The 1998 film Practical Magic, a cult favorite that encapsulated the charm of 90s witch-themed movies, is set to follow up with a long-awaited sequel titled Practical Magic 2. This original film, directed by Griffin Dunne, features sisters Gillian (Nicole Kidman) and Sally Owens (Sandra Bullock), who attempt to escape their family’s magical heritage. Their lives take a turn when Gillian’s abusive boyfriend is found dead, prompting the sisters to tap into their magical prowess to resurrect him before a suspicious detective uncovers the truth.
Despite being a major studio production with established stars, Practical Magic underperformed at the box office. Critics were not particularly kind to it, leading to its classification as a box-office bomb, as documented by Box Office Mojo. However, the film’s endearing qualities have kept it alive in the hearts of fans, spurring discussions about a sequel that has now officially materialized after over 25 years.
Quick Navigation
- Latest News on Practical Magic 2
- Confirmation of Practical Magic 2
- Casting Updates
- Storyline Insights
Latest News on Practical Magic 2
Director Selection in Progress
Recent updates indicate that a director is being sought for the sequel. While Griffin Dunne directed the original, Susanne Bier, known for her work on Netflix’s Bird Box, has been approached to take the helm. Bier has collaborated with Sandra Bullock on ‘Bird Box’ and teamed up with Nicole Kidman on HBO’s The Undoing as well as the upcoming The Perfect Couple. Although Bier has yet to officially sign on, discussions appear to be progressing towards a deal.
This would mark her first venture into feature films since the success of Bird Box in 2018.
Confirmation of Practical Magic 2
Release Expected in 2025
Both Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock are in discussions to reprise their beloved roles, although confirmation regarding the rest of the cast remains unannounced. Fortunately, Akiva Goldsman, the original screenwriter, is confirmed to return. Producer Denise Di Novi has suggested that work is already underway, aiming for a release in 2025, although a specific date has not yet been established. Susanne Bier is in the running to direct.
Casting Details
Returning Cast: Kidman & Bullock
The announcement of this sequel came as a delightful surprise. It was revealed that both Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock are in talks to return, which bodes well for the film’s legacy and reception. Bullock’s portrayal of Sally Owens—a character who prioritizes practicality over magical whims—coupled with Kidman’s free-spirited Gillian, offers a dynamic that fans eagerly anticipate revisiting.
There are no confirmed details about the supporting cast as of now. However, acclaimed actresses Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest, who portrayed the formidable aunts Frances and Jet respectively, might reprise their iconic roles, as both are still actively involved in acting. Furthermore, early roles played by Evan Rachel Wood as Sally’s daughter Kylie and Alexandra Artrip as Antonia hint at potential expanded roles in the sequel.
Confirmed Cast Members in Talks:
| Actor | Role in Practical Magic |
|---|---|
| Sandra Bullock | Sally Owens |
| Nicole Kidman | Gillian Owens |
Practical Magic 2 Story Insights
Potential Adaptations of Follow-Up Novels
Details about the sequel’s plot remain unconfirmed, but hints suggest it may adapt elements from Alice Hoffman’s subsequent novels. Among these, The Book of Magic seems the most promising source for inspiration, where Aunt Jet faces a critical health crisis, driving the Owens family on a quest that intertwines adventure and discovery as they seek to break a generational love curse and uncover a previously unknown brother.
Given the film’s recent announcement and its preliminary development, expectations should remain tempered, as more information about the narrative direction will likely emerge in the near future. Producer Denise Di Novi’s references to the novels indicate a possible blend of multiple storylines, preserving the enchanting essence of the original.
Leave a Reply