“Hocus Pocus”, “It’s the Great Pumpkin” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas” are all classic fall must watches. These films create a time for family and friends to gather together, indulge in tasty fall snacks and enjoy the comfort that these movies bring every year. This is the same way I feel about “Practical Magic”, though whenever I ask, “Have you ever seen Practical Magic?”, I am met with befuddled expressions and the shaking of heads.
The movie “Practical Magic”, starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, is a heartwarming story about sisterhood, family, romance and a bit of witchcraft. Sally (Sandra Bullock) and Gillian (Nicole Kidman) are sisters who were born into a magical family and lived with their two aunts. Their mother died when they were young, due to the never-ending sadness from her husband’s passing. His death was caused by the curse, “…that whoever falls in love with an Owen’s woman will die”.
As they learned the ways from their witch aunts, they acquired a knowledge of how to use magic for more practical and safe reasons, but later used it to protect themselves while also putting themselves at risk. Sally discovered a talent for casting spells and using her powers. Since Sally was aware of the curse, she grew afraid of it, but Gillian was quite the opposite, unable to wait for the idea of love. Sally continued to develop her talent, as Gillian sought more in life. Once Gillian was old enough to take care of herself, she went on her own path, and Sally stayed behind. Soon after, Sally found love out of the blue and saw love as something marvelous and not terrifying.
The two sisters were then adults and had steered away from the practice of magic, hoping to reach a more normal life. Sally began a family and was content. Though all was well, Gillian caused Sally much worry due to her lack of care and restraint.
Finally, the love curse came. Though Sally was still conscious that the curse could harm her husband, she did not want to accept the fact. Soon after, she had to take action in order to save Gillian from her abusive boyfriend. To avoid being associated with murder, they had to return to their retired ways of practical magic in order to destroy the boyfriend’s evil spirit and keep their family impregnable.
Undeniably, this movie is full of suspense and mystery, but in addition, it is a beautiful story about how no matter the circumstances, sisters are always there for one another. The film is a prominent representation of sisterhood and the overall importance of family The film also showcases the perfect cozy fall atmosphere: they live in a quaint small town where the leaves are always falling, sweaters are on, and neighbors always have pumpkins on their porches.
In the end, all women have an inner witch. And if she wants to obtain this gift, she must be open and stay true to herself. The movie “Practical Magic” is a magnificent and bewitching tale that everyone should watch during the fall season.
