Practical magic refers to the use of magical or supernatural abilities in everyday life. It can involve rituals, spells, incantations, potions, charms, and other mystical practices. Practical magic is often associated with witchcraft and is believed to harness the powers of the natural world to manifest desired outcomes. In many cultures and traditions, practical magic has been passed down through generations. It is seen as a way to connect with the spiritual realm and tap into unseen forces. Those who practice practical magic may study ancient texts, learn from experienced practitioners, or develop their own personal rituals and techniques.
Practical Magic: Film VS. Book
I loved the spooky vibe from the very beginning of this! It was so interesting to see the differences between this and the film adaptation. While the movie was set in that gorgeous house in a small town, the book was actually set in the suburbs in Sally’s house.
That was a huge shock to me but I really enjoyed that, it gave it more of a realistic view, oh and not to mention that the sisters have a more complicated relationship. There’s a lot of hurt and resentment that built up over the years and while Gillian is home for the same reasons as in the movie, it’s not as whimsical. They’ve tried to cover their tracks, Angelov was still a horrible guy and kinda got what he deserved if you asked me.
Sally’s daughters are older and they have their own relationship that’s just as complicated as Sally and Gillian’s. And Sally’s older daughter is a bit of a meanie, but, I loved her development.
Trying to be normal is a stronger theme for Sally but let me tell you guys, seeing Gillian work in the burgershack was one of the best things ever. Real life means sometimes taking a job you may not always want, so, you know, at least that was realistic. Gillian also though deserves love and we see that she’s made a lot of mistakes in picking a partner but the book gives her a worthy love arc, and I think it was a really great relationship for her.
The ending was less bombastic but just as satisfying in my opinion and while the movie was more whimsical, this was still whimsical in its own right and maybe because it was set in the suburbs but there was a heavy magical realism vibe to it because of it.
The Aunts were great and I loved having them come to Sally’s house, again having them come to the suburbs, it was truly great, and such a different vibe than I expected after seeing the movie first.
Overall, super fun read and perfect for any spooky or witchy tbr. 4/5 cups of coffee now onto the film!!
I can’t help it, I adore this film, in fact last night I watched it with Ruby of Bookishly Ruby and we had a blast. I was so glad she watched it with me! I did like the suburbs in the book, totally different vibe but really, I love this gorgeous old house from the movies. I thought it was fantastic and I love that the Aunts are a bit more prominent to the plot in the movie.
Sally’s daughters are younger and sweeter, and a bit more of an innocent addition to the story and Sally and Gillian themselves are closer and more connected. The stress and strain from the book isn’t as consuming in the movie though they still have their problems.
Sally breaks your heart with her grief after her husband dies, and it made me realize that this is just one of the many reasons I love this film.
The setting of the house and the town were great, the creepiness of Angelov is also so well done, you’re on edge with the sisters at times as things are obviously not okay after his death, and Sally is a bit more accepting of magic in the movie.
Sally’s love interest is also very nice, and if you ask Ruby, she’ll tell you all about his amazingness. It’s truly worth asking her and hearing lol.
I guess I don’t have too much to say because it would just be stating the differences, but I LOVE this movie and it turns out, even after reading the book which was awesome, I still love the movie more.
The differences:
- Sally and Gillian have a more strained relationship in the book
- Gillian has a love interest in the book!
- The daughters are younger and sweeter in the movie
- Book is set in the suburbs
- The Aunts are seen as more aloof in the book.
- There’s more of what the Aunts do for the local women in the book.
- Sally’s importance of being normal is more focused on in the book
- Acceptance of magic feels more dramatic in the book
Final Verdict
The book is so creative and intriguing but I love the movie more
Review: Practical Magic
Today I’m sharing my review of Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman. I have stated to do a series of Instagram Reels where I pair a book with a cocktail. Earlier this week I paired Practical Magic with a Empress 75.
Synopsis
The Owens sisters confront the challenges of life and love in this bewitching novel from New York Times bestselling author Alice Hoffman.
For more than two hundred years, the Owens women have been blamed for everything that has gone wrong in their Massachusetts town. Gillian and Sally have endured that fate as well: as children, the sisters were forever outsiders, taunted, talked about, pointed at. Their elderly aunts almost seemed to encourage the whispers of witchery, with their musty house and their exotic concoctions and their crowd of black cats. But all Gillian and Sally wanted was to escape.
One will do so by marrying, the other by running away. But the bonds they share will bring them back—almost as if by magic…
Why I Decided to Read this Book
I watched the Practical Magic movie a lot growing up and didn’t even know it was a book until a few years ago. The last book in the series just came out so I wanted to read them all!
Rating
My Thoughts
This book and the entire series is very much outside of my reading comfort zone. I have a hard time with fantasy or magic books but I was pleasantly surprised with this one. I loved immersing myself in the Owen sister’s world and ended up really enjoying Alice Hoffman’s writing.
The story was a little bit slow but I didn’t mind it. There is still a plot and I was entertained. I loved the magic and actually wished there was more. I have already started reading The Rules of Magic (second book published in the series but it is a prequel) and I am loving it because there is a lot more magic there. Who knew I was going to want more magic?
I would say it took me a second to get used to Alice Hoffman’s writing but I am in love with it. It is different so I can see some people not loving it but it worked for me and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the series. I am hoping to finish them all by the end of November.
Content Warnings
Domestic abuse, Grief, Emotional abuse, Death, Bullying, Sexual violence
Who I Recommend this Book to
I’d recommend this to anyone looking for a new book world to get lost in. You don’t need to like fantasy to enjoy this one.
