“Once upon a time, a six-year-old boy’s parents rented a VHS cassette from a small video rental store in the Trångsund suburb outside of Stockholm. The movie was Mary Poppins, and the boy was captivated. So much so, that the large neon sign proclaiming “Trångsund centrum” became associated with magic, as it marked the location where he first encountered such cinematic wonder. As the boy grew up, he could scarcely believe that a sequel, Mary Poppins Returns, would ever materialize.”
Two decades later, Jane (Emily Mortimmer) and Michael Banks (Ben Whishaw) are adults. Michael resides in his childhood home on Cherry Tree Lane in London with his three children, Anabel (Pixie Davies), John (Nathanael Saleh), and Georgie (Joel Dawson). A widower for a year, Michael works at the same bank his father once did. His sister, Jane, visits frequently, and their former housekeeper, Ellen (Julie Walters), remains to manage the household. A crisis arises when representatives from the bank arrive, informing Michael that he is a week away from foreclosure due to an unpaid loan. Their appeal to the new bank manager, Wilkins (Colin Firth), proves futile as the loan has officially expired. Just as hope seems lost, Mary Poppins (Emily Blunt) reappears, accompanied by the lamplighter Jack (Lin-Manuel Miranda), embarking on new, enchanting adventures as they race against the clock to locate Mr. Banks Sr.’s shares and save the family home.
Mary Poppins kommer tillbaka holds the record for the longest interval between an original film and its sequel. Premiering in 1964, Mary Poppins was followed by its sequel after 54 years. This delay stems from the author, P.L. Travers’, disdain for the original film (a subject explored in Saving Mr. Banks) and a clause in her will explicitly forbidding a Mary Poppins sequel featuring songs and animated penguins. However, some 22 years after Travers’ death, Mary Poppins Returns has arrived.
Director Rob Marshall, known for musicals like Chicago and Nine, takes on a project where precision is paramount. Any misstep could easily lead to failure. Marshall also contributed to the screenplay of Mary Poppins kommer tillbaka, drawing inspiration from various events depicted in the books, albeit with considerable creative license. Upon returning to Cherry Tree Lane, the set design is meticulous, and the atmosphere perfectly recreated. Even Admiral Boom returns, now portrayed by David Warner. Marshall insisted on incorporating hand-drawn animation sequences, resisting pressure from studio executives to use 3D animation. This decision is exemplified in the film’s standout scene, a musical performance within a soup bowl, featuring the penguins from the original film. This sequence benefits greatly from the classic animation style, delivering a nostalgic feel that modern 3D animation could not replicate. The music retains a familiar quality while incorporating contemporary elements, evoking the same era as the original film.
Given that Julie Andrews, the original Mary Poppins, could not reprise her role, the filmmakers sought a replacement. They selected Emily Blunt, a capable actress who, despite initial reservations, embodies the character’s poise and grace upon her arrival. Blunt delivers a compelling performance, proving herself a worthy successor.
Lin-Manuel Miranda, renowned for composing the Broadway hit Hamilton, makes his debut in a major film role as the lamplighter Jack. This new character accompanies Poppins and the children on their adventures, rather than simply replacing Dick van Dyke’s Bert from the original. This was a judicious choice, as replicating Van Dyke’s distinctive (and often criticized) Cockney accent would have been ill-advised. Miranda’s performance is strong, showcasing his talents as a song and dance performer honed on Broadway.
Ben Whishaw and Emily Mortimmer portray the adult Michael and Jane Banks, respectively, and their performances are compelling. Whishaw adeptly balances the burdens of adulthood with the inner child still present within Michael. The sibling dynamic is a highlight, and Mortimmer brings nuance to Jane’s character.
The film features a clear antagonist in the form of the new bank manager, Wilkins, played by Colin Firth, who delivers a suitably villainous performance. Furthermore, Dick Van Dyke makes a welcome return in a cameo role as Mr. Dawes Jr. His performance at 91 years old is delightful. The appearance of Angela Lansbury in a small but significant role further enhances the film.
The casting of child actors can be challenging, often detracting from a film’s quality. However, the filmmakers successfully cast Pixie Davies, Nathanael Saleh, and Joel Dawson, who deliver professional performances that anchor the film without becoming overly saccharine. Their contributions are entertaining and endearing, averting what could have been a significant pitfall.
Mary Poppins kommer tillbaka is highly recommended for a cinematic viewing experience. While concerns may arise regarding the potential for flawed execution, the filmmakers have successfully addressed every detail. Some critics have noted similarities between certain scenes and those in the original film. Specifically, the soup bowl scene mirrors the street painting sequence, Mary Poppins’ visit to her eccentric cousin Topsy (played by Meryl Streep) echoes the tea party on the ceiling with Ed Wynn, and Jack and the lamplighters’ dance number is reminiscent of Bert’s chimney sweep performance. However, these parallels serve as familiar elements within a largely new narrative and do not detract from the overall viewing experience.
The creative team behind Mary Poppins kommer tillbaka avoided simply relying on nostalgia and fan service, instead choosing to craft a new narrative while maintaining the spirit of the original. In conclusion, this film is a must-see; the magic endures!
Så här sätter vi betyg på Senses