Mary Poppins (40th Anniversary Edition) Reviews

• Now available in a 2-disc DVD edition!

  
  By A1Q4ZU2Y929N0A on 2004-11-25
  Mary Poppins may be =the= stand-out live-action movie that Disney has ever produced. Or will ever produce.
  
  All the songs are very memorable. Who out there does not find themselves humming or even singing along with the likes of "Chim-Chim-Cheree" or "Spoonful of Sugar"?
  
  Julie Andrews will always be remembered for her role as Mary Poppins, and Dick Van Dyke absolutely shines as Bert the Chimney Sweep. Van Dyke also plays the senior officer of the bank - and has his very best scene where he realizes that the punchline - "A wooden leg named Smith" - is funny. Andrews won an Academy Award for Mary Poppins, and the movie also won Best Visual Effects, and Best Music Score, as well as Best Song ("Chim Chim Cher-ee").
  
  The scene where "I love to laugh" is particularly poignant. Ed Wynn died not long after the release of Mary Poppins, and shows some of his best comedy style in this scene. Very laughable.
  
  The story is top-notch and has a wonderful moral without being too "preachy". It was a very good adaptation from the original novel, and it's a shame Disney never did any of P L Traver's own sequels to Mary Poppins.
  
  The animated bits are a little flat by today's standards, but they add a wonderful whimsey to a stellar production. Highly recommended to any family with children. A must-buy for Disney fans.
  
  This is the far better, two-disc, 40th anniversary edition that not only restores everything to digital quality, but adds a second disc of deleted scenes (and a song!), commentary, and many other cool new features. Look for the new 40th anniversary DVD edition - it's worth waiting for!
  
  It's just supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!
  
  

• Disney's Live Masterpiece Shines More Brightly than Ever!

  
  By A31I3HXMD5H1EL on 2004-12-06
  "Mary Poppins" is one of that select group of films that can truly be called 'Classic', a project conceived in love and filled with so much child-like wonder that it will never grow old or 'out-of-date'. Certainly the crowning achievement of Walt Disney's remarkable career, the "Mary Poppins" 40th Anniversary Special Edition is simply magnificent!
  
  Based on P.L. Travers' tales of a magical nanny who arrives to bring families closer, the rights to the stories had been pursued by Disney since 1938, but Travers had seen what studios had done to other authors' works, and withheld her approval unless she could maintain some creative control. Years of negotiations only whetted Disney's desire to make a definitive, truly 'special' film, and by 1960, despite the box office failure of another fantasy-themed 'pet' project, "Darby O'Gill and the Little People", he was more confident than ever in the story's potential, bringing together a remarkable array of talent, including songwriting brothers Richard and Robert Sherman, production head Bill Walsh, and the brilliant artist Peter Ellenshaw to 'visualize' 1910 London through his matte paintings.
  
  With Travers' grudging approval, casting began. While American stage and TV star Dick Van Dyke was an odd choice to play a Cockney chimneysweep, he was a gifted mime and physical comedian, and had such a wholesome exuberance that Disney knew British audiences would forgive his shaky accent. Popular British actors Glynis Johns and David Tomlinson would play the preoccupied parents, with Karen Dotrice and Matthew Garber (from "The Three Lives of Thomasina") as the neglected children. Veteran stars Ed Wynn, Elsa Lanchester, Reginald Owen, Arthur Treacher, and Jane Darwell (as the Bird Woman, in her last screen appearance), headed the strong supporting cast.
  
  But it was the casting of Julie Andrews, in her first film, as Mary Poppins, that truly 'made' the film! Passed over by Jack Warner for the movie version of her stage hit, "My Fair Lady" (he opted for Audrey Hepburn), Disney caught her performance in "Camelot" on Broadway, knew, instantly, that she was the right 'Mary', and approached her for the role. "But I'm pregnant," she told him. "No problem," he replied. "I'll wait!"
  
  And thus a Classic was born!
  
  A multiple 1964 Oscar winner (including 'Best Actress' for Andrews, who got to share the stage with her "Lady" costar, Rex Harrison, who won 'Best Actor'), the film was a major hit, worldwide, and quickly achieved the legendary status it holds today.
  
  For it's 40th Anniversary, Disney's heirs have put together a spectacular package; along with the digitally-remastered film (it looks and sounds SUPERB!), a second disc of additional features includes a joyous reunion of stars Andrews and Van Dyke (who both seem ageless!); reminiscences of Robert Sherman, who sings a cute ditty cut from the final film; a fascinating 50-minute "behind-the-scenes" documentary about the production; featurettes on how the FX were achieved in several key scenes; and much, MUCH more! As the owner of several "Special Edition" Disney DVDs, I can honestly say, THIS is the BEST, yet!
  
