Disney's Mary Poppins Returns [DVD] [2018]

The original movie and storyline had flaws but the concept and atmosphere more than compensated for that. It was simply a movie that enthused me greatly and that was an inspiration later in life as a lost-dad .. tangled up in a tedious bank job. Hence I have seen it many times over the years and even went to see the musical. Moreover I’ve shaken hands with Mary in Disneyland!.Although curious, I tried to avoid spoilers and reviews to see this movie without any expectations or much prejudice. And I must say it did not disappoint at all. All together the movie is a charming nostalgic mix of sparkling, colourful visuals, catchy songs and compulsory dance sequences. The story line is somewhat thin again but holds better than the original.The movie oozes reference to the original; there is Cherry Tree lane, a dad that lost touch with what really matters, a talking parrot umbrella head and a jolly holiday ride. And much, much more.A very sensitive part would have been the characters. But they suit and act more appropriately than I expected. Mary and Jack stand out in particular and have properly set the stage for sequels. Mary remains practically perfect; immaculate hair, great fun but with a stern streak. And Jack, the new Bert, is filling the room with his smile, dance skills and an uplifting can-do attitude. I struggle however with Ben Whishaw, he is a great actor. But I fail to see him as a grown-up Michael, the contrast is just too stark - now he is a nerdy, obedient artist and there is little that resembles the strong-minded ginger Michael Banks from his youth except for his mouth that occasionally remains open like a ‘cod-fish’.In the end this movie is just great entertainment for most of the family. But I must add that our youngest of 5 - that resembles young Michael in many ways - only got interested toward the end when there was a bit of action and tension – he is more into ninja’s and dinosaur therefore all the sweet songs, flowers and pink lace weren’t his cup of tea. In contrast, his older sister who likes her spoons full of sugar and does believe in the Mary Poppins’ attitude to life thought this was a ‘great movie’ that she was desperate to get on blu ray and watch many times over again. To my surprise, and shock, she even preferred it to the saintly original!We watched the movie in blu ray and the graphical qualities of the movie are being done proper justice by our high-end oled screen and proper surround sound set. It literally filled our room with sweet supercalifragilisticexpialidociousness.*** I very much enjoy reviewing products on Amazon, however there is little more satisfying than to learn that people read and like my reviews -> a click on the ‘helpful’ button below is greatly appreciated! ***

It has been many years since I first watched Mary Poppins, Julie Andrews version; so wasn't sure about whether this one would come close to the original. Actually, it is very entertaining with a great cast, complimented by a small appearance by Dick Van Dyke who appeared in the very first Mary Poppins. Emily Blunt plays a great part along with a strong supporting cast. Music and songs are very good too, will be great entertainment for the family. Film buffs will also welcome the "Making of"... which is very interesting. On 4K HD Picture and sound are superb, especially if you have a Home Cinema set up which can access Dolby Atmos sound. There is also a copy on Blu-Ray for those who do not possess a 4K Player. An excellent buy.

Having been 8 years old when I saw the first Mary Poppins at the cinema, I was a little apprehensive about this sequel, especially after reading some of the reviews here (Amazon) - Although they were written before the Blu-Ray was even released!Last night I put the disc in the player, just to have a quick look - I couldn't stop watching and ended up seeing the whole film, as well as the extras.I won't go in to details about the film, as I feel it spoils the enjoyment and surprise of watching it yourself for the first time. However, it gives us new scenes with some homage to the original. It is not the same, but is very similar. I would have loved to see and hear songs reprised, but then that's what the original Blu-ray is for! This is a new film, not a re-make, but follows the original style.The story, the acting, the sets and the music were all to a very high standard and I was taken back 55 years in a way I wasn't expecting!The first will always be the 'best' in your mind, because it was the first and there had been little like it previously.The same applies to the Jungle Book, James Bond, Star Wars, Jaws, Jurassic Park, etc. (Lot of 'J's there!)If you enjoyed the original (Especially 55 years ago!) I can highly recommend this one.