If you’re a fan of the bewitching 1998 film Practical Magic, starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as sister witches Sally and Gillian Owens, then you know the special charm this movie possesses. It perfectly blends romance, comedy, drama and a touch of the supernatural into a heartwarming story about the power of sisterhood and family.
Practical Magic has become a cult classic and a go-to comfort movie, especially around Halloween. But what do you watch when you’ve worn out your DVD of this enchanting film? Fear not, my fellow witch-movie lovers, for I have conjured up a list of 18 movies that capture a similar magical essence. These films feature strong female characters, often with supernatural abilities, quirky small towns, and themes of love, family and friendship. So grab your broomstick, light some candles, and let’s dive into this cauldron of cinematic sorcery!
1. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Hocus Pocus is a Halloween classic that brings the perfect blend of comedy and witchcraft to the screen. Set in Salem, Massachusetts, the story follows three witches, the Sanderson sisters, who are accidentally resurrected by a teenage boy on Halloween night. The sisters, played by the iconic trio of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, must suck the life force from children to maintain their youth and beauty.
As the witches wreak havoc on the town, it’s up to the teenager, his little sister, and his crush to stop them before the sun rises. Hocus Pocus is filled with hilarious moments, catchy musical numbers, and just the right amount of spookiness. With its quotable lines, memorable characters, and nostalgic ’90s charm, Hocus Pocus has become a beloved Halloween tradition for many. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or the hundredth, this bewitching comedy is sure to cast a spell on you.
2. The Craft (1996)
The Craft is a dark and edgy teen drama that delves into the world of witchcraft with a grittier tone than Practical Magic. The story follows Sarah, a troubled teenager who moves to a new school and befriends three outcast girls who practice witchcraft. Together, they form a coven and begin to explore their newfound powers, using magic to solve their personal problems and take revenge on those who have wronged them.
As their abilities grow stronger, the girls find themselves dealing with unexpected and dangerous consequences. The Craft explores themes of power, friendship, and the moral implications of using magic for personal gain. Like Practical Magic, The Craft focuses on the bond between women and the power of sisterhood, but with a darker, more cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power. With its iconic fashion, memorable quotes, and exploration of teenage angst through a supernatural lens, The Craft has become a cult classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
3. Bewitched (2005)
Bewitched is a charming romantic comedy that puts a modern spin on the classic TV series of the same name. The film stars Nicole Kidman as Isabel Bigelow, a real witch who is cast to play Samantha in a remake of the Bewitched television show. Will Ferrell plays Jack Wyatt, a washed-up actor hoping to revive his career by starring as Darrin in the remake. Unaware that Isabel is an actual witch, Jack thinks he’s found the perfect co-star who won’t outshine him.
As Isabel tries to navigate the world of Hollywood and suppress her magical powers, she finds herself falling for Jack. Bewitched shares similarities with Practical Magic in its lighthearted approach to witchcraft and its focus on a witch trying to live a normal life. Nicole Kidman’s performance as the endearing and slightly naive Isabel is reminiscent of her role in Practical Magic, bringing a similar charm and vulnerability to the character. With its witty script, magical hijinks, and sweet romance, Bewitched offers a delightful and nostalgic experience for fans of the original series and newcomers alike.
4. The Love Witch (2016)
The Love Witch is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film that pays homage to 1960s Technicolor thrillers while exploring modern themes of feminism and desire. Written, directed, and produced by Anna Biller, the movie follows Elaine, a beautiful young witch who uses magic to make men fall in love with her. However, her spells often have unintended and deadly consequences.
Set in a stylized version of present-day California, the film’s meticulous attention to detail in costume, set design, and cinematography creates a captivating retro aesthetic. The Love Witch delves into the complexities of female sexuality, power dynamics, and the dangers of obsessive love. Like Practical Magic, it features a strong female protagonist who uses witchcraft, but it takes a darker and more satirical approach to the subject matter. With its unique blend of humor, horror, and social commentary, The Love Witch offers a fresh and feminist take on the witch movie genre that will leave viewers spellbound.
5. Stardust (2007)
Stardust is a whimsical fantasy adventure based on Neil Gaiman’s novel of the same name. The story follows Tristan, a young man from a small English village, who ventures into a magical realm to retrieve a fallen star for his beloved. However, he soon discovers that the star is actually a young woman named Yvaine, and he’s not the only one seeking her. Witches, led by the evil Lamia (Michelle Pfeiffer), want to cut out Yvaine’s heart to gain eternal youth, while princes compete to find her and claim the throne.