  With the holidays fast approaching, I can't think of a finer gift to give, or to get!
  
  

• A DVD review

  
  By A2B7BUH8834Y6M on 2002-08-06
  This is a 5-star movie crammed into a 1-star DVD. If you're renting a movie, you only plan on seeing it once... when you buy a movie, you have bought the right to see it whenever you please for as long as you want. This DVD has FORCED COMMERCIALS! You can not skip them and you are forced to fast-forward through them. Instead of endearing you to the movies featured in the trailers, you eventually get so mad that the thought of those films makes your blood boil... especially if you already have purchased those films on DVD and you don't need to be coerced into buying them in the first place.

  There is no excuse for this. Disney should offer refunds and/or replacement discs to those who purchased them on good faith.

  In addition to the forced commercials, the tech specs are misleading and plain wrong. While the film is widescreen, it is NOT anamorphic as is claimed... this means that while it is in letterbox format, it is not in proper proportion and the images are slightly distorted.

  Just throwing a movie on a round disk does not a DVD make and this is proof.

  The movie is fantastic despite these shortcomings... but as the title of this review states - this is a DVD review, not the film. I'd advise waiting until a collector's edition comes out. A collector's edition is likely to contain more features such as interviews with the cast, out-takes and scenes from the Oscars for that year... and (one can only pray) no forced commercials.
  
  

• One Word Sums It Up: Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

  
  By A18RQ2URRGIIEA on 2003-02-13
  In 1964, Walt Disney Pictures, under the directorship of Robert Stevenson, released what became a timeless, musical, fantasy called "Mary Poppins". Starring Julie Andrews as the mysterious & magical Mary Poppins, the film is a fictional account of a dysfunctional family living in London circa 1910. The father, George W. Banks (David Tomlinson, who played Emelius Browne in "Bedknobs and Broomsticks" in 1971), is obsessed with his job at a prestigious Fidelity Fiduciary Bank and with maintaining a professional atmosphere at all times at home. The mother, Winifred Banks (Glynis Johns, whose film career began in 1938), is preoccupied with demonstrating as a suffragette and maintaining a clean home. Their young children, Jane (Karen Dotrice) and Michael (Matthew Garber, who died at the young age of 21 in 1977), are allowed minimal time with their parents, who prefer to have a nanny look after and raise their children for them. Unfortunately, Jane and Michael rarely like any of their nannies, who regularly quit after the children do something mischievous to each of them. Also working for Mr. & Mrs. Banks are the maid Ellen (Hermione Baddeley, who played Mrs. Cratchit in the 1951 classic "Scrooge") and the cook Mrs. Brill (Reta Shaw, who played in "Pollyanna" in 1960 and "The Ghost & Mr. Chicken" in 1966), neither of which have the time or the desire to look after Jane and Michael.

  Following the departure of yet another nanny, George decides to hire an appropriate nanny himself. Jane and Michael write their own advertisement for a nanny, but George regards their innocent description as rubbish as he intends to find a nanny that will uphold his every professional expectation. Mysteriously, the children's advertisement, that George tossed out, comes to Mary Poppins. When a very lengthy line of perspective nannies are seen at the Banks' front door early one morning, all of them are blown away by a strong wind. Coming down from the sky via an umbrella is the magical Mary Poppins. Expecting a rush of perspective nannies to race through the door, only Mary Poppins waits to enter the Banks' home. George interviews Mary, but he is quickly confused by her wit and unexpectedly hires her. From that point on, nothing is quite the same in the Banks home and the children get a nanny that not only fulfills their expectations, but becomes something much more to them. Along the way, the children are also introduced to several interesting people, including the handyman Bert (Dick Van Dyke, who starred in his own 1961 TV show and starred in "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang"), Uncle Albert (Ed Wynn, who also played the toy-maker in "Babes in Toyland" in 1961) and the bird woman (Jane Darwell).

