Thousands of fans gathered at Hollywood Forever Cemetery on Saturday night for Cinespia’s sold-out screening of Practical Magic, expecting nothing more than an evening under the stars with one of the most beloved cult classics of all time. Instead, they were treated to the surprise of the night when Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman walked onstage to introduce the film.
The screams somehow got even louder when Practical Magic 2 stars Joey King and Maisie Williams joined them.
King and Williams appeared carrying margaritas for Bullock and Kidman before the four stars invited the audience to raise a glass with them in a midnight margarita toast, courtesy of Astral Tequila. It was the perfect tribute to one of the movie’s most iconic moments.
“Thank you so much for coming out tonight!” Bullock told the crowd. “This is the perfect movie to show at a cemetery.
“You should also thank the spirits that are floating around us as well because you are on their seats, so just, move over.”
Kidman also reminded everyone why the moment felt so special.
“Thank you for all your support for getting this second film made that’s coming to you very soon,” she said, drawing another wave of cheers from the audience. Can you believe Practical Magic 2 is right around the corner? Time to gather your coven and get your brooms ready.
The surprise appearance set the tone for what turned into one of Cinespia’s most magical nights of the summer.
Witch Hats, Umbrellas and Midnight Margaritas
The grounds of Hollywood Forever Cemetery felt like stepping straight into the world of the Owens family. Everywhere you looked were fans dressed as witches, wearing flowing black dresses, velvet capes, corsets and pointed hats. Groups of friends wandered the grounds taking photos, casting spells, and soaking up every bit of the atmosphere before the opening credits rolled.
One of the biggest hits of the night was a photo experience recreating the film’s iconic Halloween scene, giving fans the chance to pose with umbrellas just like the Owens women as they “jumped” from the roof. Other themed photo ops invited fans deeper into the world of the Owens family, while nearby vendors sold apothecary-inspired goods, witchy accessories and enchanting souvenirs.
Of course, the midnight margaritas weren’t the only thing on the menu. Guests also grabbed classic movie snacks like popcorn, hot dogs and candy before spreading blankets across the cemetery lawn for the screening.
A Los Angeles Tradition
For longtime Angelenos, nights like these are exactly why Cinespia has become such a beloved tradition. Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, the organization has spent decades turning iconic Los Angeles locations into unforgettable movie experiences. What began as the city’s first outdoor screening series now hosts more than 30 events each year at venues including Hollywood Forever Cemetery, the Rose Bowl, the Greek Theatre and Los Angeles State Historic Park, attracting everyone from devoted movie lovers to Hollywood celebrities.
If you missed this one, don’t worry. The anniversary season continues with screenings of Labyrinth, Josie and the Pussycats, The Sandlot and Goodfellas, giving fans plenty more opportunities to spend a night at the movies under the stars.
Saturday also served as the perfect kickoff for Practical Magic 2, which arrives in theaters this September. The sequel reunites Bullock and Kidman as Sally and Gillian Owens while introducing King and Williams as members of the next generation of the magical family, continuing the story of the Owens women as they confront new challenges tied to their family’s extraordinary legacy.
If the reaction inside Hollywood Forever Cemetery was any indication, audiences are more than ready to return to the Owens house.