The Drink
Since I shared a matching cocktail for this book on my Instagram, I thought I’d share the recipe here!
MOVIE VS. BOOK: PRACTICAL MAGIC
Boil boil, Toil and Trouble, it’s the second day of October and why not touch base on the 90s classic Practical Magic starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman based on the novel of the same name by Alice Hoffman.
Book
It follows the story of orphans Sally and Gillian Owens who are taken in by their magically gifted aunts. While growing up, they begin to learn how their magical backgrounds have caused quite a stir in their town in Massachusetts through taunts, whispers, and women sneaking to their home in the middle of the night for love potions.
Sally and Gillian long to be considered normal and will do anything in order to do so. Gillian escapes her small town by running away and jumping from man to man while Sally gets married and has two children, Antonia and Kylie. But they soon learn that you can’t run away from your past and especially can’t run away from your true self.
The book is pretty heavy on descriptions, there are often times when they span a couple pages, making the story drag along. We see the growth of Gillian and Sally from childhood onto their forties through their actions. We also get to know Sally’s children Antonia and Kylie and their growing powers.
Movie
I watched the movie when I was younger and have been in love with it for many years. I found a copy of the book at a library sale last year and finally got to read into the Owen sister’s true background story. Before I go further, I always go for the book instead of the movie but in this case I enjoyed the movie more so than the book.
The differences, for starters, are the descriptions of Gillian, Sally, and the aunts. Gillian is described as a blonde siren of a woman in the book and ages at a rapid pace. Sally is introverted and keeps most of what she wants to say on the inside. The aunts are barely there in the book, but the movie brings them to life in such a way that I fall in love with them instantly and wish they were my aunts!
I would take midnight margaritas any night, I’m just saying!
I don’t know, the movie makes me appreciate the characters more. The story is well developed for a film adaption. It differs quite a bit to the book but not in a bad way! In the book, Gillian finds love not just Sally. I honestly wish they would have added that into the movie to wrap it up with a pretty black bow. I’m not complaining, but it could have added an extra romantic element.
In the book, Sally’s daughters names are switched and they are more vocal than their film adapted counterparts. We get a deeper insight into Sally’s marriage and her mourning for her husband. They skim over it in the movie in just the right way without overly drowning you in emotions. The movie reveals Sally poisoned Jimmy, Gillian’s abusive boyfriend, with bella donna while the book says differently. I prefer Gillian doing the dirty work because book Sally does not seem the vengeful type.
Oh, two of the most memorable scenes in the movie never existed in the book. If you’ve seen the movie, remember that whole resurrection scene? Yeah, never happened. And Gillian’s possession? Never happened either. Jimmy is a poltergeist but he never makes his slimy way to Gillian. And Gillian and Sally bury him under lilac bushes instead of attempting to resurrect him.
Those who practice practical magic may study ancient texts, learn from experienced practitioners, or develop their own personal rituals and techniques. The belief in practical magic can be found in various forms across different societies. Some view it as a form of empowerment and personal growth, using magic to create positive change in their lives.
Regardless of the differences…
Others may practice practical magic for healing purposes, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. It is believed that through the use of magical practices, one can influence the energy around them to bring about healing and balance. While practical magic is often associated with the occult and viewed with skepticism by some, it remains a significant part of many spiritual and religious traditions. In some cases, it is even recognized and embraced by mainstream society. For example, many people incorporate elements of practical magic, such as candles, crystals, and intention setting, into their daily lives as a means of manifesting their goals and desires. However, it is important to note that practical magic is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It requires faith, belief, and dedication to the practice. It is also essential to approach practical magic with respect and understanding of its potential consequences. Like any form of power, magic must be used responsibly and ethically to avoid harm. In conclusion, practical magic is a belief and practice that involves the use of supernatural abilities to create positive change in one's life. It is deeply rooted in various cultures and traditions and can be approached in different ways. Whether used for empowerment, healing, or manifestation, practical magic requires faith, respect, and responsible use..
Reviews for "Witchcraft Reimagined: Practical Magic in Pop Culture"
1. Olivia - 2/5 stars - While I appreciate the theme of sisterhood and female empowerment, "Practical Magic" fell flat for me. The plot lacked depth and the character development felt rushed. I found it hard to engage with the story or empathize with the characters. Overall, I was disappointed with the execution of what could have been a compelling and magical tale.
2. James - 1/5 stars - I found "Practical Magic" to be extremely predictable and cliche. The storyline was formulaic, and the characters seemed one-dimensional. The film failed to hold my interest, and I couldn't connect with any of the characters. It lacked the depth and complexity that is expected from a supernatural-themed movie, leaving me feeling bored and unimpressed.
3. Emma - 2/5 stars - I had high expectations for "Practical Magic" based on its reputation, but unfortunately, it fell short for me. The love story between the two main characters felt forced and lacked development. The pacing of the movie was uneven, making it difficult to fully immerse myself in the story. While the visuals were appealing, the lack of substance and substance made it hard for me to enjoy the film overall.
4. Alex - 3/5 stars - "Practical Magic" had a promising premise, but it failed to deliver a cohesive and engaging storyline. The plot felt disjointed and scattered, making it difficult to fully invest in the characters and their struggles. The film had moments of charm and humor, but they were overshadowed by the lack of depth and a feeling of missed potential. Overall, it was an average movie that left me unsatisfied.