Latest news with #romanticfantasy
Yahoo
19-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Dianne Wiest, Stockard Channing Returning for ‘Practical Magic 2'
Dianne Wiest and Stockard Channing will reprise their roles as eccentric aunts with a deep knowledge of coven living in 'Practical Magic 2.' They join Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, the stars of the 1998 romantic fantasy that is getting a sequel from Warner Bros. Wiest is a two-time Oscar winner who was recognized for her supporting turns in Woody Allen's 'Hannah and Her Sisters' and 'Bullets Over Broadway.' Her film credits include 'Parenthood' (another Oscar nomination), as well as 'The Birdcage,' 'Edward Scissorhands,' 'The Lost Boys,' and 'Little Man Tate.' More recently, Wiest appeared in 'The Mule' and 'I Care a Lot.' More from Variety Nicole Kidman and Mark Strong on Achieving 'Closure' in That Twisty 'Nine Perfect Strangers' Finale Keith Urban Interview Abruptly Ends After Question About Nicole Kidman Doing Sex Scenes; Radio Co-Host Claims: 'We Upset Him' Nicole Kidman to Star in 'Girls and Their Horses' TV Series in Development at Amazon, Legendary (EXCLUSIVE) Channing is an Oscar nominee for her work in 'Six Degrees of Separation.' Her other films include 'Grease' and 'Up Close and Personal.' She also appeared on 'The West Wing' and won a Tony for 'A Day in the Death of Joe Egg.' In addition to Wiest and Channing, Lee Pace ('Bodies Bodies Bodies'), Maisie Williams ('Game of Thrones'), Xolo Maridueña ('Blue Beetle') and Solly McLeod ('The Dead Don't Hurt') have joined the ensemble. Joey King ('The Act') was previously reported as being part of the cast. Susanne Bier ('Bird Box') is directing from a screenplay co-written by Akiva Goldsman, who also co-wrote the original, and Georgia Pritchett ('Succession'). Griffin Dunne directed the first film, but isn't helming this follow-up. The first 'Practical Magic' was not a commercial success, earning $68.3 million worldwide against its $75 million budget. However, it developed a cult following on home entertainment. In an age of diminishing IP, that's enough to justify a sequel. Production is currently underway on 'Practical Magic 2,' which will be released in theaters on September 18, 2026. Deadline first reported the casting of Wiest, Channing and the other new ensemble members. Best of Variety Oscars 2026: George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez, Julia Roberts, Wagner Moura and More Among Early Contenders to Watch New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week 'Harry Potter' TV Show Cast Guide: Who's Who in Hogwarts? Solve the daily Crossword
Daily Mail
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Practical Magic star reveals shocking reason she WON'T return for sequel with Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock
Practical Magic is set to return for a sequel expected in 2026, but one of its major stars has revealed that she won't be a part of it. While the sequel to the 1998 romantic fantasy film has locked in its two lead actresses, Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock, Evan Rachel Wood is clarifying why fans shouldn't expect to see her in the sequel. The 37-year-old Westworld star — who in recent years accused her ex-boyfriend Marilyn Manson of sexually abusing her — announced in an Instagram Stories post on Saturday that it wasn't her choice not to reprise her role as Kylie Owens, the oldest daughter of Sally Owens (Bullock). 'I am getting asked about this a lot, so l'll just clear it up now; I was not asked to come back and be in the #PracticalMagic sequel,' Wood shared in a text post. 'l offered my services, even if it was one scene or one line.' 'I was told they are re-casting. I am sorry to disappoint the fans,' she continued. 'It was not in my control or my choice. I would have happily rejoined my sisters.' In the film, Wood's character Kylie and her younger sister Antonia (Alexandra Artrip) go to live with their aunts (played by Stockard Channing and Dianne Wiest) after their father dies. Practical Magic is set to return for a sequel expected in 2026 , but one of its major stars has revealed that she won't be a part of it; Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman pictured in the 1998 original He's believed to be the victim of a curse set on the family of witches that targets any man that the women in the family fall in love with. But things become complicated for Kylie's mother after she falls in love with a new man (played by Aidan Quinn), while Kidman's character has to battle an abusive boyfriend who tries to retain control of her from beyond the grave. So far, the two lead actress have confirmed that they'll return for a sequel, and Channing and Wiest have also been nailed down. It was previously reported that Joey King will be joining the series as one of Sally's daughters. Details about the casting has been kept under wraps, and it's unclear if King will be playing Wood or Artrip's character. On Friday, Deadline reported that Maisie Williams would also be joining the