There’s something so powerful within movies that use themes like sisterhood, especially when they include literal magic. Films like Practical Magic are more than just entertainment to put on when Halloween comes around. They’re a representation of how female relationships can be supportive and give you strength during the hardest times.
In movies like these, the bonds between the women are one of the most important parts of the story. It’s essential to the entire plot. These bonds include various relationships such as sisters, friends or even mentors, but they all provide the same kind of intimacy: guidance, protection and understanding. The “magic” within normal films lies in the strength of their connection, whereas in ones like Practical Magic, there’s also actual magic involved. Even so, with or without magic powers, together, these women can take on the world.
Practical Magic shows that sisterhood is about honesty and accepting each other, flaws and all, just as much as it is about supporting one another. The sisters act like any others would and argue, make mistakes and sometimes even disappoint each other, but they always come back together in the end. That’s what makes it special.
When I’m watching movies like this, I’m reminded of my own relationships with the women in my life. I lived with my cousin for most of my life, to the point where people thought we were sisters. I also have a friend I experienced girlhood with, who I’m still in touch with to this day. Another was my maid of honor at my wedding and one of the first people that came to see me when I go visit my hometown. There are many more that have come and gone as the years go by, but these are the people I trust to challenge me, celebrate with me and help me grow into the person I want to be. Seeing that reflected back to me on the screen normalizes that.
These films also help reinforce the idea that strength doesn’t always come from figuring out things out on your own. Sometimes, it’s about finding unconditional support and having people to fall back on when you need it. Practical Magic serves as a reminder to value the women in our lives.
In the end, witchy movies like this teach us that sisterhood matters. They show that life is richer, braver and more magical when women stand together, and they do it with humor, heart and a little bit of sparkle.
