Despite being initially mocked, the 1998 movie Practical Magic has worked its spell on audiences lately, winning over hearts. Yet, it’s a head-scratcher, how a movie featuring both Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, and a concoction of sisterly bonds and magic mishaps, missed the mark for some.
Alice Hoffman, the creative mind behind the 1995 novel, on which this movie was based, spilled the beans. Critics just didn’t give it the fair shake it deserved. So, while the movie didn’t exactly hit the bullseye at first, it’s definitely casting a charm that’s hard to resist now.
Why Practical Magic Failed Upon Its Release Despite Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock’s Star Power Together
Practical Magic, released in 1998, revolves around the Owens sisters, Sally played by Sandra Bullock, and Gillian played by Nicole Kidman, who are raised by their aunts in a family with a long history of witchcraft. The sisters possess magical abilities, but their powers come with a curse, any man they fall in love with is doomed to an untimely death.
Despite their attempts to lead normal lives, they find themselves entangled in love, tragedy, and the consequences of their family’s past. The film balanced themes of sisterhood, love, and the power of family bonds, all in all, a pretty fun watch.
Alice Hoffman, the mind behind the novel, revealed her thoughts explaining, that Practical Magic was ahead of its time, which is perhaps why it failed to resonate with that audience. Another reason why the film has found a newfound love and appreciation among audiences today. In an interview with The New York Post, Hoffman explained,
When that book came out and the film came out, really, there wasn’t such an openness to magic, especially women in their respective roles. So it wasn’t considered literature. People heard that and weren’t as welcoming as they might be.
I think that has really changed now, and I think magic is everywhere. And I think you read more and see more about women who are friends and sisterhood and sisters. It wasn’t a time when that was very kind of current and popular
Furthermore, the movie, primarily targeted towards the female demographic, failed to impress critics, resulting in scathing reviews.
And I think that’s one of the reasons when the film came out, it didn’t do that well because the critics were not very kind to it. And I think that was basically the reason. They weren’t interested in anything a lot of women are interested in.
It was kind of a slow buildup, I’m so glad, especially for Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, because I feel like they took a chance with it and and I feel like it paid off.
Hoffman expresses gratitude and admiration for the two actresses who took a chance on the project, acknowledging that despite its initial failure, everything ultimately fell into place for them.
Practical Magic 2 is Coming Sooner Than You Think!
Celebrating its 26th anniversary this year, the beloved fantasy film might just be gearing up for a sequel. On Monday, June 10, the official Warner Bros. Pictures Instagram account delighted fans with confirmation of the sequel’s plans.
Their announcement ignited excitement across social media platforms. The caption stated,
It’s official! Practical Magic 2 is in development and coming soon.
The main leads, Kidman and Bullock, are currently in negotiations to bring it all together. Though not officially confirmed, fans are optimistic that they will return for another round. Details on the next film’s plot, cast, and release date remain under wraps, leaving fans eager to see what’s in store.
Practical Magic is streaming on Max.
