A Rocky Start, Then a Cult Revival
Nearly three decades after the original release, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman have a fresh perspective on 'Practical Magic.' The 1998 movie initially drew mixed critical reactions and only moderate commercial success, yet over time it gained a devoted following, especially among younger viewers who discovered it via social media. Now, the two Academy Award winners are set to reprise their roles as the magical Owens sisters in the upcoming sequel, scheduled for a September 10 theatrical debut, offering them an opportunity to reflect on the first film's complicated legacy and its surprising resurgence.[S1]
Both films draw from Alice Hoffman's novels: 'Practical Magic,' published in 1995, inspired the original, while her 2021 novel 'The Book of Magic' expands the Owens family's story and provides inspiration for the sequel.[S1]
Healing Old Wounds
Bullock recalls the original film's press junket as traumatic because the reception was harsh. She remembers being told the film was 'too much,' 'too witchy,' 'too many women,' and 'too many tones.' She now thinks the film may have needed time to 'marinate,' and she feels lucky to still be around to enjoy its rewards. About six years ago, she realized the film had been reappraised, and she let go of the shame she had harbored over the initial criticism.[S1]
Bullock believes the film's second life reflects a broader change in how the word 'witch' is perceived. She notes that 'witch' has historically had negative connotations, but now communities are reclaiming it with pride. For Kidman, the resurgence became personal as people began telling her that 'Practical Magic' was their favorite film of hers, which surprised her.[S1]
Building the Magic Again
As producers, Bullock and Kidman faced the practical challenges of making a legacy sequel on a budget. They rebuilt the Owens house on a London back lot as a full structure, unlike the temporary exterior shell used for the original. Bullock noted the tough fiscal climate and that they were not a big superhero film, so they didn't have the luxury of a large budget. Kidman added that they knew the responsibility of bringing it in at a certain price to avoid stress.[S1]
A New Generation of Witches
The follow-up shifts focus to the next generation of Owens women, with Joey King and Maisie Williams portraying Sally's daughters, Kylie and Antonia. King expresses gratitude for the opportunity to carry on the family's magical narrative, while producer Denise Di Novi, who worked on the original and gave King her first leading role in 'Ramona and Beezus,' notes that the new characters have the potential to sustain the franchise, hinting at possible future installments. Williams, too, is eager to delve deeper into the lore of 'The Book of Magic' in subsequent films.[S1]
