The Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman miracle with Practical Magic
It has become HBO’s most-watched title 28 years after the release of the original film
Almost 30 years later, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman step back into the roles of Sally and Gillian Owens. The protagonists of a 1998 film return with a second installment that aims to recapture the spirit almost 28 years later in theaters . Despite not succeeding initially, it eventually became a cult title over the years.
The premiere, however, has sparked divided opinions. While some viewers have enthusiastically welcomed the reunion of the Owens sisters and all the nods to the original film, much of the criticism holds that the sequel leans too heavily on nostalgia and does not fully recapture the magic of the first installment.
"The chemistry between Bullock and Kidman remains the main draw
We are talking, of course, about ‘ Practical Magic’, which has recently become the most-watched title on HBO Max . Regarding the second installment, released in theaters this September, one of the aspects that generates the most consensus is precisely the return of its two protagonists. The connection between Bullock and Kidman continues to work, and their scenes together are, for several critics, the best part of the film. The movie also brings back Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest as the eccentric aunts Franny and Jet.
The story also introduces a new generation of characters, including Sally's daughters, played by Joey King and Maisie Williams. The plot once again revolves around the curse that haunts the Owens family and that once again threatens to change the fate of its members.
But that is precisely the difference between critics and fans. For those who grew up with the 1998 film, reconnecting with the Owens sisters, their house, their spells, and some of their most recognizable elements may be enough to turn the movie into a nostalgic experience.
"Practical Magic 2" thus arrives with a complicated mission: to continue a story that over time acquired a status it never had upon its release. It may not have managed to win over all the critics, but it remains to be seen whether audiences will end up turning this sequel into a new cult classic.