sequel in an unnamed role. Other new stars include Lee Pace, Blue Beetle's Xolo Maridueña and Solly McLeod. The filmmaking team behind the upcoming sequel, which includes director Susanne Bier, said in a statement: 'Twenty-five years ago, Sally, Gillian, Aunt Jet and Aunt Franny flew off the pages of Alice Hoffman's beloved novel and into theaters around the world, and we are thrilled to bring the Owens family back to the big screen with Joey, Lee, Maisie, Solly and Xolo joining the next chapter in our story. Wood accused her ex Marilyn Manson of sexually abusing her during their relationship in recent years. After she came forward he filed a defamation lawsuit against her, but he dropped the suit in November of last year and agreed to pay all of her legal fees; seen together in 2007 in Toronto 'The enduring affection for these characters has been our inspiration to deliver the next installment in the Owens' story to new fans, and those who've been with us since the beginning,' they added. The first Practical Magic was directed by the actor Griffin Dunne. Surprisingly, the original film was a box office disappointment that received largely negative reviews, though Dunne has said the studio interfered with his vision for it and has suggested that a director's cut could be released if the studio supported it. However, the film has seen a rise in popularity over the years, and it later became a popular title on streaming. In addition to acting, Wood has been a dedicated activist in recent years for sexual assault survivors. In 2018, she described having been sexually abused by an ex-boyfriend in testimony before the US House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, Homeland Security and Investigations, and she alleged the following year before the California State Senate that she had been describing her ex Marilyn Manson, whom she dated from 2007 to 2010. After she appeared in a 2022 HBO documentary about the allegations, Manson filed a defamation lawsuit against her, but in November he dropped his lawsuit and agreed to pay all of her legal fees. In January of this year, the Los Angeles district attorney's office announced that it would not be filing charges against Manson, who was accused of sexual misconduct by multiple other women, citing a lack of evidence.
Yahoo
13-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
‘Practical Magic 2' — Everything We Know So Far
Something magical is brewing over at Warner Bros. Last year, it was first announced that Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock were nearing a deal with the studio to make a long-awaited follow-up to their witchy 1996 romantic fantasy 'Practical Magic.' Then, teases trickled out for a few months before, and unexpectedly, WB dropped a teaser on social media in May, sending fans into a whirlwind. The original film, which did not make a profit in its initial theatrical run, went on to become a staple of aughts cable television, brewing up generations of fans and becoming a cult favorite. More from IndieWire James Gunn Cast Bradley Cooper for 'Superman' Cameo Because He 'Could Walk in the Footsteps' of Brando Karlovy Vary Reveals 2025 Festival Winners, with Films from Iran, Czech Republic, and More The logical next question, then, was who — besides the now-Oscar-winning Kidman and Bullock — would be returning to the quaint Owens sisters' Massachusetts home for the next adventure. In 1998, the cast included Goran Visnjic, Dianne Wiest, Stockard Channing, Aidan Quinn, Evan Rachel Wood, and Margo Martindale. Visnjic's character, Jimmy, would seem unlikely since (spoiler alert) he's dead. But everyone else? On July 11, fans learned that the main supporting cast members, and the co-conspirators in the above-mentioned 'Midnight Margaritas,' were officially on board — Wiest and Channing. In the movie, they play Kidman and Bullock's aunts, who teach the young witches everything they need to know about their craft — and then some. Additionally, new members of the movie's coven have since been announced — though what roles they'll play is yet unknown. Joining will be Lee Pace, Maisie Williams, Xolo Maridueña, and Solly McLeod. Of the original cast, only Wood — won played Bullock's daughter in the 1998 film — has spoken about whether or not she is participating. On July 11, Wood took to Instagram to reveal that (via People), 'I offered my services, even if it was one scene or one line… I was told they are re-casting. I am sorry to disappoint the fans. It was not in my control or my choice. I would have happily rejoined my sisters.' The original film was based on the 1995 novel by Alice Hoffman, who later wrote two prequels and one sequel, 'The Book of Magic' in 2021. No indications have been made if the movie will follow the plot of this book, though the script comes from the original film's co-writer, Akiva Goldsman. Oscar- and Emmy-winner Susanne Bier, who worked with Bullock on 'Bird Box' and Kidman on 'The Undoing' and 'The Perfect Couple,' will direct. 'Practical Magic 2' will be released on September 18, 2026. Best of IndieWire Guillermo del Toro's Favorite Movies: 56 Films the Director Wants You to See 'Song of the South': 14 Things to Know About Disney's Most Controversial Movie Nicolas Winding Refn's Favorite Films: 37 Movies the Director Wants You to See
