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One Movie Punch


Jan 15, 2019

Hi everyone!

I know what you’re thinking? What’s happened to the podcast? Have they finally sold out? Of course not. Today is just a very special Takeover Tuesday, with my spouse, Amy Dobzynski, aka One Movie Spouse. She’ll be popping on the podcast every now and again when there’s a film she simply can’t get enough of. And when you hear that intro, you’ll know what you’re in for!

And now, One Movie Punch presents... One Movie Spouse!

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Hi, I’m Amy, now known on this podcast as One Movie Spouse (MWAH!). I’m a public-school educator, mother, spouse, and in 2019, I have a new role as guest reviewer for One Movie Punch. I’m so excited about my first review!

Today’s movie is “Mary Poppins Returns” (2018), the Walt Disney Pictures follow up to the landmark “Mary Poppins” (1964), directed by Rob Marshall, and written for the screen by David Magee, based on a story in collaboration with Rob Marshall and John DeLuca, and based on the original stories by P.L. Travers. The film follows Mary Poppins (Emily Blunt), who has returned decades later to Depression-era London to help the Banks family rediscover the joy of life during hard times. The film was nominated for four Golden Globes, including Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy; Best Original Score; Emily Blunt for Best Actress in a Musical or Comedy; and Lin-Manuel Miranda for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy.

No spoilers!

My motto as an educator is to strive for the creativity of Ms. Frizzle and have the patience of Mary Poppins. I have adored Mary Poppins as a character for years. In fact, I wanted to be Mary Poppins when I grew up. She’s magical, witty, a problem solver, and makes anything possible. My favorite coffee mug is a silhouette of Mary Poppins floating above London. Because of her, I always try to add a dash of positivity and creativity in my daily life. I squealed with delight when the trailer dropped for “Mary Poppins Returns”. I couldn’t wait to see this film!

I went into the theater over winter break with an open mind. “Mary Poppins” (1964) is a timeless classic. With all the Disney reboots and live action films coming to theaters, I wondered how they could possibly make a second film as good as the first. I was determined to find out. So, with the company of a few other enthusiastic Poppins fans, we sat down and got ready to see what new adventures were in store.

The verdict?! “Mary Poppins Returns” (2018) is a truly delightful film! Whether you are 9, 39, or 99, you will instantly be drawn into the adventures of Mary Poppins. I felt like I was back in the original film, revisiting old friends, and being introduced to a new generation of Banks children facing the turmoil of life. Mary Poppins does indeed return, to keep a watchful eye on the family, giving them a reprieve from the issues plaguing the adults, and helping the children regain a sense of wonder. Throughout the film, I really felt the impossible could become possible. And for you naysayers, pish posh! It’s true! 

Emily Blunt and Lin-Manuel Miranda give excellent performances. I loved watching their friendship flourish as they invited others to join in their fun. The songs are all new, but you’ll also hear the familiar melodies from the first film sprinkled throughout. The sets and costumes are beautifully designed, helping to carry you into their fantastic adventures, and reminiscent of the original film. The combination of animation and live action is visually stunning and blends beautifully on screen. It made me appreciate even more what was done with the original film, given the limitations in technology. This film is practically perfect in every way. Let’s go fly a kite and see if Mary Poppins will pay *us* a visit.

“Mary Poppins Returns” (2018) is a successful franchise reboot, pleasing fans of the original, and likely to draw in new fans. The film has whimsical music, tremendous choreography, and beautiful art direction. Fans of the original film, or Lin-Manuel Miranda, or any fans of musicals, should definitely see this film.

Rotten Tomatoes: 78% (CERTIFIED FRESH)

Metacritic: 66

One Movie Punch: 9.4/10

“Mary Poppins Returns” (2018) is rated PG and is playing in select theaters.