Fans of the 1998 cult classic Practical Magic are eagerly waiting for updates on the sequel, aptly titled Practical Magic 2. Recent insights from Nicole Kidman, who played Gillian Owens, indicate significant progress on this highly anticipated project. During the TIME Women of the Year event held recently in Los Angeles, Kidman revealed to Variety—in no uncertain terms—that the sequel is "moving ahead rapidly." Despite her enthusiasm, she playfully deflected questions about specifics, insisting, "You can ask Sandy," referring to her co-star Sandra Bullock who plays Sally Owens. Kidman humorously indicated she was somewhat out of the loop, saying, "I'm not answering anymore," which only added to the air of excitement around the project. She concluded her remarks with the charming note, "It just needs a little magic."
The sequel is set to be based on Alice Hoffman's The Book of Magic, which is the fourth installment of her Practical Magic series. This new tale picks up over a decade after the events of the original film, as Sally's children grapple with the mystical Owens family curse during their tumultuous transition to adulthood.
Original screenwriter Akiva Goldsman is back on board to pen the script, ensuring continuity with the film's innovative blend of whimsy and the darker elements of family legacy. Acclaimed producer Denise Di Novi is also returning to helm the project. Di Novi has previously expressed how important it is to retain the soul of the film, emphasizing the themes of sisterhood, acceptance, and the magic found in everyday life. She shared, "There’s magic in daily life, in love, in family, and sisterhood... we really want to honor all of it." Di Novi noted the joyous energy and beautiful themes of the original film, which still resonate with audiences today, particularly women.
After the departure of key Warner Bros. executives, there had been speculation as to whether projects like Practical Magic 2 would continue. Fortunately, it seems plans to create the sequel are intact. With the legacy of Practical Magic being as strong as it is, the studio appears determined to see the project through.
So, who else might audiences expect to see return? Both Kidman and Bullock are confirmed to reprise their iconic roles. Evan Rachel Wood, who portrayed Kylie, Sally's daughter, has been actively acting and could potentially return as well. The inclusion of other beloved characters, including the talented Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest, who played the Aunts, is still uncertain but possible, as both remain active in the industry.
While the production timeline remains unclear, the overall momentum for Practical Magic 2 continues to build. A fresh casting choice is on the horizon as Danish filmmaker Susanne Bier has entered talks to direct. Known for her work with Bullock on the 2018 Netflix thriller Bird Box, Bier brings considerable acclaim to the project.
The sequel's storyline aims to honor the original film's charm without excessive reinvention. Denise Di Novi warned against the common pitfall of sequels trying too hard to alter the original's vibe, stating, "I think the big mistake people make with sequels is when they kind of want to reinvent the wheel. We want to honor the first movie, which is so dear to so many fans."
Overall, the enthusiasm surrounding Practical Magic 2 is palpable. Kidman and Bullock's involvement, combined with the dedication of returning producers and writers, suggests fans of the original will be treated to a continuation of the beloved Owens sisters' adventures infused with the magic and spirit of the first film. While no official release date or filming schedule has been announced yet, the reassurance from key players involved brings hope to fans longing for enchanting updates. Keep your wands at the ready and stay tuned for more news on this wonderful return to the world of witchcraft and sisterly love!