[REVISION HISTORY]

Practical Magic 2 release and critical reception updates

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2026-09-28 16:25 UTC → 2026-09-30 19:39 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Following its release in September 2026, ‘Practical Magic 2’ has demonstrated a significant divide between critical and audience reception. While critics have largely panned the film—with Rotten Tomatoes scores hovering between 32% and 39% and Metacritic scores in the 30% to 45% range—audiences have responded much more favorably. The film holds a 93% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and earned a B+ CinemaScore. Directed by Susanne Bier, the sequel stars Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as the Owens sisters. The plot expands the original universe beyond Massachusetts, following Sally Owens as she attempts to distance her daughters, Kylie and Antonia, from the family curse. The new cast includes Joey King as Kylie, Maisie Williams as Antonia, Lee Pace as Professor Ian, and Xolo Maridueña as Gideon. Some reviewers noted that the film sacrifices the “campy whimsy of the original in favor of a darker, more supernatural tone,” while others criticized a “flatter storyline” and the narrative decision to reveal the death of the original character Gary Hallett. In Brazil, reviews noted the film balances sweet and dark elements, though some suggested the development of the younger generation could have been “more robust.” Commercially, the sequel performed strongly despite early reports of underperformance. It claimed the top spot at the North American box office during its opening weekend, earning approximately $30 million and unseating ‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ after its six-week run. The film’s worldwide opening total reached approximately $46 million, including $16 million from international markets. Produced on a reported budget of $75 million, the project continues to leverage the nostalgia of the original’s dedicated fanbase. During the film's promotion, Sandra Bullock dedicated the project to her sister, Gesine, calling her her “very own North Star.”

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