“Escape to Witch Mountain” introduces viewers to siblings Tia and Tony Malone, portrayed by Kim Richards and Ike Eisenmann, respectively. These orphaned twins possess mysterious psychic abilities but remain unaware of their true parentage. The plot thickens when attorney Lucas Deranian, played by Donald Pleasence, arrives at their orphanage under the guise of being their uncle, while actually scheming with his boss, Aristotle Bolt, played by Ray Milland. As the twins discover Bolt’s true intentions, they flee with only Tia’s cat Winkie, and along the way, they encounter Jason O’Day, an embittered widower portrayed by Eddie Albert, who becomes crucial to their journey of self-discovery.

The story continues in the sequel, “Return to Witch Mountain,” where Tia and Tony find themselves ensnared in human intrigue as Letha Wedge, played by Bette Davis, seeks to exploit their powers for her own advantage. The franchise expanded with two made-for-TV movies: the 1982 sequel “Beyond Witch Mountain” and a 1995 remake. Eventually, Disney decided to reimagine the series with a contemporary theatrical release, bringing in a surprising new star to the beloved saga.

The movie was followed by a sequel, “Return to Witch Mountain,” in which Tia and Tony become further entangled in the world of human machinations when Letha Wedge (Bette Davis) tries to use their powers for her own desires. Two made-for-TV movies followed — the 1982 sequel “Beyond Witch Mountain” and a 1995 remake — before Disney gave the film a modern theatrical do-over featuring an unexpected star.