Enchanting Yet Confounding
As Halloween approaches, Practical Magic resurfaces to capture our attention once more. This quirky 1998 film, featuring the iconic pairing of Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock, has garnered a reputation as both a nostalgic favorite and a guilty pleasure. Fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming sequel, a testament to its lasting charm.
Let's Break Down the Spell
The original movie, adapted from Alice Hoffman's novel, showcases the Owens sisters: Gillian (Kidman) and Sally (Bullock). It explores themes of love, magic, and familial ties while captivating audiences with its autumnal aesthetics and campy humor.
“What's a 'good-bad' movie? It's the kind that gets a laugh, evoking both groans and grins, never taking itself too seriously.”
The Allure of Cottagecore
The backdrop—the picturesque Massachusetts homestead—creates the ultimate cottagecore dream. From creaky floors to herb-filled greenhouses, the Owens' residence is a character in itself. It's a veritable Instagrammable haven that makes you want to brew potions yourself.
The Sisterly Bond
Kidman and Bullock's chemistry is palpable, embodying the unbreakable bond of sisterhood. They are entirely relatable, and their camaraderie distracts from the film's absurd narrative tangents.
Music That Moves
The film's soundtrack deserves a shoutout, featuring the likes of Stevie Nicks and Elvis Presley. Their songs weave seamlessly into the scenes, adding a layer of enchantment to the already whimsical plot.
But Wait, There's More
Why It Falls Short
Despite its magical elements, Practical Magic grapples with problematic tropes. Critics initially dismissed it as “bouncy and bubble-brained,” and while its overwhelmingly female cast suggests female empowerment, the narrative often revolves around men.
The film attempts to celebrate sisterhood, yet its plot frequently devolves into a melodrama revolving around male relationships, leaving viewers questioning the authenticity of its feminist messaging.
A Goblet of Contradictions
Sure, the movie is loaded with plot inconsistencies. One minute, the sisters grapple with the prospect of murder, and the next, they bury a body with a comical nonchalance that defies logic. Yet, acknowledging its chaotic charm perhaps heightens its appeal, inviting fumbling conflicting emotions from viewers. Embracing the absurdity amplifies its endearing qualities.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
As we dust off our broomsticks this Halloween, let's celebrate the bewitching blend of charm and chaos that is Practical Magic. Its cult status continues to grow, embodying a nostalgic echo of the magic we find in film—where creativity and culture collide, flaws and all. Perhaps that's why this film remains a beloved Halloween classic, right alongside candy corn and ghost stories.
Source reference: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/10/29/movies/practical-magic-halloween-kidman-bullock.html
