Sandra Bullock recalls the first Practical Magic bombing
Sandra Bullock recalls first realizing Practical Magic bombed after she and Nicole Kidman believed audiences would adore the 1998 witch sisters story. Speaking ahead of Practical Magic 2, Bullock said the premiere fell silent as critics questioned the film's tone and female-led cast—though the original later became a cult classic. The moment still stings for Bullock even as the Owen sisters return to screens nearly three decades later.
Key Takeaways
- Sandra Bullock recalls first expecting Practical Magic to be a smash hit before a quiet premiere reception.
- The 1998 film was a critical and box office flop before earning cult classic status over nearly 30 years.
- Bullock and Kidman honored director Griffin Dunne, crediting him with creating the film's world.
- Practical Magic 2 is based on Alice Hoffman's novel The Book of Magic and directed by Susanne Bier.
- Kidman says the sequel came together through serendipity when both stars were ready.
Why did Sandra Bullock think Practical Magic would be a hit?
Bullock and Kidman starred as the Owen sisters, sibling witches in the original Practical Magic. Variety reports that the cast and crew entered the project with high expectations.
"We thought, 'This is going to be such an amazing film. People are going to love it,'" Bullock recalled. That confidence reflected the creative energy behind a story that blended romance, magic, and sisterhood.
What happened when the first Practical Magic premiered?
Then the reception turned. "And then it got quiet. It got quiet," Bullock said.
She recalled critics asking, "How many women in a film do you need? How many tones do you need? What kind of film is this?" The original Practical Magic became a critical and box office failure before fans embraced it as a cult classic over the following decades.
Who is Griffin Dunne and why did Bullock honor him?
Bullock repeatedly credited director Griffin Dunne with building the film's world alongside the cast. Kidman added, "And he loved us and he let us shine."
Bullock noted that Dunne "never got to smell the flowers when we made it," and said the premiere event was meant to honor him at last. For more on cast reunions and sequel news, see our Streaming & TV Alerts hub.
Why is Practical Magic 2 happening now?
Kidman described the sequel's timing as serendipity. "It just happened," she said, adding that forcing projects rarely works and both actresses had to be patient and open.
Practical Magic 2 draws from Alice Hoffman's novel The Book of Magic and is directed by Susanne Bier. Kidman, Bullock, Stockard Channing, and Dianne Wiest reprise their roles alongside newcomers Joey King, Maisie Williams, Lee Pace, Xolo Maridueña, and Solly McLeod.
King, who previously worked with Kidman on the 2024 rom-com Family Affair, called her relationship with the veteran star a "pinch me moment" at the premiere, Variety reported.