Review of Mary Poppins Returns (2018) by Ranny L — 12 Jan 2019
Mary Poppins Returns is a charming musical filled to the brim with imagination and whimsy. It is quite entertaining and Emily Blunt is very good as the magical, manners-focused nanny.
The storyline follows the title character as she returns to the Banksï¿ 1/2 1/2(TM) family home, decades later. Siblings Michael and Jane Banks are grown up. Michael, with kids of his own and mourning the loss of his wife, is about to lose the home that they have lived in since they were children. Poppins descends from the London sky, ready to help the Banksï¿ 1/2 1/2(TM) family with their plight and teach Michaelï¿ 1/2 1/2(TM)s kids to use their imaginations and improve their manners. The bank has given Michael a few days to pay off his house, setting off a countdown for Poppins, the Banks and a lamplighter named Jack to save the home.
The story is interesting. Michael Banks has hit rock bottom. His wife has tragically passed away and heï¿ 1/2 1/2(TM)s about to lose the home he has lived in since childhood. The only thing that brings him joy is the comfort and company of his family. Itï¿ 1/2 1/2(TM)s a sad place to start, but it's a great scenario for Mary Poppins to come to work her magic. The idea of losing your home is pretty realistic and the contrast with such a fantastical protagonist and situation, provides an aspect that I quite enjoyed.
Emily Blunt is very good as Mary Poppins. She puts her own twist on the character, yet you can still trace it back to the earlier onscreen depiction of Poppins. Blunt gives the character a sharper, comedic edge. Her Poppins is much more witty and sarcastic, but still gives a sense of compassion and care for those around her. Blunt really dives into the role and cements her portrayal in a charismatic way. She steals the show in nearly every scene.
I recommend Mary Poppins Returns for ages 5 to 18, due to some dark themes. Adults and fans of the original Mary Poppins will enjoy this film. I give it 3.5 out of 5 stars. The film has lots of charm and itï¿ 1/2 1/2(TM)s great to see Poppins sail back onto the screen once again.
Reviewed by Benjamin P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org.
This review of Mary Poppins Returns (2018) was written by Ranny L on 12 January 2019.
Mary Poppins Returns has generally received positive reviews.
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