The Review Geek
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Review Geek
Has The Haunted Palace been renewed for Season 2? Here's what we know:
Summary The Haunted Palace is the latest K-drama from SBS. This historical K-drama has everything from comedy and possessions to evil grudges and first love. K-dramas usually have 1 season but this is changing due to global popularity like that of Penthouse, Taxi Driver and Squid Game. As of now, there's no news regarding the renewal of The Haunted Palace, but we look at the possibility of a Season 2. The Haunted Palace is another exciting K-drama from SBS which is known for fun sageuks like Moon Lovers, Lovers of the Red Sky and The Secret Romantic Guesthouse. Said to be a romantic fantasy drama, it has everything from supernatural possession and mysteries to first love and comedy. The 16-episode season stars Yook Sung-jae, Bona and Kim Ji-hoon among others. It is helmed by director Yoon Sung-shik who is known for iconic historical dramas like Hwarang and Mr Queen. With shocking revelations and plot twists, the season finale is bound to have viewers on the edge of their seats. If you're watching the first season and want to know if there will be a second, this article has all the details you're looking for. Here's everything we know: What is The Haunted Palace Season 1 about? The K-drama follows three Joseon characters who come from different walks of life but are forced to work together to get rid of dangerous spirits plaguing the capital and the royal family. Yoon Gap is a handsome and efficient official who gets possessed by an Imugi who had once stalked a shaman family. And guess who is brought in to exorcise spirits in the palace? Yeo-ri, the same shaman girl who was harassed by the Imugi and also happens to be Yoon Gap's first love. But they must put their differences aside and join hands with King Lee Sung to save the palace. A reformist who wants to create a strong nation, the king takes it upon himself to get rid of all corruption while refusing to believe that supernatural beings exist. We have ongoing coverage of The Haunted Palace on the site, including recaps for all episodes. You can find those HERE! Has The Haunted Palace Been Renewed for Season 2? At the time of writing, The Haunted Palace has not been renewed for season 2. While the K-drama industry is changing its format, we are yet to see multiple-season shows. Sure, dramas like Strong Girl Nam-soon, Doctor Romantic and Taxi Driver 2 appear to be an exception thanks to their roaring success. But it is unlikely that we will get The Haunted Palace season 2 at the moment, especially since SBS historical K-drama sequels are pretty rare. What do we know about The Haunted Palace Season 2? Not much is known about The Haunted Palace Season 2 at the moment given that it has not been greenlit. A prequel could explore Gangcheori's past, the previous King's rule or even the attack on Yongdam Village. There is also plenty of material for a sequel as the shamans go about resolving supernatural incidents around the country. If the K-drama does return, you can expect a season with approximately 16 episodes, each lasting around 50 minutes. However, nothing is confirmed yet, but we'll be sure to update this page as soon as any new information comes in. Would you like to see The Haunted Palace return for a second season? Or do you think the story has run its course? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Forbes
11-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
‘Heavenly Ever After' Review: A Heartwarming And Terrifying K-Drama
One of this year's most unique and original K-dramas is Heavenly Ever After, a quirky romantic fantasy from Studio Phoenix and SLL that vividly imagines life after death. Directed by Kim Seok-yoon (My Liberation Notes, Law School) and co-written by Lee Nam-kyu (Daily Dose of Sunshine) and Kim Su-jin, the 12-episode series features a star-studded cast led by the legendary Kim Hye-ja (Mother, Our Blues), Son Suk-ku (A Killer Paradox, My Liberation Notes), Han Ji-min (Love Scout, Yonder), Lee Jung-eun (Parasite, Miss Night and Day) and Cheon Ho-jin (Beyond Evil, My Liberation Notes). After an accident leaves her husband Ko Nak-joon paralyzed and bedridden, Lee Hae-sook (Kim Hye-ja) spends most of her adult years working as a loan shark to support her family. She passes soon after her husband's death and enters Heaven, where she's given the option to choose the age she'd like to appear as while living there. Hae-sook decides to remain as her 80-year-old self, since her late husband had mentioned that she was the prettiest at that age. But when she reunites with her husband in Heaven, she's mortified to find him as a 30-year-old. Nak-joon (Son Suk-ku) is also initially shocked at their age gap but nevertheless shows her unwavering affection. With