Cast
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Julie Andrews
as Mary Poppins
Dick Van Dyke
as Bert / Mr. Dawes Sr.
David Tomlinson
as Mr. Banks
Glynis Johns
as Mrs. Banks
Hermione Baddeley
as Ellen
Karen Dotrice
as Jane Banks
Matthew Garber
as Michael Banks
Elsa Lanchester
as Katie Nanna
Arthur Treacher
as Constable
Reginald Owen
as Admiral Boom
Ed Wynn
as Uncle Albert
Reta Shaw
as Mrs. Brill
Arthur Malet
as Mr. Dawes Jr.
Jane Darwell
as Bird Woman
James Logan
as Bank Doorman
Crew
Director
- Robert Stevenson
Reviews
DanDare
Set in Edwardian London, Jane and Michael Banks are two children in a middle class London suburb. Their parents are distant from the children and each nanny they employ leaves in exasperation after the chaos the children cause.
The children's father is a banker who is cold towards them and their mother is too busy with the suffragette movement.They want the perfect nanny and in a sudden gust of wind, Mary Poppins drops by. She possesses magical powers such as a bottomless handbag. Mary Poppins changes the life of the children and also meets up with her friend Bert, the one man band.
Mary Poppins combines live action with Disney animation as well as some memorable songs and in Dick Van Dyke an unforgettable cockney accent.
The movie is regarded as a Disney classic but I found the animation to be below average, the film overlong and not all that amusing.
Mar 4, 2017
Andre Gonzales
Of course everyone knows Mary Poppins. Loved it growing up. My family loves it now. I also still love this movie. I always will. Classic!
Jul 18, 2023
CinemaSerf
I don't think I'd ever actually watched this film all the way through before, but it is well worth it. "Jane" (Karen Dotrice) and brother "Michael" (Matthew Garber) are ploughing through their nannies with Von Trapp style enthusiasm when father "George" (David Tomlinson) decides to wrest control of the recruitment process from suffragette wife "Winnifred" (Glynis Johns) to hopefully find a more permanent solution. They come up with the text for an advertisement in "The Times". Meantime, the children come up with their own, much more playful, agenda. The parents listen politely then, quite literally, up the chimney that goes. Straight into the hands of our eponymous, brolly wielding, nanny (Julie Andrews) who duly arrives and within five minutes has just about everyone eating our of her hands. What now ensues is a gently comedic series of escapades as the kids meet friendly chimneysweep "Bert" (Dick Van Dyke), the giggling-obsessed "Uncle Albert" (Ed Wynn), the lady who feeds the birds (Jane Darwell) all whilst being looked after from above by the meticulous "Admiral Boom" (Reginald Owen) - his eight o'clock gun will do more than clear the air. The Sherman brothers are on top form with some toe-tappers and delightful ballads that are sung by the cast we can see, often accompanied by some magical visual effects or some ensemble dances, and they help to convey a story of love, kindness and affection, of curiosity and ultimately, I felt anyway, of keeping things in perspective. Of getting your priorities straight. Sure, the animation section in the zoo is maybe a little bit long, but for the most part this 2¼ hour long extravaganza is engagingly entertaining with Andrews and Van Dyke creating a chemistry all of their own; a practically perfect supporting cast - particularly Johns - and a story that glows in it's own simplicity.
Jan 1, 2024
Thematic Analysis
Mary Poppins represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family/Fantasy cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Robert Stevenson brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1964, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Mary Poppins took approximately 24 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $4.7 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 139 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 171 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 12 months to complete.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1964, when this film was released:
- Counterculture movements were challenging traditional values.
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Mary Poppins shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Little Witch, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Mary Poppins offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Porch Pirates and Tales from the Neverending Story: The Gift explore similar territory, Mary Poppins stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 17, 1964
- Runtime: 2h 19m
- Budget: $4,650,000
- Revenue: $103,100,000
Where to Watch