  Many of the songs in the film are well known by people who have never seen the film, including:

  * "Sister Suffragette" (4.5/5, Glynis John). Winifred calling for the rights of women to be able to vote.
  * "The Life I Lead" (5/5, David Tomlinson). George describing his life and what a British home should be.
  * "The Perfect Nanny" (4.5/5, Karen Dotrice & Matthew Garber). Jane & Michael telling what they want in a nanny to their parents.
  * "A Spoonful of Sugar" (5/5, Julie Andrews). Mary encouraging the children to clean their rooms upon her arrival.
  * "Pavement Artist (Chim-Chim-Cheree)" (5/5, Dick Van Dyke). Bert's carefree life.
  * "Jolly Holiday" (4.5/5, Dick Van Dyke). Bert describing how wonderful it is to be with Mary Poppins again within the sidewalk chalk painting.
  * "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" (5+/5, Julie Andrews & Dick Van Dyke). A word you use when you don't know what else to say.
  * "Stay Awake" (5/5, Julie Andrews). A lullaby to Jane and Michael.
  * "I Love To Laugh" (4.5/5, Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, Ed Wynn). Uncle Albert is visited who is suffering from incurable laughter.
  * "A British Bank (The Life I Lead") (5/5, David Tomlinson & Julie Andrews). Mary telling George that he'll be taking the children to the bank with him.
  * "Feed the Birds (Tuppence a Bag)" (5/5, Julie Andrews). Mary describing the life of a poor woman who enjoys feeding birds.
  * "Fidelity Fiduciary Bank" (5/5, Dick Van Dyke and David Tomlinson) Mr. Dawes Sr. (also played by Dick Van Dyke), the CEO of George's bank, sings praises to the British banking system with George to Jane and Michael.
  * "Chim-Chim-Cheree" (5/5, Dick Van Dyke). Bert describing the carefree life of chimney sweep.
  * "Step in Time" (4/5, Dick Van Dyke). Song and dance upon the sooty rooftops of London.
  * "A Man Has Dreams" (4.5/5 Dick Van Dyke and David Tomlinson) George singing his woes to Bert.
  * "Let's Go Fly a Kite" (4.5/5, David Tomlinson and Glynis Johns). George & Winifred spending time with Jane and Michael.

  It is not surprising that so many children and adults alike love "Mary Poppins". It's catchy songs and fantastic situations propel the audience into a magical world of laughter and love that can be watched many times while never becoming tiresome. It also made Julie Andrews a household name with her unforgettable performance as Mary Poppins. Julie Andrews went on to play leading roles in "The Americanization of Emily" (1964), "The Sound of Music" (1965), "10" (1979) and "Victor/Victoria" (1982).

  I highly recommend the purchase of "Mary Poppins" on DVD, where it can be fully appreciated in its widescreen format. I rate this DVD with 5 out of 5 stars.
  
  

• I loved it as a child. I love it more as an adult

  
  By A3N0HBW8IP8CZQ on 2002-04-16
  Like many folks here, I saw this one when I was very young--right after second grade, I think. By the time it came to the theater in my little rural hometown a year after its release, Julie Andrews had already won an Oscar for her work as the title character. Not that that mattered. To the kids in my class at school, this was the hot, must-see movie of that summer--the way "Star Wars" would be in the next decade. I can still remember laughing over Dick Van Dyke tap-dancing with the penguins and crying during the "Bird Woman" song (which was as much social commentary as a sentimental tune about our feathered friends). I became a fan of Dick Van Dyke's show after this--he basically won my heart as Bert--the jack-of-all-trades special friend to Mary and the Banks' children. For the rest of that summer, man, I WAS Mary Poppins. My mom bought me a record of all the songs, I used her old Avon sample case as my carpetbag, and I acted out the movie every day. If VCRs and DVDs had been everyday household items then, I would have asked for "Mary Poppins" for Christmas. (It would have been worn out by Easter, most likely!)

  As happens to children almost overnight, my interests changed over the next year and I sort of got over my fixation with Mary, Bert, et. al. After all, Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke went on to other things after that, so why not me?

  And then in the 90s, Disney re-released "Mary Poppins" as a video. I bought it for my daughter (or at least that was the excuse I gave my husband). Though she was too young to understand everything in the movie--just as I was the first time I saw it--she, too, loved "Mary Poppity" as she called it. We must have played it at least 3 times a week during the first summer we had it, while living in temporary housing and waiting for our house to be built. She, too, loves to act this one out and to sing the songs for hours on end. The apple does not fall far from the tree, I guess.

  As for me. . .it's all I remembered it to be, and then some. For starters, the music. . .what was missing from the old record I had were the overture, underscores, and closing score--they were beautifully put together. And the little details are delightful, too. Among them: Mrs. Banks, who is a feminist (at least when Mr. Banks isn't around) wears bloomers--and later in the movie, we discover Mary Poppins does, too. (don't blink, or you'll miss seeing them) The relationship between Mary and Bert. . .as a child I thought they were probably a couple but never had time to see each other because of their work. Now? I think they would be a couple if they got a lucky break. Let's face it--she's a nanny and he's a lower-level tradesman. Even if they did get married, in 1910, the realities of British society were such that if you weren't part of the gentry, you worked for a living, and changing your "class" or status didn't happen. A shame, because their characters obviously love children very much. So they do the next best thing--work together as a team to bring happiness to British middle-class homes--mainly by shaking up the parents. Mary was no ordinary nanny, but Bert made her an even better one--he was the idea man, and she handled the implementation.