his help, Hae-sook learns to adjust to her new life in Heaven. Along the way, she meets some of its other residents, including some familiar faces from her past. Many other K-dramas have also addressed the afterlife, but Heavenly Ever After sets itself apart by incorporating a wide variety of genres like comedy, slice of life, romance, fantasy and even horror while nimbly alternating between extremes. You might find yourself bawling at a heartwarming scene in one episode, while another episode (ahem, Episode 5) might have you shrieking from terror at watching people being tormented in Hell. The series invites viewers to contemplate questions about the hereafter. What might happen to us when we die? What might Heaven and Hell be like? What sorts of regrets might we carry with us when we pass away? Would going to Heaven give us a second chance at life and an opportunity to realize our unfulfilled dreams? And perhaps most importantly: Do all dogs really go to Heaven? What if people could reunite with their pets in the afterworld, and what might that look like? One particularly touching moment in Episode 2 explores this to great effect: (I dare you not to cry while watching this!) When Netflix posted this clip on its official Facebook page, thousands of netizens—many of whom weren't even previously aware of this K-drama—commented on its emotional impact. The scene itself is only a little over three minutes long, but it apparently reduced many viewers (including myself) to a puddle of tears. And it's not the only scene in the show involving our furry four-legged friends that will likely melt your heart. Heavenly Ever After portrays the afterlife in clever detail, drawing heavily on earthly references to make it more relatable for audiences while also injecting some humor into an otherwise mysterious and often dreaded subject. Who knew you could ride the subway or take a taxi to Heaven or Hell, for instance? Or that Heaven would have security checkpoints like the ones found at airports? When Hae-sook asks the man who arrives at her funeral if he's the Grim Reaper, he remarks, 'They used to call us that, but not anymore' before wryly adding that everything in the great beyond is also automated, 'so they don't need Grim Reapers anymore.' Though the show has plenty of amusing moments (including some hilarious puns that unfortunately get lost in translation), it also offsets this levity through its nightmarish, morbid depiction of the underworld in the fifth episode. Graphic scenes of the condemned being crushed to death, having their tongues ripped out repeatedly or falling into a boiling cauldron of molten metal—all of which are based on the major hells of Buddhism—are more gruesome and terrifying than Dante's Nine Circles of Hell or anything found in Christianity. As with many other K-dramas, Heavenly Ever After also features sharp commentary on some of South Korea's thorniest societal ills, including voice phishing scams, religious cults, corrupt politicians and familicides (which often occur when parents take their lives along with their children's to prevent them from being orphaned and neglected). No critique of modern-day South Korean society would arguably be complete without at least mentioning celebrity suicides and cyberbullying, which the show addresses at length towards the end of Episode 5. In fact, King Yeomra, the lord of the underworld in Korean mythology, has even reserved a special place in Hell for those who engage in cyberbullying. Even journalists who destroy the reputations of public figures aren't spared punishment, as seen in the scene below: What ensues is an ingeniously creative yet shockingly gory sequence showing a giant King Yeomra crushing their faces with his fingertips as he taps away on a human keyboard. As a journalist myself, I have to admit that this scene cut really deep. It provides a glimpse into why the press are often loathed in South Korean society and why journalism—especially entertainment journalism—as a profession is still frowned upon by many (but not all) Koreans. Even though I've personally never written a hit piece (and would never think of doing such a thing), it's still painful to be lumped together in the same category in the minds of some Koreans. But anyway, I digress… It's also worth noting that the show suggests that suicide doesn't automatically condemn one to Hell. Instead, punishment is reserved for those who take another's life without consent or cause someone to commit suicide. (In South Korea many people have a different perspective on suicide than those in the West; for a detailed explanation, check out this insightful essay by Korean American writer YJ Jun.) Aside from painting a disturbingly lurid portrait of Hell, Heavenly Ever After comes across as very quirky and a bit slow-paced at times, but it's a deeply heartwarming and thought-provoking show overall. For anyone who's ever lost a loved one, the series is definitely worth watching. Just keep a large box of tissues nearby. Heavenly Ever After is currently streaming on Netflix in select regions.