Directed by Matthew Vaughn, Stardust combines romance, humor, and magic in a way that will appeal to fans of Practical Magic. Like Practical Magic, Stardust explores themes of love, family, and self-discovery against a backdrop of magic and adventure. The movie’s blend of fairy tale elements with more mature themes creates a unique and enchanting viewing experience. With its stunning visual effects, witty dialogue, and heartwarming story, Stardust is a magical journey that will captivate audiences of all ages.
6. The Witches of Eastwick (1987)
The Witches of Eastwick is a deliciously wicked comedy-fantasy based on John Updike’s novel. The film follows three dissatisfied women in a small New England town: Alexandra (Cher), Jane (Susan Sarandon), and Sukie (Michelle Pfeiffer). Unaware of their magical abilities, the three friends unknowingly conjure up a mysterious and charismatic man, Daryl Van Horne, played with devilish charm by Jack Nicholson.
As Daryl seduces each of the women, they begin to discover and embrace their powers. However, they soon realize that their newfound companion might be more than he appears. The Witches of Eastwick blends elements of romance, comedy, and the supernatural in a way that will appeal to fans of Practical Magic. The film explores themes of female empowerment, sexuality, and the consequences of getting what you wish for. With its sharp wit, strong female characters, and exploration of magic in a modern setting, The Witches of Eastwick offers a wickedly entertaining experience.
7. The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood (2002)
The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood is a heartwarming drama that, while not about witches, shares many themes with Practical Magic. Based on Rebecca Wells’ novel, the film explores the complex relationships between mothers and daughters, and the enduring power of female friendships. The story centers on Siddalee Walker, a successful playwright whose strained relationship with her eccentric Southern mother, Vivi, comes to a head after a magazine interview.
To mend the rift, Vivi’s lifelong friends, known as the Ya-Ya Sisterhood, kidnap Siddalee and reveal the secrets of her mother’s past through a scrapbook called the “Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood.” Like Practical Magic, this movie celebrates the bonds between women across generations and the healing power of sisterhood. Set in the American South, the movie captures a similar sense of place and family history as Practical Magic. While there’s no actual magic involved, the deep connections between the women and the transformative power of their friendship give the film a magical quality that will appeal to fans of the Owens sisters’ story.
8. I Married a Witch (1942)
I Married a Witch is a classic romantic comedy that laid the groundwork for many witch-themed films that followed, including Practical Magic. Directed by René Clair, this charming film tells the story of Jennifer, a witch from Salem played by Veronica Lake, who is burned at the stake in the 17th century. Before her death, she curses all the male descendants of the Puritan who condemned her to be unlucky in love.
Centuries later, Jennifer and her father are freed from the tree where their ashes were buried. She sets out to torment the latest descendant of the Puritan family, Wallace Wooley, who is running for governor and about to be married. However, her plans go awry when she accidentally drinks a love potion intended for Wallace and falls for him instead. I Married a Witch combines supernatural elements with screwball comedy to create a delightful and influential film. Like Practical Magic, it explores the theme of a witch trying to find love and acceptance in the mortal world. Despite being nearly 80 years old, I Married a Witch remains a charming and entertaining film that will appeal to fans of Practical Magic and classic Hollywood cinema alike.
9. The Lake House (2006)
The Lake House is a romantic drama with a supernatural twist that will appeal to fans of Practical Magic‘s blend of love and magic. Starring Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves, the film tells the story of Kate Forster, a doctor, and Alex Wyler, an architect, who begin exchanging letters through a mailbox at a lake house where they both lived – but two years apart in time.
As Kate and Alex continue to correspond, they fall in love despite the mysterious time gap separating them. They must then figure out how to bridge this temporal divide and be together. While The Lake House doesn’t involve witchcraft, its exploration of a love that transcends normal boundaries echoes the supernatural romance in Practical Magic. Set against the backdrop of Chicago’s beautiful architecture, The Lake House creates a dreamy and romantic atmosphere that enhances its magical realist story. With its blend of romance, mystery, and a touch of the impossible, this film offers a different kind of magic that will captivate audiences looking for a love story that goes beyond the ordinary.
