Nicole Kidman has been enchanting audiences for decades, from her Oscar-winning turn in The Hours to recent streaming hits like Prime Video's Scarpetta and Apple TV+'s Margo's Got Money Troubles. But one of her most cherished roles is about to vanish from your queue—at least for now.
Practical Magic, the 1998 fantasy cult classic starring Kidman and Sandra Bullock as witchy sisters, is reportedly leaving HBO Max on May 1, 2026. The timing is bittersweet: the film's long-awaited sequel, Practical Magic 2, is set to cast its spell in theaters on September 11, 2026.
A Witchy Reunion on the Horizon
The sequel brings back Kidman as Gillian Owens and Bullock as Sally Owens, along with original cast members Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest. New faces include Joey King, Maisie Williams, Solly McLeod, Xolo Maridueña, and Lee Pace. Susanne Bier takes over directing duties from Griffin Dunne, and the story is based on Alice Hoffman's 2021 novel The Book of Magic—the fourth in the series that began with the 1995 book that inspired the original film.
If you need a refresher before the sequel, now's the time to stream. The original Practical Magic follows the Owens sisters, who inherit a family legacy of witchcraft but try to live normal lives. When Gillian's abusive boyfriend dies unexpectedly, they attempt a resurrection spell that goes horribly wrong, unleashing a malevolent spirit. As a suspicious policeman closes in, the sisters must master their magic to save their family line.
Why 'Practical Magic' Became a Cult Hit
At release, Practical Magic was a box-office disappointment, earning just $68 million worldwide against a $60 million budget. Critics were harsh, giving it a 27% score on Rotten Tomatoes. But audiences saw something special: the film holds a 73% audience score, and over the years it has blossomed into a beloved cult classic. Its blend of romance, sisterhood, and supernatural thrills—plus a killer soundtrack—kept fans coming back.
For those who love underappreciated fantasy gems, Practical Magic is a perfect example of a movie that found its audience long after leaving theaters. If you're looking for more magical tales, check out 10 Fantasy Anime That Outshine Frieren: Beyond Journey's End or dive into Forgotten Fantasy Gems: 7 Books That Hook You From Page One.
With its departure from HBO Max imminent, fans should plan a rewatch soon. After all, you'll want to be spell-ready when the Owens sisters return to the big screen this fall.
