Practical Magic 2 (2026), directed by Susanne Bier

Owens sisters Sally and Gillian are revisited 20-odd years later, with Sally having locked down her magic and forbidden her two daughters to be told of or trained in their witch legacy. Twice widowed by the ancient family curse, she believes this is the best way to keep Antonia and Kylie safe. But now Kylie has found love and her ignorance of her powers puts her at great risk. Can she find a way to break the curse and save her love? There are some really nice things about this sequel, which celebrates female power and the bond between sisters. It’s great to see Diane Wiest and Stockard Channing back as the wise aunts; Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock effortlessly re-create their sister act; Maisie Williams and Joey King are fine as the new generation, although Williams is not given much to do; and there are some fun nods to the first film, especially with the soundtrack. But the plot is ridiculous and the script is woeful; most of the humour and charm of the original is lost although you can see everyone trying very hard. Star power alone cannot carry a movie and Sandra Bullock playing Miss Congeniality yet again is just not that interesting.