Practical Magic 2 Divides Critics With Mixed Early Reviews and Star Power

The original Practical Magic debuted in 1998 and, despite a lukewarm box office performance, built a passionate cult following over the years. The story of two witchy sisters, played by Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, resonated with audiences who appreciated its blend of fantasy, humor, and heart.

Calls for a sequel persisted for decades, fueled by the film's enduring popularity on home video and streaming platforms. After years of speculation, the sequel was finally greenlit, with both Bullock and Kidman returning to reprise their roles.

On September 8, 2026, the first reviews for Practical Magic 2 began to appear ahead of its theatrical release. Critics quickly expressed a range of opinions about the film's quality and its faithfulness to the original.

Mashable Tech gave the sequel high marks, calling it superior to the original and crediting the film's cult following for making the sequel possible. In contrast, TechRadar published a highly critical review, highlighting awkward dialogue and suggesting the sequel struggled to justify its existence.

/Film described the movie as a disjointed comedy with a weak script, while IndieWire Movies noted a fresh take on the witch's curse and praised the emotional performances of Bullock and Kidman. Other outlets, like Consequence of Sound, remarked that the sequel could not recapture the original's unique spark.

Forbes reported that reviews aggregated on Rotten Tomatoes were largely disappointing, with most critics not responding positively to the film. Rotten Tomatoes itself summarized the early consensus as a welcome reunion for fans that ultimately could not recreate the original's magic.

With reviews split, Practical Magic 2 stands at a crossroads. Some critics appreciate the film's emotional depth and the return of its stars, while others find fault with its script and execution. The film's ability to win over audiences remains uncertain as it prepares for its September 10 theatrical debut.

The sequel's reception among general viewers will soon become clear, potentially shaping its legacy and future prospects for the franchise.

The key question is how audiences will respond once the film is released in theaters. Early critical reactions have set expectations, but strong fan support could shift the narrative if the movie resonates with longtime followers of the original.