Practical Magic Put The Lime In The Coconut
Practical Magic is a 1998 romantic comedy-drama film starring Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, and Stockard Channing. Based on the novel of the same name by Alice Hoffman, the film tells the story of two sisters who are witches and the challenges they face in their love lives. One of the most memorable scenes in the movie is when the sisters use the song "Put The Lime In The Coconut" in a ritual to cure a man possessed by a spirit. Let's take a closer look at this iconic moment in the film.
The Origins of "Put The Lime In The Coconut"
"Put The Lime In The Coconut" is a song originally released by Harry Nilsson in 1971. The song's lyrics tell the story of a doctor who is called in to cure a man who has a stomach ache. The doctor tells the man's wife to put the lime in the coconut and drink them both together, which will supposedly cure the man's ailment. The song has a catchy melody and has become a favorite among fans of 70s music.
The Scene in Practical Magic
In the movie, Sally and Gillian Owens (played by Bullock and Kidman respectively) are trying to help Sally's love interest, Michael, who has been possessed by the spirit of an ex-lover. They perform a spell that involves putting a lime into Michael's mouth and then chanting "Put the lime in the coconut and drink it all up." As they sing, Michael begins to convulse and then vomits up the spirit, effectively curing him. The scene is both comedic and dramatic, and has become one of the most iconic moments in the film.
The Significance of the Song
"Put The Lime In The Coconut" is a perfect song to use in this scene because it has a light-hearted and whimsical tone that balances out the darker elements of the story. The song's lyrics also have a certain mysticism to them, which fits in well with the theme of the movie. The use of the song in the ritual underscores the idea that magic can be found in everyday things, and that sometimes the simplest solutions can be the most effective.
The Legacy of Practical Magic
Practical Magic has become a cult classic over the years, thanks in part to scenes like the one involving "Put The Lime In The Coconut." The movie has inspired countless Halloween costumes, fan art, and even a prequel novel called "The Rules of Magic." The film's enduring popularity is a testament to its unique blend of humor, romance, and magic.