Image Source: The New York Times
Practical Magic 2 is winning over moviegoers in a surprising clash between critics and audiences. While the long-awaited fantasy sequel has received a modest 36% Tomatometer score, it has earned an impressive 92% Popcornmeter rating from audiences, according to Rotten Tomatoes.
The response suggests that fans were ready to return to the Owens family, the charming Victorian home, and the emotional world of sisterhood and spell-casting. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman reprise their beloved roles as sisters Sally and Gillian Owens, nearly three decades after the original film arrived in theaters.
Practical Magic 2 Delivers a Powerful Audience Reaction
Released in 2026, the sequel follows Sally and Gillian as they confront their family’s ancestral curse once again. This time, the danger threatens the next generation, including Sally’s daughters Kylie, played by Joey King, and Antonia, portrayed by Maisie Williams.
Audience reviews collected by Rotten Tomatoes repeatedly describe the movie as emotional, entertaining, and faithful to the spirit of the original. Several viewers said they laughed and cried throughout the film, while others praised the cast for returning to characters they first played 28 years ago.
One viewer called the movie “worth the 28-year wait,” highlighting its emotional range and the work of the writers and performers. Another praised the sequel for offering a new storyline rather than simply repeating the original movie with a few additional characters.
A Heartwarming Return to the Owens Family
Much of the enthusiasm centers on the chemistry between Bullock and Kidman. Fans say the actors stepped comfortably back into their roles, preserving the distinctive bond between Sally and Gillian while giving the characters room to face new challenges.
Reviewers also celebrated the movie’s themes of love, loyalty, family, and caring for one another. Although some viewers felt the sequel had a different tone from the original, many appreciated its focus on emotional strength and women overcoming loss together.
- Sandra Bullock returns as Sally Owens.
- Nicole Kidman reprises her role as Gillian Owens.
- Joey King and Maisie Williams play the next generation of Owens women.
- Lee Pace returns as Ian Wright.
- Susanne Bier directs the sequel.
- The film is currently playing in theaters.
Fans Praise Nostalgia, Tears, and Fresh Storytelling
The audience response has not been entirely without criticism. Some viewers found the story predictable or felt that certain characters lacked development. One review specifically mentioned limited interaction between Sally and Ian, as well as insufficient attention to Maisie Williams’ character.
Even those more critical reactions often described the film as an enjoyable afternoon escape. That balance may help explain the wide gap between the professional and audience scores: moviegoers appear to be judging the sequel less as a formal fantasy drama and more as an emotional reunion with familiar characters.
Many fans also welcomed the decision not to remake the first film. The sequel reportedly includes plenty of fan service, but audiences appreciated that it builds on the original story rather than copying it scene for scene. The return of the iconic home and the presence of the original leads were especially important to longtime viewers.
Some reviews even suggested that the movie could become the start of a new trilogy. Other audience members called it a charming, heartfelt legacy sequel that successfully blends comedy, romance, magical realism, and family drama.
What the 92% Score Means for the Fantasy Sequel
The strong Popcornmeter result gives Practical Magic 2 a powerful advantage as it continues its theatrical run. The score indicates that the film is connecting with the viewers most invested in the return of the Owens sisters, despite the more cautious response from critics.
For fans of the 1998 original, the sequel offers a familiar mix of midnight margaritas, supernatural complications, heartfelt relationships, and emotional surprises. Newcomers may also find an accessible story centered on family bonds and a curse threatening the next generation.
Whether audiences ultimately embrace the film as a modern classic remains to be seen. For now, the message is clear: the magic of Sally and Gillian is still working on moviegoers. Viewers should bring tissues, expect a few laughs, and prepare for an emotional return to the Owens family’s enchanted world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Practical Magic 2 about?
The sequel follows sisters Sally and Gillian Owens as they confront an ancestral family curse threatening Sally’s daughters and the next generation.
Who stars in Practical Magic 2?
Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman lead the cast, with Joey King, Maisie Williams, and Lee Pace also appearing.
How are audiences rating Practical Magic 2?
The movie has a 92% Popcornmeter audience score, compared with a 36% Tomatometer score from critics, based on the Rotten Tomatoes information provided.
Is Practical Magic 2 in theaters?
Yes. Practical Magic 2 is currently playing in theaters.
Does Practical Magic 2 repeat the original movie?
Audience reviews say the sequel includes familiar elements and fan service but tells a new story instead of completely remaking the original.
