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Kidman’s Surprise Sydney Appearance Caps Final Push for Practical Magic 2

Star-driven screenings and a public debate over recasting have focused attention on the Sept. 10 theatrical launch and may shape whether a third film is made.

Overview

  • Nicole Kidman unexpectedly joined a special Sydney screening on Friday, greeting fans, leading a toast, and wearing an Erdem floral gown styled by Jason Bolden as part of the film’s final promotional events.
  • Practical Magic 2 opens in theaters on Sept. 10 and reunites Kidman and Sandra Bullock under director Susanne Bier in an adaptation of Alice Hoffman’s The Book of Magic.
  • The sequel recast the original child roles with Maisie Williams and Joey King, prompting public responses from former cast members; Evan Rachel Wood said she was disappointed no one from the original production reached out while Alexandra Artrip urged fans to give the film a chance.
  • Filmmakers defended the casting as story driven, saying the daughters are portrayed as just out of college and required actors of that age, and Sandra Bullock has said a third film would depend on Practical Magic 2’s box-office performance.
  • The sequel grew out of decades of streaming-driven fan demand for the 1998 cult original, and current promotion has leaned on star appearances and fashion moments to convert nostalgia into immediate ticket sales and future franchise prospects.