  And therein is the secret: this movie was not as much about Mary, Bert, and the kids as it is about Mary, Bert, and Mr. and Mrs. Banks. It's when Mr. Banks realizes that his children don't need a nanny to be happy--they just need their parents to love them and give them their attention--that he also becomes the man that the Bank needs. The scene between Bert and Mr. Banks at the house is one of the best in the movie.

  As for the ending? When I was a child, I didn't understand it. Now, as an adult, I do. The mission was accomplished, and it was time to move on. As one of the main characters said, all was as it should be.

  So is this movie. Enjoy it with your own daughter. . .
  
  

• Disappointed
  By A1GYR0Q9BRCNQ4 on 2002-04-01
  I hear there are two versions of Mary Poppins' DVD going around - a single layer and a dual layer version.
  I unfortunately and unknowingly bought the single layer. Middle of the movie, it stops dead, an animated hand appears showing a disc being turned over and you have to leap up and flip your disc for the movie to resume. This is almost sacriledge in any movie but to do it in Mary Poppins is a crime. It kills the flow and destroys the magic. It should be clearly marked on the label if you have to flip your disc.
  So be warned all: check if you are getting the dual layer version on any long movie. If not, do not buy it.
  
  
• Mary Poppins on DVD
  By A7Y6AVS576M03 on 2000-08-18
  This is probably one of Walt Disney's best films, if not the best. It is the most excellent realized combination of live action and animation. It contains eternal charm, wit, and magic as it introduces us to the "practically perfect" nanny who brings profound change to the Banks family of London in the early twentieth century. Every song composed by Richard and Robert Sherman is pure magic. The believable visual effects, the heartfelt scripting, and the solid performances by Julie Andrews and the heart rendering Dick Van Dyke are truly eternal. Every element of production came together at their zenith to create a treasure of cinematic endearment. The DVD is excellent. The supplemental material is very good and nostalgic. One of the best films ever made. The superb cast also includes: David Tomlinson, Glynis Johns, Elsa Lanchester, Arthur Treacher, Ed Wynn, Hermione Baddeley, Reginald Owen and Jane Darwell as The Bird Woman. Director, Robert Stevenson is at his best.
  
  
• Parents wanting to buy a Mary Poppins DVD? Read this.
  By A3Q4VK2NCR4CH4 on 2004-08-27
  The Mary Poppins DVD (Gold Collection) is OOP (Out Of Print). As of August 26, 2004, you can still purchase it at the Disney Movie Club (DisneyMovieClub-dot-com) for 19.99. The catch is that you have to sign up and buy 5 movies at regular club prices.
  
  The 40th Anniversary Edition is going to be available December 14, 2004. Just search for "Mary Poppins (40th Anniversary Edition)" on Amazon. This version is a lot nicer than the Gold Collection version. Currently, its 20.99 on pre-order.
  
  The prices for new and used DVDs when you click on the "See all buying options" are crazy (27 to 85 dollars).
  
  
  
• It's Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!
  By A3NQU1649SH0Q4 on 2000-05-04
  With the possible exception of "Fantasia," "Mary Poppins" has to be Walt Disney's triumph. The story of the no-nonsense nanny with the sparkle of magic has not aged a bit in the 25-plus years since its initial release and remains a wonderful blend of music, magic, wonder and whimsy that the whole family can enjoy.

  Julie Andrews is simply marvelous as is her supporting cast: Dick Van Dyke as Bert; Glynis Johns as Mrs. Banks; David Tomlinson as Mr. Banks; not to mention Ed Wynn as Mary's laughing uncle.

  Modern attention spans being what they are, and since this IS a standard-length movie and not a video, I wouldn't introduce this film to very small children. Give them a few years until they can appreciate the witty lyrics and the plot. But "Mary Poppins" certainly deserves a home on every family's video shelf.
  
  

• Great movie, poor DVD
  By A3OVNI4W1YX4NM on 2003-04-23
  The movie is great, but not the DVD.
  Some times DVDs have this annoying "Coming soon" thing where you have to press the "menu" button to get to what you've paid for. Guess what, on this DVD... menu button is disabled, forcing you to >>| to the part that you care about.
  
