Practically Perfect in Every Way

Mary Poppins, the Disney movie based on the books written by British author, P.L. Travers, is an all-time childhood favorite of mine. Yet, it has also become quite popular with my two children, as well. Both of the girls enjoy the fantastical story, dancing and memorable, catchy songs. At the time of its production in 1964, Mary Poppins was actually quite technologically advanced in the way of their special effects. There is not only live action scenes accompanied by a wonderful soundtrack, but animation and charming fantasy to boot!

Mary Poppins comes to work at the Banks’ residence after the children’s former nanny abruptly leaves, she has had quite enough of their rambunctious antics. This household consists of the prim and proper George Banks (David Tomlinson) who has little patience or time for his suffragette wife (Glynis Johns) who is busy with her marches and ladies meetings, let alone his two energetic and inquisitive children (Karen Dotrice, Matthew Garber). Comical relief also comes in the form of the family’s hardworking maid (Hermione Baddeley) and cook (Reta Shaw).

Mary Poppins does not arrive by car, train or buggy, but on a gust of wind. Floating into view toting an umbrella and magical carpetbag to apply for the position of nanny at 17 Cherry Tree Lane. And it doesn’t take long for Jane and Michael Banks to figure out that their new nanny is an extraordinary woman indeed. A self-described practically perfect person, Mary Poppins has a knack for making every chore a game and each day they share together a new adventure.

Whether it be cleaning up their room by the snapping of fingers, dancing upon rooftops with chimney sweeps, jumping into an imaginary world of chalk pictures and attending a county fair or delighting in a floating tea party alongside Mary’s friend Bert (Dick Van Dyke); life has become an adventure and the children are having the time of their lives. Mary Poppins is definitely a breath of fresh air to these two youngsters.

However, their uptight father does not quite find the recent goings on appropriate and quickly attempts to squelch what he believes to be questionable teachings and outings with the new nanny. Little does he realize that his life, priorities and the way in which he too currently looks at the world are about to change in the company and influence of Mary Poppins.

Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke shine in their perspective roles, her voice is delightful and her deliverance mesmerizing. Perhaps best known for his comedic pursuits, Van Dyke proved a capable and talented dancer who can carry a tune well. The myriad of supporting actors/actresses each brought their respective characters to life, no matter the size of the role. David Tomlinson is splendid as the father figure, making the evolution from stuffed shirt banker to man with a new lease on life scenario look effortless. Tomlinson can also be seen as Mr. Emelius Browne in Disney’s 1971 release of Bedknobs and Broomsticks, a similar role to that of his Banks character.

Although Disney went all out to bring about an incredibly wonderful film incorporating both live action and animation, what makes this particular film stand out for me is the unforgettable songs. From A Spoon Full of Sugar, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, Feed the Birds, Let’s Go Fly a Kite to Chim Chim Cheree – these catchy tunes stay with you long after you have placed Mary Poppins back on the shelf for another rainy day of song and dance.

Mary Poppins is a Disney classic, one of the best to date and well worth sharing with the little ones in your life. As a parent, I still enjoy this film and find myself sitting with the girls to watch it right alongside them more often than not. Regardless how many times I have seen this tale I continue to find it delightful and have little doubt that there are many who would disagree with me. Mary Poppins is simply supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and a must see Disney classic.

Oscar Awards Received:

Best Actress in a Leading Role (Julie Andrews)
Best Visual Effects, Special Visual Effects
Best Music, Score - Substantially Original
Best Film Editing
Best Music, Song (Chim Chim Cheree)
And Various Other Nominations

Run Time: 139 minutes

This review is part of the *When You Make A Wish Upon A Star* Disney W/O in support of young Emily, hosted by Lisa_J and Opalman.

Emily Rose, the 15 month old daughter of fellow Epinion member ImAmes, is battling Retniblastoma (a form of cancer, which is found in the eye).

For a clickable list of all entrants please visit:
http://www.isparkl.com/epinions/write_off_easy_reader.asp?id=1

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