Warner Bros. Shifts Release Dates: Practical Magic 2 and Clayface Swap Spots in 2026 Slate

In a surprising but strategic move, Warner Bros. has announced a slight but significant shuffle in its 2026 release calendar, swapping the theatrical debuts of two highly anticipated titles: Practical Magic 2 and Clayface. The change sees the long-awaited witchy sequel move up to September 11, while the Batman villain’s solo horror outing slides into the spooky season spotlight on October 23.

This adjustment isn’t just a minor tweak—it’s a calculated play by the studio to maximize box office potential by aligning each film with its ideal audience and seasonal momentum.

Practical Magic 2 Conjures Earlier Release

Originally slated for September 18, Practical Magic 2 now opens a week earlier on September 11. The sequel to the 1998 cult classic reunites Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as the witchy Owens sisters, with Lee Pace joining the cast in a mysterious new role. The film, directed by Aneesh Chaganty (Searching), promises to blend romance, magic, and a touch of danger in a way that honors the original while expanding its supernatural world.

By moving up its release, Warner Bros. is positioning Practical Magic 2 to kick off its fall genre slate. Historically, early September has been a strong slot for the studio’s horror and supernatural offerings—The Conjuring: Last Rites and Beetlejuice Beetlejuice both thrived in this window, drawing in audiences eager for a cinematic chill as summer fades.

The earlier date also gives Practical Magic 2 a head start before the October horror onslaught, allowing it to capture both nostalgic fans and new viewers looking for a magical escape before Halloween takes over the box office.

Clayface Slithers into Late October

Meanwhile, Clayface—the solo film centered on one of Batman’s most grotesque and tragic villains—has vacated its original September 11 slot in favor of October 23. This new date places the film squarely in the heart of spooky season, just a week before Halloween.

Directed by James Watkins (Speak No Evil) and written by horror auteur Mike Flanagan (the future helmer of The Exorcist), Clayface is shaping up to be a body horror spectacle. The film will explore the tragic origin of Basil Karlo, a failed actor who gains the power to shapeshift—at a horrifying cost. Early leaks and set photos suggest a visceral, unsettling tone, with practical effects and psychological terror at the forefront.

By moving Clayface to late October, Warner Bros. is clearly aiming to capitalize on the Halloween box office rush. The studio is betting that audiences will flock to theaters for a disturbing, atmospheric experience just as the season of scares hits its peak. The move also positions Clayface to potentially replicate the success of films like The Black Phone 2, which dominated the October box office for Universal in a similar timeframe.

A Strategic Shuffle for Maximum Impact

This date swap reflects Warner Bros.’ broader strategy to optimize its genre slate. Practical Magic 2 now has a clear runway to establish itself as the fall’s first major supernatural release, while Clayface can fully embrace its horror identity without competition from other genre films.

The studio’s decision also speaks to the evolving landscape of theatrical releases, where timing and seasonal alignment can make or break a film’s performance. By giving each movie its own distinct moment, Warner Bros. is maximizing the chances for both to thrive.

What’s Next?

With these new dates locked in, all eyes are on Warner Bros. for the first teasers and trailers. Fans are eager to see how Practical Magic 2 will expand its magical universe and whether Clayface will deliver the kind of body horror that lingers long after the credits roll.

As the 2026 release calendar takes shape, one thing is clear: Warner Bros. is doubling down on genre storytelling, and audiences are in for a wild, witchy, and wonderfully weird ride this fall.

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