Mary Poppins

Cast: Dick Van Dyke, Julie Andrews, David Tomlinson, Karen Dotrice and Matthew Garber

Director: Robert Stevenson

Release Date: 1964

Running Time: 2hrs 19 minutes

Genre: Musical

Rating: U

Format: DVD

Synopsis:

The story about a magical nanny that comes to help two neglected children become closer to their father.

Based on the books of the same name by P.L Travers. Set in  London 1910, Walt Disney takes us into the wonderful world of Mary Poppins. Katy Nana has had enough of Jane and Michael wandering off on her watch, she informs Mr Banks straight away of her dismissal. Furious Mr Banks immediately sends out an advertisement for a new nanny, as do his two children Jane and Michael. The woman however that turns up at their door isn't quite what George Banks was expecting. Despite P.L Travers objections towards animation in the film, Walt Disney quite possibly made one of the most magical musicals of all time. Starring the beautiful Julie Andrews as Mary Poppins. Can you believe this was Julie Andrews film debut? Poppins is a very placid and kind woman who has come to save Jane and Michael's father, before it's too late. George Banks is dumbstruck by her presence. Poppins being practically perfect in everyway.

Andrews delivers an incredible performance, wonderfully talented with a smashing personality. The ultimate role model. Her friendship with Bert, a chimney sweep, is charming and sweet. Although Dick Van Dyke doesn't deliver the best British accent, however he still manages to deliver an excellent performance. A jolly man who too, shares a kind friendship with Jane and Michael. Taking them into a magical realm of fairgrounds, penguins and horse races. George Banks is played tremendously by David Tomlinson who you may also recognise from "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" George is a loving father, however sometimes he forgets to show it. Jane and Michael want more then anything to spend time with him.

Jane and Michael are played magnificently by Karen Dotrice and Matthew Garber. It is said that Mary Poppins has come to save George Banks not the children. Did the children really jump into a chalk drawing? Or is it simply a way of Mary Poppins allowing them to cope with their father's neglect? Is it simply just magic? Mary Poppins explains the story beautifully through song including "Feed the birds" and "Stay Awake", despite author P.L Travers disliking what Walt Disney was doing to her beloved book, you've got to hand it to the man, the imagination that came from reading the book is really quite impressive.

Beautifully shot with gorgeous cinematography. Walt Disney's choice of having a animation/real life crossover was an excellent idea. It simply adds to the magic of the film. The storyline has the perfect balance of drama, magic and comedy. Not to mention quite possibly one of the most stunning dance sequences of all time in "Step in time" with Dick Van Dyke as Bert. Walt Disney really allows you to immerse yourself into the story, beautifully mesmerizing. Not to mention quite possibly one of the greatest film soundtracks of all time. One that is certain to have your foot tapping along.

One of Walt Disney's most beloved films. A terrific musical with a touching ending. One for the Disney fans!

5.5 stars