Review of Mary Poppins (1964) by James R — 04 Mar 2018

Kinda hard to believe I haven't seen Mary Poppins in full until just now. I think the movie runs about 30 minutes too long with some sections in the middle that can be entirely cut out, but hey it was a movie ahead of its time that may be a bit dated now, but features a great lead, story and some catchy songs.

Mary Poppins (Julie Andrews) a sort of magical person shows up on the doorsteps of the Banks family who are in need of a new nanny. Jane (Karen Dotrice) and Michael (Matthew Garber) are two mischievous kids who don't feel close to their father George (David Tomlinson) a banker who is always busy working.

Their mother Winnifred (Glynis Johns) is busy fighting for womens rights and is sorta a very minor character in this all. Anywho, Mary shows up and shows the kids how to act properly and how to have fun while doing it.

She brings them on some adventures that they could only ever could imagine along with the help of a very talented chimney sweeper named Bert (Dick Van Dyke). The movie has some great musical numbers and there's a great story here about taking the time to realize what's important to you.

We learn next to nothing about Mary and why she can do everything she can do. I would have liked to know more about her since she is super mysterious. Van Dyke is absolutely great here and adds a lot of charm.

Andrews is really good as Mary and since then this has become a legendary performance. Overall, solid Disney musical thats great for the family albeit runs a bit too long to keep the youngest people in check.

If you haven't seen this one like I hadn't then I recommend giving it a look!