Nearly 30 years later, Practical Magic finds its real spell in sisterhood

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 07, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Warner Bros. Pictures

Nearly three decades after they first stepped into the magical world of the Owens sisters, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are back and this time, the strongest spell is family.

The stars reprise their roles as sisters Sally and Gillian Owens in “Practical Magic 2,” returning to a story that has grown from a 1998 fantasy film into a lasting celebration of sisterhood, resilience and female friendship.

For Bullock and Kidman, the reunion is more than a trip down memory lane. The sequel reflects how much both actresses and their characters have changed over nearly 30 years, bringing a deeper understanding of family, generational patterns and the strength passed from one generation of women to another.

The new story also widens the Owens family circle, with Joey King and Maisie Williams joining the cast as the next generation caught up in the family’s magical legacy. The returning aunts, played by Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest, further connect the sequel to the original film.

What began as a story about witches, curses and forbidden love has endured because its heart was never really about magic. It was about sisters who fight, forgive, protect and find their way back to each other.

Now, with Bullock and Kidman passing the story to a new generation, Practical Magic gets another chance to cast its spell, this time with nearly three decades of life, loss and sisterhood behind it.

Because some magic doesn’t fade with time. It grows with you.