Films & Events

Adapted from Alice Hoffman’s beloved 1995 novel, Practical Magic blends romance, fantasy, and sisterhood into a story that has only grown more cherished over time. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman star as Sally and Gillian Owens—two sisters from a long line of witches living under a generations-old curse that dooms any man an Owens woman loves. After a tragic loss and a dangerously abusive relationship entangle the sisters in dark magic, they must confront both the supernatural and the emotional legacies that have shaped their family.

Though the film received mixed reviews upon release, its genre-blending boldness and focus on women’s relationships have since earned it a devoted cult following. Its exploration of grief, resilience, and the power of female community has been widely revisited by critics, and Hoffman’s novel has continued to thrive—spawning a prequel series (The Rules of Magic, Magic Lessons, The Book of Magic) and inspiring a renewed appreciation for the Owens family story.

A staple of ’90s fantasy cinema, Practical Magic remains significant for its warm portrayal of magical realism, its celebration of sisterhood, and its lasting impact on both readers and viewers who return to the Owens women year after year.

1998. 104 min.

Rated PG-13 for some violence, intense thematic elements and sensuality.