Title : Practical Magic
Year released: October 16, 1998
Directed by: Griffin Dunne
Notable Cast: Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman
Available to Stream: At this time it is not available for free on streaming services
Fun Facts:
- Based on the book by Alice Hoffman
- The midnight margaritas scene was actually true – the actors drank tequila and got a little tipsy.
There is something afoot on Maria’s Island. There has been for centuries. Massachusetts hasn’t always been welcoming to the ways of witchcraft. But it’s the 90’s and fear has replaced judgement in the hearts of Islanders. The Owens sisters are able to go about their business as only a mild irritant to the population.
The story begins when tragedy befalls their nieces and Sally and Gillian move in with their eccentric aunts. It follows the girls into adulthood. The reluctant witch Sally is constantly cleaning up the messes of the daring Gillian. Her sister who allows her pain to manifest itself in reckless behaviour.
Sally is played with magnetic charm by Sandra Bullock who’s desire for normalcy is under the shadow of a familial curse. The aunts are brought to life by two women with whom you’d want to enjoy midnight margaritas (Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest).
With the exception of one over the top effects scene the movie is simply charming throughout.