  
• It's a Jolly Holiday With Mary!
  By A3IB1W0SVED0Z3 on 2001-10-29
  "Mary Poppins." Many film critics call it the best Walt Disney movie ever made... the crowning achievement from a studio that has brought us such timeless classics as "Fantasia," "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves," "Bambi," "Beauty and the Beast," and "The Lion King." For my money, Mary Poppins tops `em all! This fabulous musical comedy, starring Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke, David Tomlinson, and Glynis Johns, and based on the best selling British children's books written by P.L. Travers, ranks as one of the two best children's movies ever made. (The other being "The Wizard of Oz.")

  Where to begin? This is such an extraordinary movie!! It has everything that a great kid's movie should have: a wonderful story that teaches strong family values; a brilliant cast; absolutely stunning special effects (even by today's standards); and wonderful music. Here are just a few of the things I like best about "Mary Poppins:"

  THE ACTING is absolutely brilliant! Julie Andrews won a Best Actress Academy Award for her portrayal of Mary Poppins. She imbues her character with the reserve so prevalent in British society during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. At the same time, she manages to convey a wonderful sense of joy, kindness, and compassion toward the children. Dick Van Dyke is superb as the carefree chimney sweep ans jack-of-all-trades, Bert. His relaxed comic style is perfectly matched to his character. And, while his Cockney accent doesn't quite deliver the goods accurately, it's nevertheless pretty good. (By the way, look for Mr. Van Dyke in a secondary role in this film. I won't tell you which one... but it's unlikely you'll miss him!) David Tomlinson is the third stand-out member of this fabulous ensemble cast. He's practically perfect as the pompous, stuffy martinet of a father, George Banks. Other cast members are excellent as well, especially Glynis Johns as Winifred Banks; and Ed Wynn in his hilarious role as the laughing man, Uncle Albert.

  THE WRITING: Screen writers Bill Walsh and Don Da Gradi adapted "Mary Poppins" from the series of British children's books authored by P.L. Travers (1899-1996) This is a tender story that addresses many family issues that were as problematic at the beginning of the twentieth century as they are today: responsibility, accountability, and the proper role of parents in the rearing of their children. In the Banks household, we find a family with many of the same problems that afflict today's families: two parents, each focused on their own interests, each so busy with their own lives that they have precious little time to forge and maintain loving bonds with their children. What are the possible consequences for the children? How can these problems be addressed and solved? The beauty of this story is that it's done in a way that's easy for kids, even younger ones (I'd say ages six and older) to understand and learn from.

  THE MUSIC: All of the music and lyrics in "Mary Poppins" are original... composed by Richard Sherman and his brother Robert. This film has some of the best songs ever to appear in a movie! Each song is in itself a classic: "A Spoonful of Sugar;" "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious;" (I think that's how it's spelled!); "Feed the Birds" (my personal favorite); Academy Award-winning "Chim Chim Cher-ee;" "Step in Time;" and "Let's Go Fly a Kite" are but a few of the magical, sometimes whimsical, but always "practically perfect" songs that make this film such a wonderful musical experience.

  And then there's THE MAGIC... the special effects! In its day, "Mary Poppins" was on the "cutting edge" of movie-making technology. Examples of these (what were then) ultra-modern special effects: this was one of the first films to use miniature robotics for animation. (That robin that lands on the window sill during "A Spoonful of Sugar" is a miniature robotic bird!) And, of course, this is also one of the first films to combine real-life actors and animation extensively (the entire sequence with Mary, Bert and the children inside the sidewalk chalk picture.) These special effects may seem a bit tame when compared with today's computer-generated graphics, but make no mistake: they're still eye-popping!

  Go beyond all the glitz and glitter of the film, and you'll find at the heart of "Mary Poppins" a simple story about family, with important lessons for all of us - children and adults alike - on how we can make our homes better and happier places to live.

  By today's standards, "Mary Poppins" may seem a little old-fashioned, even dated. But it's still a great kid's movie! With a well written, touching story, superb music, and outstanding special effects, it's at once brilliantly funny, poignant, joyous, carefree, and just plain marvelous entertainment.
  
