For Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, ‘Practical Magic 2’ heals old wounds

Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman have transformed their perspective on the 1998 film "Practical Magic" over the past 28 years. Initially, the romantic comedy received mixed reviews and struggled at the box office. However, it has since become a cult favorite, embraced by a new generation through social media. The two Oscar winners are set to return to their roles as witchy sisters Sally and Gillian Owens in the sequel, "Practical Magic 2," which will be released on September 10.

The film is based on Alice Hoffman's novels, with the original film inspired by "Practical Magic" published in 1995 and the sequel informed by her 2021 novel, "The Book of Magic." Bullock recalls the challenges faced during the promotional push for the original film, which received harsh criticism for being "too much" and "too witchy."

She believes the film needed time to marinate, and it eventually found its audience. The sequel aims to reclaim the word "witch" and reflect a broader change in societal attitudes. Kidman is personally touched by the resurgence of the film, as people have started to recognize it as her favorite among her films. The producers faced budget constraints while recreating the iconic Owens house, opting for a full structure built on a London backlot instead of the temporary exterior used in the original.

The new generation of Owens women, played by Joey King and Maisie Williams, are excited to continue the story and expand on the original characters.