Practical Magic 2 (12A)

Bullock and Kidman return for a witchy sequel that can still cast a spell.

Nearly three decades after Practical Magic became a cult favourite, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman are back as the Owens sisters, bringing their singular blend of eccentricity, sisterly affection and supernatural mischief to a new generation.

When Kylie (Joey King), the latest in the Owens family to fall in love, finds her new romance threatened by an ancient curse, she turns to the family’s magic for help. Her mother Sally (Bullock), who long ago turned her back on witchcraft, and free-spirited aunt Gilly (Kidman) are soon drawn back into the supernatural world, setting off on a journey that takes the Owens women from Boston to their ancestral home in England.

Directed by Susanne Bier, the film embraces everything that made the original so distinctive: playful magic, romantic entanglements, colourful characters and a soundtrack steeped in witchy atmosphere. Bullock and Kidman remain the heart of it all, effortlessly slipping back into the sparring, affectionate rhythm that made Sally and Gilly such an irresistible pairing.

With its cosy autumnal mood, eccentric humour and enduring celebration of female friendship and family, this is nostalgic enchantment 101.