  

• FANTASTIC FANTASY
  By AM2PV53UX1JEQ on 2000-01-07
  To date, it is hard to think of a movie that integrated story, character, musical numbers, animation and live action as enchantingly as Mary Poppins. For children, no other movie provides the sheer exuberance or delightfully conveyed good messages. For adults, there is a Puff The Magic Dragon theme throughout that comes over you when you watch it as a grown-up; I think it is that twist of sadness and of time passing by that keeps Mary Poppins on the top of the list. Julie Andrews is arch perfection in a role she plays with no sentiment at all; her Mary is as spit-spot and no-nonsense as in the books; and again, it is that air of authenticity that wins you over -- completely. Dick Van Dyke displays his many affable talents here in spades, and the children are absolutely adorable. The London locations are a dream come true, and provide a visual backdrop for the adventures at hand that keeps unfolding with wit and creativity. Though the final scenes in the bank do drag on a bit, this movie is whisked along by some of the Sherman Brothers' best music, which conveys not only spirited fun and frivolity, but also sweet melancholy -- Chim Chim Cheree creeps up on you by surprise, and at its conclusion you are moved to a place of wistfulness. Joyful and enduring.
  
  
• Pratically Perfect in Every Way
  By A1YU3JQIT9421C on 2001-11-13
  I was nine years old when Walt Disney produced the first movie I remember being a "must see": Mary Poppins. After seeing it numerous times as a child, I bought the new DVD - thought I might enjoy seeing it again and sharing it with my nieces and nephews.

  Mary Poppins retains the same magic and wonder that I remember experiencing as a child. She still remains this enigma - who was she really? Where did she come from? What was really going on between her and Bert? The movie answers none of these questions - it just lets them float in the air like it's magical heroine. And that's part of its charm. The film seems to live by Mary's maxim: "I never explain anything".

  Technically - the film holds up as well, even in this age of digital everything. I was amazed to learn (in the "Making of" documentary that's included on the CD) that the film was shot entirely on the Disney soundstages in Burbank. They never went on location; they never even went outside. London is "painted in" in a series of beautiful matte glass paintings. (If I remember correctly, even today, it is the largest number of glass background paintings ever used in a film.)

  Julie Andrews, of course, is "practically perfect in every way" as Mary - a much more idiosyncratic character than the governess she famously played in "Sound of Music" a year later. And that clear soprano voice - never showy, always in character - just lifts the film. Dick Van Dyke is wonderful as Bert - though accents are clearly not his strong suit. But as a comic, a mime, a singer and a dancer he is charming as the Jack-of-all-trades friend of Mary.

  The DVD looks great. It's letterboxed - but it wasn't shot in wide screen format - so you don't loose much on your TV screen. The colors are snappy and true. There is a new "Making of" feature, produced especially for the DVD hosted by Dick Van Dyke and featuring interviews with Julie, and some of the other technical team that are still around. There is some great home movie footage of the chimney sweep dancers rehearsing "Step in Time" outside in the California heat stripped down to their skivvies.

  The one thing on the DVD I do NOT appreciated is a long series of promos for other Disney video releases that you can't cancel out of easily and skip to the film. I think it's rather shameless forcing kids to sit through those commercials to see their favorite movie.

  All in all - a beautiful presentation of a classic film that adults and children can enjoy together.
  
  

• New Edition Coming
  By A1Q4ZU2Y929N0A on 2003-11-30
  Just a quick note here - if you are thinking of purchasing a copy of Mary Poppins now, just wait a little while.
  Sometime in 2004, Disney will be doing a "Special Edition", two disc DVD release that will be similar to thier recent reissue of Sleeping Beauty.

  With all of the features on that, people who buy this DVD recently will be disappointed if they didn't wait.

  Disney will be including all of the "Making of", pre-production art, and other features that make their new "Special Editions" great, to the new edition of Pocahontas.

  There are three other "Special Editions" due in 2004 - Alice In Wonderland, Lilo and Stitch, and Pocahontas. Alice will be the first released in 2004. Also, there's the "Platinum" edition of Aladdin in October 2004. Worth waiting for in my opinion. You have been warned. :-)
  
  

• "Enhanced Mix" is an attrocity! Original Theatrical is solid
  By A12Y3GHRFRXBU on 2005-02-22
  Mary Poppins is an amazing film, and one of my personal favorites. This review is on the 40th anniversary DVD, not the film itself - actually this is more of a warning than a review. Please, avoid the "enhanced home theatre mix" at all costs. It is truly attrocious. The bass has been pumped to a ridiculous level; all the music tracks have had a dull reverb applied and have been stripped of their glorious high-end; and, most disgusting, new sound effects have been added where there were non before, and others have been altered. All of these alterations are totally unnessecary and appalling from an artistic standpoint. The original theatrical mix is PERFECT - nominated for an Academy award actually - EXCEPT, on this DVD, they have mastered it at a much lower volume than the g**awful enhanced mix. All this means is that when you choose the Original Mix, you'll have to crank the volume to bring it to the level of the rest of the DVD (trust me this is NOT a fault of the original mix, it's how the DVD was authored). It's really sad that Disney has molested such a fine sound mix, and on top of that, the revised mix is the default option. Apparently the Australian and Japanese versions of this release have the Original Mix as the default option...
  One more note of caution for film purists, it looks like they've digitally erased some of the matte lines and wires used for the special effects. Also, despite the pristine look of the picture, the colors seem just a little off when compared to the raw live action footage seen in the special features (footage which was later mixed with animation. It would seem that if they are going to color correct the film, they would use that footage as a reference, but I could be wrong
  