10. Teen Witch (1989)
Teen Witch is a delightfully cheesy ’80s teen comedy with a magical twist. The film follows Louise Miller, an unpopular high school student who discovers on her 16th birthday that she’s descended from the witches of Salem and has magical powers. With the help of Madame Serena, a fortune teller, Louise learns to harness her newfound abilities and uses them to become the most popular girl in school and win the heart of her crush, Brad.
While Teen Witch takes a more lighthearted approach to witchcraft than Practical Magic, both films explore themes of a young woman coming to terms with her magical heritage and using her powers to navigate life and love. Like Practical Magic, Teen Witch touches on the idea of using magic for personal gain and the potential consequences of such actions. While it may not have the depth of Practical Magic, Teen Witch offers a fun, nostalgic romp through ’80s teen movie tropes with a magical twist. Its cult following and memorable scenes (like the infamous “Top That” rap) have made it a beloved classic in the teen witch subgenre.
11. Beautiful Creatures (2013)
Beautiful Creatures is a supernatural romance based on the young adult novel by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. Set in the fictional town of Gatlin, South Carolina, the film follows Ethan Wate, a high school student who becomes drawn to Lena Duchannes, the mysterious new girl in town. Lena comes from a family of Casters (witches), and as her 16th birthday approaches, she must face a ceremony that will determine whether her powers will be claimed for Light or Dark.
Like Practical Magic, Beautiful Creatures explores themes of family legacy, the struggle between good and evil, and the power of love in a world filled with magic. The Southern Gothic setting creates a rich atmosphere that adds depth to the supernatural elements of the story. While Beautiful Creatures is aimed at a younger audience than Practical Magic, it shares a similar focus on the complexities of being a witch in the modern world and the challenges of balancing magical heritage with normal life. With its blend of romance, magic, and coming-of-age drama, Beautiful Creatures offers an engaging supernatural tale that will appeal to fans of Practical Magic looking for a more teen-oriented story.
12. Suspiria (2018)
Suspiria, directed by Luca Guadagnino, is a bold reimagining of Dario Argento’s 1977 horror classic. Set in 1977 Berlin, the film follows Susie Bannion, an American dancer who joins a prestigious dance academy that harbors dark secrets. As Susie rises through the ranks of the academy, she becomes entangled in the coven of witches that runs the school, led by the enigmatic Madame Blanc.
While Suspiria takes a much darker and more violent approach to witchcraft than Practical Magic, both films explore themes of female power and the bonds between women in a coven. The film’s striking visual style, unsettling dance sequences, and Thom Yorke’s haunting score create a mesmerizing and often disturbing atmosphere. Suspiria delves deep into themes of motherhood, power dynamics, and the weight of history, set against the backdrop of a divided Berlin. While it’s a far cry from the warmth and romance of Practical Magic, Suspiria offers a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of witchcraft that will appeal to those looking for a more challenging and artistic take on the subject.
13. The Witches (2020)
The Witches, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is a darkly whimsical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s novel. Set in 1960s Alabama, the story follows a young orphaned boy who goes to live with his loving grandmother. While staying at a seaside resort, they encounter a coven of glamorous but diabolical witches, led by the Grand High Witch, played with delicious villainy by Anne Hathaway.
The witches in this film are a far cry from the benevolent Owens sisters in Practical Magic, but both movies explore the idea of witches living secretly among ordinary people. The Witches blends humor and horror in a way that’s accessible to younger viewers while still offering plenty of entertainment for adults. Octavia Spencer brings warmth and strength to her role as the grandmother, creating a character reminiscent of the aunts in Practical Magic. Like Practical Magic, it touches on themes of family, courage, and the power of love to overcome evil. With its blend of magic, humor, and heart, The Witches is a bewitching tale that will entertain viewers of all ages.
14. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989)
Kiki’s Delivery Service is a charming animated film from the renowned Studio Ghibli, directed by Hayao Miyazaki. This coming-of-age story follows Kiki, a 13-year-old witch who, as per tradition, must leave home for a year to hone her magical skills. Accompanied by her talking black cat, Jiji, Kiki settles in a seaside town where she starts a flying delivery service.
