Review of The Nanny Diaries (2007) by Mimi S — 23 Jan 2014

I don't understand why this movie has such bad reviews; I actually thought that it was a really nice film; it was a bit like the Devil Wears Prada. I even thought that Scarlett Johansson was half decent in this. I still think that she's a bad actress and for her it's sex appeal over talent; by no means was she amazing, but she actually put some emotion into her role and connected really well with the kid. The film is about Annie Braddock (played by Scar Jo), 21-year-old anthropology graduate who gets a job as a nanny on the affluent upper east side, looking after a five-year-old boy called Grayer. Grayer's parents pay him little attention and hand him over to a succession of nannies. Annie's boss, Mrs X (played by Laura Linney) reminds me very much of Miranda Priestly from the Devil Wears Prada. Laura Linney plays the role as the dragon boss really well; her shrilling voice constantly calling "nanny" would be enough to drive me crazy if I was her employee. Annie develops a bond with little Grayer and gives him the love and attention that his parents don't give him. As well as being self obsessed his parents' are dealing with their own marital problems.

I found the film really moving and poignant; it shows how important it is for parents to spend time with their children. Although I don't want kids I always said if I had kids I'd get a full time nanny, but by palming your kids off onto a nanny, you're missing out on them growing up, especially when they need you most. The scene where Grayer is devastated when Annie is fired is heartbreaking, especially when he's grown so close to her. Mr and Mrs X just treat Annie like a slave and nobody important nor do they care that their son has developed such a bond with her; they don't even refer to Annie by her name, just as "nanny"! This really is like the Devil Wears Prada of nannying.

This film truly shows that money doesn't buy love or happiness. There's a lot to learn from this film and the ending is really sweet and touching. There are some cliché bits in the film, of course they're going to throw a hot guy in the mix, a love interest for Annie, the Harvard Hottie (played by Chris Evans). Also I had no idea that Alicia Keys is an actress, in this she plays Annie's best friend Lynette. Other than that this is a really lovely film, ignore the bad reviews, I really recommend this film.

Grade: A.