  
• It's a Jolly Holiday With Mary
  By APF9MW1YUQMKO on 2001-06-28
  Julie Andrews won the 1965 Academy Award for Best Actress in this delighful musical adaptation of the popular British children's books. And deservedly so. From the moment she descends from the sky as Poppins and lands on the front steps of Jane and Michael Bank's home, there's absolutely no stopping her. Here, as in the many films she would make over the next five decades, Andrews graps hold of a part, takes it that extra mile and never once disappoints. As Poppins, she is magnificent. But there's more to the part than just singing about tea parties on the ceiling, popping in and out of chalk pavement pictures or spoonfuls of sugar. Sure, she's the nanny we'd all love to have. But in the story, her character arrives just in the knick of time to put a dysfunctional family back together in true Disney fashion. The songs are great. In particular, "Chim-Chim Cheree," "Spoonful of Sugar," "I Love to Laugh" and "Supercalifragilisticexpalidocious." The rest of the cast, Dick Van Dyke, Karen Dotrice, Glynis Johns, David Tomlinson, Matthew Garber and Ed Wynn, also add to the fun. Hard to believe that it's been 37 years since this film was first released. Nontheless, it's just as entertaining as it was way back when. It's also fun to sit back and watch a whole new generation of kids and their parents discover the magic and wonder of this terrific Disney film. Rent it today. Or Buy it. You won't be disappointed.
  
  
• Not really a review.. a correction to that below
  By AXWYKPGEP5KDY on 2004-11-04
  Mr. Tyrell: It's TUPPENCE a bag. Tuppence is 2 pence, or 2 pennies. To buy a bag to feed the birds.
  And yes, I know the song--- all of them, by heart.
  This movie is a classic. Wonderful fun even for the littlest ones.
  Sing along (but get the words right!)
  
  
• Mary Poppins is Still MAGIC After all these 40 Years!
  By A2W00XKTTF1G0Z on 2004-12-07
  I received a special preview copy of the 40th anniversary of Marry Poppins DVD edition. I must say I spend two whole days reviewing the special features. It is amazing and a must have DVD for the Holidays and all year long.
  
  This DVD edition is remastered in the DISNEYS' THX home Theatre set up. The audio is incredible and the restored print is amazing bright, vibrant and textured. The movies are toted as Walt's best achievement ever. And it has everything you would want in a film for the entire family including a break down of sing-a-long songs.
  
  40th Anniversary DVD contains:
  A special audio commentary track with the none other than Academy Award Winning JULIE ANDREWS (The Sound of Music, The Princess Diaries, 10) and DICK VAN DYKE (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Bye Bye Birdie, The Dick Van Dyke Show) themselves. Reminiscing about the music, production and even Mr. Walt Disney himself. Also on the track is Karen Dotrice (Many Lives of Thomasina) who plays young Jane Banks and composer Robert Sherman (All the Disney Classics). They all seem to speak fondly of the shoot, the cast and crew and especially have some funny memories of the production itself.
  
  A MAGICAL REUNINION: There is a great walk down "memory lane" with Robert Sherman, Dick Van Dyke and Julie Andrews. They musically review through stories and example of the songs and how the evolution occurred. Dick van Dyke is amazing enthusiastically about his part as Bert. Julie discusses everything from the children to learning about making her very first film ever.
  
  THE MAKING OF MARRY POPPINS: Is an amazing visual and educational look at the making of the film. This is the longest of the extra features and goes in depth of the time, energies and efforts into making this Walt Disney classic. Filled with outtakes, behind the scenes footage and commentary from Julie and most of the cast, crew and musical influences of the film. It is hosted by - Dick Van Dyke (Bert) himself!
  
  Other features include Dick Van Dyke's original MAKE-UP test, THE GALA WORLD Premiere at the Chinese Theatre in Hollywood and one of my favorites the DECONSTRUCTION of two scene that include the break down of special effects and animation and their elements being combined.
  