While Kiki’s Delivery Service is more family-friendly than Practical Magic, both films explore themes of a young witch finding her place in the world and learning to use her powers responsibly. The movie beautifully captures the excitement and challenges of growing up, with Kiki’s struggles to fit in and find her purpose resonating with viewers of all ages. Like Practical Magic, Kiki’s Delivery Service portrays witchcraft as a natural part of its world, focusing more on personal growth and relationships than on the spectacle of magic. With its heartwarming story, lovable characters, and beautiful animation, Kiki’s Delivery Service offers a magical experience that will enchant fans of Practical Magic looking for a more whimsical take on witchcraft.
15. The Covenant (2006)
The Covenant is a supernatural thriller that puts a masculine spin on the witch movie genre. The film follows four teenage boys, known as the Sons of Ipswich, who are the descendants of colonial witch families. Each of them possesses magical powers that fully mature on their 18th birthday. However, using these powers comes at a cost – it ages them prematurely and can become addictive.
While The Covenant focuses on male witches (or warlocks) rather than female ones, it shares with Practical Magic themes of magical legacies and the dangers of abusing supernatural powers. The film’s setting in New England and its connection to colonial witch history also echo elements of Practical Magic. The Covenant blends elements of teen drama, supernatural thriller, and action movie, creating a unique entry in the witch film genre. While it may not have the emotional depth of Practical Magic, The Covenant offers an entertaining and visually striking take on witchcraft that will appeal to fans of supernatural thrillers and teen dramas alike.
16. Halloweentown (1998)
Halloweentown is a Disney Channel original movie that has become a beloved Halloween classic. The story follows Marnie Piper, a 13-year-old girl who discovers she comes from a family of witches. Against her mother’s wishes, Marnie follows her grandmother Aggie to Halloweentown, a magical place where supernatural creatures live in harmony.
Like Practical Magic, Halloweentown explores the theme of a young woman discovering her magical heritage and learning to embrace her powers. The film’s focus on the relationship between Marnie and her grandmother Aggie (played by the delightful Debbie Reynolds) echoes the intergenerational bonds in Practical Magic. While Halloweentown is aimed at a younger audience, it shares with Practical Magic a warm, family-friendly approach to witchcraft. With its mix of humor, heart, and Halloween spirit, Halloweentown offers a magical experience that will appeal to younger fans of Practical Magic or adults looking for a nostalgic trip back to their Disney Channel days.
17. The Wizard of Oz (1939)
The Wizard of Oz is a timeless classic that has enchanted audiences for generations. While not primarily about witches, the film features some of the most iconic witch characters in cinema history. The story follows Dorothy Gale, a young girl from Kansas who is transported to the magical land of Oz. There, she encounters both good and wicked witches as she tries to find her way home.
Although The Wizard of Oz is quite different from Practical Magic in tone and style, both films explore themes of good versus evil in the context of witchcraft. The contrast between Glinda the Good Witch and the Wicked Witch of the West presents a dichotomy of magical power that echoes the struggle between light and dark magic in many witch stories. Margaret Hamilton’s portrayal of the Wicked Witch of the West remains one of the most memorable villains in film history. Like Practical Magic, The Wizard of Oz emphasizes the importance of home, family, and believing in oneself. Whether you’re revisiting this classic or introducing it to a new generation, The Wizard of Oz offers a magical journey that continues to inspire and delight.
18. The Witcher (2019)
While The Witcher is a television series rather than a movie, its rich fantasy world and exploration of magic make it a worthy addition to this list. Based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with supernatural abilities, as he navigates a world filled with dangerous creatures and political intrigue. The series also focuses on Yennefer, a powerful sorceress, and Ciri, a young princess with mysterious powers.
Although The Witcher is set in a fantasy world unlike the contemporary setting of Practical Magic, both stories delve into the complexities of wielding magical power. The character of Yennefer, in particular, offers a compelling exploration of a woman coming to terms with her magical abilities and the sacrifices they require. Like Practical Magic, The Witcher explores themes of destiny, the nature of power, and the bonds between people in a world where magic is real. The series’ darker tone and more violent content make it suitable for adult viewers looking for a grittier take on magical themes. With its blend of action, drama, and fantasy, The Witcher offers an epic and engrossing journey into a world where magic is both a blessing and a curse.
So there you have it, 18 enchanting movies to watch if you love Practical Magic. Whether you’re in the mood for witchy romcoms, supernatural dramas, magical adventures or nostalgic Halloween favorites, there’s something on this list to satisfy your craving for cinematic sorcery. So grab some popcorn, light a few candles
