Jamie Gooch, a Texas-based mother, has voiced concerns about Disney+’s Hocus Pocus 2, cautioning parents about potential harmful effects she believes the film may have on households.
The Film’s Popularity
The movie serves as a sequel to the 1993 fan-favorite, boasting a star-studded cast that includes Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy. They reprise their roles as the notorious Sanderson Sisters, witches from Salem.
As per recent data, Hocus Pocus 2 reigns supreme as the most-streamed film on Disney+ in the US shortly after its debut. While it’s garnered a respectable 6/10 on IMDb and a 65% on Rotten Tomatoes, the movie’s content has raised eyebrows for some, like Gooch.
Jamie Gooch’s Warning
In her conversation with KWTX, Gooch emphasized the potential negative repercussions of letting children watch the movie. She said, “While many see it as fantasy and harmless fun, there’s a chance it might cast unintended spells, bringing unforeseen disturbances into homes.”
“The narrative revolves around witches aiming to harvest children’s pure souls,” she stated. “One has to question the effects of such themes on young minds.”
Gooch’s Christian beliefs strongly influence her perspective. Her family has replaced Halloween celebrations with harvest festival observances for many years, given Halloween’s origins in the Gaelic festival, Samhain.
Her now-deleted Facebook post, highlighted by the Daily Mail, urged fellow parents to be guardians of their household and think twice before streaming the film. She argued that it’s crucial to protect children from potential spiritual vulnerabilities.
“Before streaming this movie, reflect upon the strength of your and your children’s mental fortitude,” she warned. “Beware of the sinister intentions that might emanate from your screens.”
Mixed Reactions
Gooch’s views attracted various responses online. Many critiqued her stance, pointing out that parental condemnation often sparks more interest in children. However, some echoed her sentiments, choosing to avoid such films and themes entirely.
In her discussion with KWTX, Gooch alluded to real-life scenarios influenced by film and television, though specific incidents weren’t detailed.
The Film’s Synopsis
Hocus Pocus 2 revisits the Sanderson sisters’ legend, witches from Salem who find themselves resurrected in modern-day Massachusetts, seeking vengeance fueled by a magical spellbook.