Hocus Pocus (1993 film) made to the script to make the film more comedic and made two of its young protagonists into teenagers; however, production was stalled several times until 1992, when Bette Midler expressed interest in the script and the project immediately went forward. Midler, who plays the central antagonist of the film (originally written for Cloris Leachman), is quoted as saying that "Hocus Pocus" "was the most fun I'd had in my career up to that point". Leonardo DiCaprio was originally offered the lead role of Max, but declined it in order to pursue "What's Eating Gilbert Grape". Principal photography began on
Night and Day (Bette Midler song) Mardin's office at the Atlantic Recording Studios. Germaise asked Seeman if she had another copy and overnighted the demo to Arif Mardin who was in Los Angeles, producing Bette Midler's upcoming album. "Night and Day" was recorded by Bette Midler for her "Some People's Lives" album. It was produced by Arif Mardin, with Marc Shaiman serving as associate producer, and Joseph Jack Puig as the recording and mix engineer. It was arranged by Arif Mardin, Billie Hughes, and Joe Mardin. "Night and Day" is the second single from "Some People's Lives". It was released to adult contemporary radio and stayed