Why is this a cult classic?

Well, Home Alone is also sort of a cult classic. They're considered cult classics among people who grew up watching these movies so they have a certain place in many people's memories.

Hocus Pocus is cult classic because it was not a popular film with mainstream audiences and critics. It was a box office flop, but has gained it's fan base and success over the many years since its release for being both a good and bad film. It has a great atmosphere which is why it's a Halloween favorite and it's very quotable. Home Alone on the other hand, is the highest grossing comedy of all time. Definitely not a cult film or typical.


Hail to the king, baby.

I am 30, and currently watching Hocus Pocus.

Personally, I absolutely adored the movie as a young girl. I watched it frequently in the fall, and sporadically throughout the rest of the year.

As years went by, and I grew up to eventually have a family of my own, my love of Hocus Pocus has stayed strong. I enjoy every moment of the film just as much, if not more, as an adult.

It has stood the test of time as an enjoyable film, and it sparks nostalgic warm fuzzies.

I love watching my son (7) while we watch the movie. He loves it every bit as much as I do.

It's one of the few films that perfectly captures the mood and atmosphere of Halloween. I'm not sure why the studio decided to release it in the US in the summertime, no wonder it flopped at the box office. It has built up a large following thanks to television and VHS/DVD sales. Everyone I know enjoys it.

You keep on reminding me of a darkness only I can see

Is this really considered a cult film now? I know when it first came out it was met with mixed response and flopped at the box office (likely for being a Halloween movie released at the start of summer.)
However I hear people all over talk about this movie all the time and loving to watch it. I think it has too wide of a fan base anymore to be considered a cult film.

I think it's the definitive Halloween family movie- like A Christmas Story is for Christmas.

Because it's awesome.

Horror_Metal

It's just one of those things people who are my age (I'm pushing 30) grew up with, and still have a fondness for. It has held up pretty well over time to be honest. Not to mention the fanbase is growing due to this being aired over October. Critical reception doesn't matter as much as the passage of time.