “Hocus Pocus 2” for Disney+, an individual with knowledge of the project told TheWrap.
“Workaholics” writer and co-producer Jen D’Angelo wrote the screenplay, while Lynn Harris will produce the film. Original “Hocus Pocus” cast members Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy are not attached, but the studio is negotiating their involvement as to not reboot the first film.
“Hocus Pocus” followed three witch sisters who were cursed in Salem in 1693 but were resurrected 300 years later by a boy, his sister and the boy’s love interest. While the film wasn’t a box office success and only earned $39 million worldwide, it has become a cult classic, especially for Halloween time.
Shankman is currently in pre-production on Disney’s sequel to “Enchanted,” which will be titled “Disenchanted.” Whether “Hocus Pocus 2” or “Disenchanted” will be shot first is currently unclear.
Shankman’s directing credits include “What Men Want,” “Rock of Ages,” “Bedtime Stories” and “Hairspray.” His producing credits include “Step Up,” “Step Up 2: The Streets,” “17 Again,” “The Last Song” and “Going the Distance.”
He is represented by UTA, ID Public Relations and Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern.
Variety first reported the news.