The sequel to the beloved film fails to recapture the charm of the original, according to Variety's review.
The recently released sequel, titled ‘Practical Magic 2’, has received varied feedback from critics. Announced by Variety on September 8, 2026, the film stars Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman and is directed by Susanne Bier. It arrives nearly 30 years after the original 1998 film, which became a cult classic over the years. However, initial reviews suggest that this follow-up does not quite succeed in casting the same spell.
According to Variety, the film attempts to revisit the successful elements of its predecessor but ultimately fails to address its flaws. The review describes ‘Practical Magic 2’ as "cumbersome and overlong", echoing the nearly three-decade gap between both films. Critics have noted that while the sequel tries to leverage nostalgia, it risks alienating viewers by not enhancing the original’s shortcomings.
Bullock reprises her role as Sally Owens, an increasingly cautious member of the Owens family, while Kidman returns as her sister Gillian. The plot follows Sally as she aims to protect her daughters from a generations-old curse by casting a spell that makes them forget their family’s magical legacy. The film explores themes of sisterhood and familial bonds, much like the original, but strains under a longer runtime of 130 minutes, making the narrative feel stretched and less engaging.
While Bullock and Kidman draw from their original performances, critics suggest there may be little growth in their characters since the first film. Variety highlights Joey King as a standout with her portrayal of Sally’s daughter Kylie, effectively capturing the emotional weight of young love complicated by newfound magical abilities. However, other characters, notably Maisie Williams, receive less favorable attention, suggesting they are underutilized in this sequel.
The review concludes that despite the film's attempts to evoke nostalgia and entertain younger audiences, it may not resonate with everyone. The lighthearted themes of female empowerment and sisterhood present in both films continue to attract a fan base, but ‘Practical Magic 2’ appears trapped between a desire to honor the past and the need to innovate for modern viewers. Fans of the original may find enjoyment in the reunion of familiar characters, but the pacing and drawn-out plot may disappoint.
As ‘Practical Magic 2’ enters the market, the overall response indicates that legacy sequels may face challenges in living up to their predecessors. While established stars like Bullock and Kidman aim to deliver a beloved experience, the complexities of evolving storytelling must match audience expectations. The film highlights ongoing conversations about the effectiveness of revisiting beloved narratives in film, reminding viewers that sometimes, the best way to cherish a story is to remember it as it was.
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