IN FIFTH GRADE, OUT ON THE playground, a classmate called me a derogatory name based on my religion. I went back inside the school building before recess was over, to tell my teacher what happened to me. She listened then asked me to look at my hands, front and back. After I did this, she asked if my hands looked dirty. When I said they did not, she said I was not dirty and to ignore that classmate because he does not know what he is talking about. Knowing what I know now, I do not believe that was the best way back then to handle the situation and I will tell you why. From that point on back in fifth grade, I soon learned that people out there can hate someone just because they are of a different religion, sexual orientation, or race. There were many situations throughout my school years where I avoided talking about certain aspects of my life, knowing that I was in the minority of those around me. There was a “church” in our neighborhood, where I grew up, where some of its students formed a gang and would come to our school to start a fight with us because we were not of the same faith. Not being strong and assertive, I chose to hide certain aspects of myself to avoid any confrontations. And I did this for decades.      THE AMOUNT OF ENERGY IT TAKES to remain hidden can be overwhelming. Just because of the way I was born, I had to endure being beaten up, bullied, pushed down staircases, stabbed, and various other acts of violence. At one of the lowest levels of my life, I felt I was cursed. Every waking school day, especially during high school, was filled with dread and fear. The reality shows that are aired on television currently, are no match for what I went through daily just to survive and make it back home from school without having a new bruise, cut, or a rip in my clothing. It was not until I was in my upper years of my college education that I began to slowly lose the fear and begin the process of accepting myself. Of course, there were setbacks; however, I discovered places where I could feel safe and accepted. My feelings about being cursed slowly dissipated. Because of the perspective I gained, I feel I have a good understanding what one of the main characters was going through in this romantic, fantasy comedy.      A DARK CURSE WHICH HAS PLAGUED a family for generations is about to threaten the very existence of the current family members. Strong bonds are needed if there is any hope for the family to survive. With Sandra Bullock (Gravity, The Unforgivable) as Sally Owens, Nicole Kidman (Babygirl, Rabbit Hole) as Gillian Owens, Dianne Wiest (The Birdcage, Edward Scissorhands) as Jet, Stockard Channing (Grease, Where the Heart Is) as Franny, and Joey King (A Family Affair, Bullet Train) as Kylie; I cannot recall whether I saw the original film from twenty-eight years ago. I simply have no memory of it. Despite it, I found this supernatural comedic drama to be an easy watch, even if the script was simple and predictable. What kept my interest most was the cast; they not only worked well together, they each took turns being in the spotlight, being the main focus on screen. I am guessing those that enjoyed the first movie might be a bit disappointed with this one. For some reason, I was expecting or hoping there would be more magic and drama. As I said earlier, the script was basic with no frills or thrills. I do not feel one needs to see and pay full price to watch this sequel on the big screen. But, if you had the free time and it was a bargain price ticket, it would not be the worst thing you could do while having a slow week for yourself.

2 1/2 stars