Practical Magic is a fantasy film released in 1998 that tells the story of two sisters, Sally and Gillian Owens, who come from a long line of witches. The movie explores themes of love, family, and the power of magic. While Practical Magic is generally suitable for a wide range of audiences, there are a few aspects that parents should consider before allowing younger viewers to watch the film. One of the main themes in Practical Magic is the presence of magic and witchcraft. While the film portrays magic as a positive force that brings joy and healing, some parents may feel uncomfortable with the idea of their children being exposed to these concepts. Additionally, there are a few scenes that depict rituals and spells being performed, which could be seen as promoting occult practices.
Practical Magic Parent Guide
Sally (Sandra Bullock) and Gillian Owens (Nicole Kidman) are sister witches. Their family lives with a centuries old curse that decrees any man will face certain death if he becomes romantically attached to an Owens woman. After their father dies and their mother passes away from a “broken heart,” the girls are raised by their two single eccentric aunts—also known for their witching behavior.
The curse causes the sisters to have very different attitudes about their lives. Choosing marriage, Sally has two children before her husband dies, while Gillian enjoys many men, but eventually gets locked in an abusive situation with Jimmy (Goran Visnjic). Finally recognizing that his often drunk and emotionally disturbed personality is too high a price for the sexual pleasure she originally sought in the relationship, Gillian calls on Sally for help. In an attempt to restrain Jimmy, the sisters rope themselves into a murder and resort to witchcraft to try and cover their tracks. But their lies and wrong doings only lead them to be haunted by Jimmy’s spirit and hunted by a detective.
Obviously, those concerned about the portrayal of witchcraft will stay away from this title, but all parents should consider the risk of their children falling prey to these cult-like activities when they are shown in this context. These women are looking for power and acceptance, and witchcraft is portrayed as the solution to their desperate situation. Other messages and scenes that young viewers may consider mimicking include cutting hands for blood sharing in a bonding ritual, and the use of cigarettes, drugs, and alcohol (including while driving).
All this, and the writers still come up with a happy ending. The witches become accepted in the community, and even jump from their roof in witch costumes for a Halloween performance. Through the use of their “magic,” the aunts manipulate the police detective to fall in love with Sally and conveniently clear the women of any charges.
Fortunately, parents can wave their magic remote controls, and nobody will get away with murder in your home
Starring Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman. Updated April 1, 2009
About author
Rod Gustafson
Rod Gustafson has worked in various media industries since 1977. He founded Parent Previews in 1993, and today continues to write and broadcast the reviews in newspapers, on radio and (of course) on the Internet. His efforts also include writing and researching media in all its forms and observing how it effects society and culture. He and his wife Donna have four children.
Why You Might Want To Wait Until Your Kids Are Older To Watch Practical Magic On Halloween
No offense to all of the other very fine Halloween movies out there, but Practical Magic is in a league of its own. Witchy without being scary, fun and dark, and above all, romantic and yet mostly focused on the power of women supporting women. Plus the house is a dream. If you haven’t seen the 1998 Warner Bros. movie starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as Sally and Gillian Owens, you are in for a treat. But if you’re hoping to watch it with kids. read on.
Additionally, there are a few scenes that depict rituals and spells being performed, which could be seen as promoting occult practices. Parents who are concerned about their children being exposed to these ideas may want to watch the film first and decide if it aligns with their personal beliefs and values. Another important aspect to consider is the presence of adult themes and content.
The Plot Thickens.
Practical Magic was based on the Alice Hoffman book of the same name from 1995. It follows the women of the Owens family, who have been labeled witches by the residents of their sleepy Massachussetts town for two centuries. Because they are. Sisters Sally and Gillian have been trying to escape their family reputation, which isn’t helped by their aunts Bridget and Frances (played so beautifully by Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing) cooking up love potions constantly. Sally and Gillian believe their family is cursed when it comes to love for themselves, and it seems they may be right. Especially when Sally’s sweet husband dies in a truck accident and Gillian’s violent boyfriend Jimmy (Goran Visnjik) also dies. At their hands. More than once.
Practical Magic deals with topics such as love, relationships, and sexuality. There are a few scenes that contain mild sexual content and discussions of romantic relationships. While these scenes are not explicit or graphic, they may be inappropriate for younger viewers or those who are not yet ready to engage with these themes. Parents should be aware of these moments and determine if they are suitable for their children. In terms of violence and scary elements, Practical Magic is relatively mild. There are a few tense moments and confrontations, but the film is not particularly graphic or intense. However, there is a minor subplot involving an abusive relationship that may be distressing for some viewers, particularly younger audiences. Parents should be prepared to discuss these themes with their children if they arise during or after watching the film. Lastly, it is worth noting that Practical Magic is rated PG-13, indicating that some material may be inappropriate for children under 13 years old. This rating is meant as a guideline for parents, and they should use their own judgment when deciding if the film is suitable for their children. In conclusion, Practical Magic is a fantasy film that explores themes of love, family, and the power of magic. While generally suitable for a wide range of audiences, parents should consider the presence of magic and witchcraft, adult themes and content, as well as minor violence and scary elements. By watching the film first and considering its suitability for their children, parents can make an informed decision about allowing younger viewers to watch Practical Magic..
Reviews for "Empowering Children through Practical Magic: A Parent's Role"
1. Sarah - 2 stars - I was really disappointed with "Practical Magic" as a parent. The movie seems to glamorize witchcraft and make it seem like a fun and exciting thing for kids to be involved in. As a parent, I want to teach my children to have a solid moral foundation and to avoid getting involved in anything that could be harmful or dangerous. I felt like this movie did not align with those values and sent the wrong message to impressionable young minds.
2. John - 1 star - I found "Practical Magic" to be completely inappropriate for children. The movie contains scenes of violence, dark magic, and even a disturbing scene where a character is killed. This is definitely not suitable for kids and parents should exercise caution when deciding whether to let their children watch this film. Furthermore, the movie lacks a strong moral message and seems to promote selfish desires over the well-being of others. I would not recommend this movie for families looking for wholesome entertainment.
3. Emily - 2 stars - "Practical Magic" is not a movie I would recommend for parents to watch with their children. The movie delves into themes such as abuse, manipulation, and toxic relationships, which are not suitable for young audiences. Additionally, the portrayal of witchcraft in the movie may raise questions and curiosities in children that parents may not be comfortable addressing at a young age. While the film may have its merits for adult viewers, it is definitely not appropriate for parents looking for a family-friendly movie night.