Practical Magic 2 Review: Sequel Falls Short of Original's Charm but Sets Up Future Installments
The long-awaited sequel to Practical Magic, directed by Susanne Bier, reunites Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as the Owens sisters. Based on Alice Hoffman's novel, the film picks up after the original and follows Sally's attempt to protect her daughters from the family curse by erasing their memories of magic. While it may not recapture the original's enchantment, the movie provides a foundation for a planned trilogy.
The sequel draws from Hoffman's 2021 novel *The Book of Magic* and is helmed by Susanne Bier. It resumes shortly after the 1998 original, where Sally's partner Gary (Aidan Quinn) dies from the family curse, leading Sally to wipe her daughters' memories of magic.
Significant casting changes occurred, as Joey King and Maisie Williams replace the original actresses for Sally's daughters. The film deliberately lays groundwork for a trilogy, with Bullock teasing a potential third movie and expressing a desire to hand over the reins.
This sequel could reignite interest in the original film for nostalgic audiences, potentially boosting streaming numbers for the 1998 classic. It may also introduce the Owens family lore to a new generation of viewers, particularly through the recast younger characters. The planned trilogy could influence future studio decisions regarding legacy sequels, showing that established female-led franchises can sustain multi-film arcs. However, mixed reviews might temper box office expectations, affecting how studios approach similar long-delayed follow-ups.