Gillian Owens, a character in the novel and movie Practical Magic, represents a complex and intriguing depiction of a modern witch. Gillian is portrayed as a free-spirited and independent woman who lives life on her own terms. However, beneath her carefree facade lies a troubled past and a deep yearning for love and connection. Gillian's character is shaped by her tumultuous upbringing in a family of witches. Raised by her aunts, who possess their own unique magical abilities, Gillian has inherited their magical skills and wisdom. However, she is also burdened by the Owens family curse, which states that any man who falls in love with an Owens woman is doomed to an untimely death.
[after they make a binder ring snap on a mother's finger] Sally Owens : [to Gillian] Don't do that. Gillian Owens : It wasn't me, it was you! [Both giggling] Sara : Oh I am so please to report this, and the top of the phone tree list is. wait a minute, it's Sally Owens. [confused; flips through phone tree and finds Sally's name at the top of each list] Gillian Owens : Wooo! Go, Sal! [aside to Sally] Gillian Owens : Now that was me!
In the book, Gillian and Sally were reunited after years apart when Gillian s boyfriend turns from angry and aggressive to downright abusive, and Gillian showed up on Sally s doorstep. The climax of the film is when Sally, the aunts, and a group of women from the town who are on the school phone tree help empower the spell so that the haunting ends, and Gillian breaks free of Jimmy s hold on her.
However, she is also burdened by the Owens family curse, which states that any man who falls in love with an Owens woman is doomed to an untimely death. This curse weighs heavily on Gillian's relationships, as she fears falling in love and causing harm to those around her. Despite her fear of love, Gillian finds herself entangled in a series of unhealthy relationships.
Practical Magic: Gillian Owens
I previously professed my love for Practical Magic in the post for Sally Owens. What I didn’t touch on in that post is the fashion in this movie. I’ve either always been more of a Gillian or I’ve subconsciously stocked my wardrobe with her style in the past 20+ years. I thought about doing this character for the finale this year because I have so many of her outfits already, but we’ll see what ends up being last this time around. Another thing I noticed when putting this together is that Gillian is basically barefoot for this entire movie. Also, this is the second Nicole Kidman character I’ve done along with Grace Stewart from The Others.
Shoes: N/A
Black Floral Scarf used as a Beach Wrap Skirt
Shoes: N/A
Shoes: N/A
Outfit: This top was part of a Forever21 set with pants and a mask, but I altered the shirt to take off the mock turtleneck to better suit my style.
Shoes: N/A
Makeup:
Accessories: Sure, you could buy a “screen accurate” Tiger’s Eye and Crystal Quartz Wand Necklace for $85 or you can take some tiger’s eye beads you already have on hand and make yourself a necklace & earrings set like I did.
Accessories: Retro Oval Sunglasses that aren’t blocking shit for your eyes and are mainly for fashion.
Prop 1: Wax-Stamped Letter
Prop 2: Tequila and Perfect Margarita Cocktail Syrup to make Midnight Margaritas!
After my dad died from our family’s curse, my mom died from a broken heart, so my sister and I moved in with our Aunts.
I love my family, but I couldn’t handle the small-town mentality. I dipped as soon as I could, but I still write my sister letters.
“I’m lying in the sun. I’m hanging by the pool. I’ve got a million friends. You might say that life is perfect. But I don’t care about any of it. In fact, I only have 2 words to say to you: Jimmy Angelov.”
“He’s from somewhere near Transylvania. He has this whole Dracula-cowboy thing about him. He’s just so intense. I mean, he talks about our relationship in terms of centuries. Sometimes we just stay up all night worshipping each other like bats. Thank God for Jet’s belladonna or I’d never get any sleep.”
I make it home to see the fam and even stop by a PTA meeting. I tell the townswomen: “Hang onto your husbands, girls!’
Even though it is not all roses, we find time to sneak in a Girls’ Night™️ with some Midnight Margaritas!
Catch me back here tomorrow for another post.
In the meantime, check out the Practical Magic Vibes board on Pinterest.
Prop 1: Wax-Stamped Letter
She is drawn to charismatic and dangerous men who ultimately bring her pain and heartbreak. These experiences only deepen Gillian's longing for love and reinforce her belief in the curse. However, it is through these trials that Gillian learns important lessons about self-worth and the importance of choosing love wisely. Gillian's journey is also marked by her close relationship with her sister, Sally. The bond between the two sisters is a central theme in the story, as they navigate their magical abilities and the challenges of love and family. Gillian and Sally complement each other, with Gillian representing the wild and rebellious side, while Sally embodies stability and responsibility. Together, they form a powerful force as they confront their past, heal old wounds, and ultimately find the strength to break free from the curse that has plagued their family for generations. In the end, Gillian's character arc highlights the themes of self-discovery, love, and empowerment. Through her journey, she learns to let go of her fear and embrace love, understanding that true love is not a curse but a gift. Gillian's story serves as a reminder that we all have the power to break free from the limitations placed upon us and create our own destiny. Her practical magic lies not just in her ability to cast spells, but in her ability to embrace her true self and find love and happiness on her own terms..
Reviews for "Mastering the Art of Practical Magic: Insights from Gillian Owens"
1. Emily - 1/5 - I was really disappointed with "Gilliab Owens's Practical Magic". I had heard so many good things about it, but in my opinion, it fell flat. The story felt disjointed, and I couldn't connect with any of the characters. The magical elements that were supposed to add intrigue and excitement to the plot were underdeveloped and felt forced. The pacing was also off, with certain parts dragging on while others felt rushed. Overall, I found the book to be unengaging and unsatisfying.
2. Michael - 2/5 - "Gilliab Owens's Practical Magic" didn't live up to my expectations. The writing was lackluster, with repetitive imagery and overused metaphors. The plot was predictable and lacked any real depth. The romance elements felt forced and unnatural, and the characters were one-dimensional. I also found the portrayal of magic to be cliché and unoriginal. I was hoping for a captivating and immersive read, but unfortunately, this book fell short for me.
3. Jessica - 2/5 - I wanted to enjoy "Gilliab Owens's Practical Magic", but I just couldn't get into it. The writing style felt choppy and disjointed, making it difficult to follow the storyline. The characters lacked depth and development, and I couldn't connect with any of them. The magical elements that were meant to add a sense of wonder and intrigue felt like an afterthought. Overall, this book failed to capture my attention and left me feeling disappointed. I wouldn't recommend it to others.