'Practical Magic 2' May Have 92% on RT, but It Still Can't Recreate the Original's Spell

The return of a cult classic always stirs up mixed feelings: fans yearn to see their beloved characters on screen again, but there's also the risk that the sequel will pale in comparison to the original.

This is precisely what happened with Practical Magic 2, the sequel to the 1998 movie of the same name, which failed to recapture the magic of the original.

What Is 'Practical Magic 2' About?

Sally and Gillian Owens are witch sisters cursed by an unusual spell. An ancestor who was heartbroken cast a terrible enchantment upon the entire family: every man the Owens women fall in love with meets a tragic end.

In the first movie, it seemed as if the sisters had broken the curse, but the sequel reveals that the fatal mark remains. After her second husband dies, Sally decides to cast a spell on her daughters, Kylie and Antonia, to make them forget about magic.

Years later, however, it becomes clear that the ruse failed – the young women remain in danger. The Owens family comes into possession of a mysterious book that has the potential to either lift the curse or summon destructive dark forces.

'Practical Magic 2' Lacks the Playfulness and Charisma of the Original

Practical Magic 2 has lost the spark that made the original so charming. The first film was chaotic, but in a good way: events unfolded in fits and starts, yet it felt natural, fun, and appealing, perfectly matching the story's whimsical spirit.

The sequel attempts to dazzle with mysteries, but the surprises lack the same boldness. The steady but uninspired narrative delivers flat magic tricks that simply fail to captivate as they once did.

Compared to the original, the sequel feels more safe and predictable, even with the introduction of a new villain who wields dark magic.

While everything seems to be on the right track, that old sense of mischief is missing – there's a feeling that you're witnessing a polished imitation rather than genuine magic.

'Practical Magic 2' Has Its Strengths, but They Aren't Enough to Save the Day

It can't be said that Practical Magic 2 is devoid of merit. The central quartet recaptures the playful warmth of the original: Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock, along with Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing as the colorful aunts, provide humor when needed and deliver genuine emotional depth.

Joey King, Maisie Williams, and Lee Pace infuse the story with new passion and intriguing layers. The plot offers compelling mysteries, though the introduction of the main villain, whose identity was kept secret for so long, feels rushed and superficial.

Director Susanne Bier endeavors to recapture the original magic, preserving the atmosphere of a small, enchanted town – even the song "Coconut" makes a return.

Despite the surprises it holds for fans, Practical Magic 2 remains merely a charming but unnecessary addition, quietly casting its spells in the shadow of the original.

What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Practical Magic 2'?

• Practical Magic 2 has 39% from critics and 92% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 6.4/10.

• On Letterboxd, Practical Magic 2 scored 3.0/5.0.

Where to Watch 'Practical Magic 2'?

Practical Magic 2 is currently playing in theaters.