  I LOVE TO LAUGH - A game for the kids who have watched the movie and handle some visual trivia from the film.
  
  THE CAT THAT LOOKED AT THE KING: Finally there is an extra bonus of a great little new animated short that is from one of the original P.L. Travers books. Julie Andrews herself takes you through the adventure in a very "Marry Poppins" sort of way. Guest voices include David Ogden Stiers (Beauty and the Beast, M.A.S.H., Pocahontas), Tracey Ullman (The Tracy Ullman Show, I Love You To Death, Once Upon A Mattress) and England's own Sarah Ferguson.
  
  The film directed by Robert Stevenson (Bedknobs and Broomsticks, The Love Bug, The Absent Minded Professor) is an amazing piece of fun, entertainment and a true lesson in life and the love of family. Richard and Robert Sherman's score, music and songs will leave you singing long after the movie is over! This is an Amazing DVD with tons of extras for the family to enjoy. Sentimental moments, very funny moments and some very heartwarming emotions get this one before it disappears like Marry Poppins herself does! I loved it! (12/04)
  
  
• Practically perfect in every way
  By on 1999-01-19
  Everyone has seen Mary Poppins. Let's cut the mustard and talk about the DVD.

  Sound 3/5 - Using ProLogic receiver, the songs are blatantly pasted in. The difference in the sound quality during the transition from dialogue to song is horrible. On the bright side, the songs sound great, and the dialogue sound isn't that bad considering that the movie is 25 years old.

  Picture Quality 4.5/5 -Excellent.

  Extra Features 0/5 -There are none, so don't bother looking.
  
  

• What about restoring deleted scenes?
  By A1GTOIX13PLVL6 on 2005-01-04
  Like many people, I saw the movie as a youngster and had the sound track record. When the DVD first came out, I was upset to find that some of it was missing! For example, a scene where the kids are actually making the kite with paper and glue with a too-large brush and the dog makes a mess of things; at the very end Burt saying "I love you, Mary Poppins" as she floats off. With DVDs we expect a longer "directors cut" of a movie, not an abridged shortened version!
  
  Looking at the other editions for sale here, I see the running length is the same. So, what I'd like to know is: is the full reature restored in this 40th anniversary edition? I'd by it if it was.
  
  
• One of Disney's best -- in widescreen!
  By A2EYMELYXZFO5Q on 2000-03-13
  Wonderful Disney film in a perfect WIDESCREEN DVD release. Note to Disney Home Video: PLEASE release all films in their original theatrical ratios like this! Audio quality of this DVD is excellent.
  
  
• Is it impossible to make films like this anymore?
  By on 1999-07-04
  This movie is now 35 years old. It is smart, funny, fresh and as limber as the day it was released in August of 1964. It's special effects would probably be considered primitive in our digital world, but they are used within the context of a fully-developed story happening to appealing characters and still retain a sense of wonder about them, and wit as well. Julie Andrews captures Mary's hilarious and appealing combination of starchy manner and subversive actions and Dick Van Dyke is at least as spontaneous in his humor as Robin Williams, although minus the soggy sentiment and self-absorption. And David Tomlinson and Glynis Johns are like a well-oiled vaudeville act as the parents who are too busy with banking and women's votes to notice how unmanageable their children have become (kudos to Bill Walsh and Don DaGradi for their witty jokes about the rather obstreperous nature of British Feminism during the Edwardian period). And the children, Karen Dotrice and Matthew Garber, are genuinely surprising as Jane and Michael--they're real kids, not adorable, programmed moppets. The director, Robert Stevenson, had been doing wonderful things with kid actors ever since he directed Nova Pilbeam in NINE DAYS A QUEEN back in the 1930's, not to mention the lovely performances he coaxed from Peggy Ann Garner, Elizabeth Taylor, and Margaret O'Brien in the 40's film version of JANE EYRE. For once, a kid's film where you can stand the kids!
  
  
• Classic, Brilliant, Funny, Touching - Magical
  By on 2001-12-24
  Mary Poppins is one of those classic and magical movies that will never go out of style. Each time I watch it, it gets better and I see something new in the film. Julie Andrews is perfectly cast as the "practically perfect" nanny for the two Banks children in her very first movie (She won an Oscar for Best Actress for her portrayal of Mary Poppins in 1964). Dick Van Dyke is absolutely wonderful as the comical and charming Bert, one of the best roles he would ever portray on screen. Backed by an amazing supporting cast including Ed Wynn (he loves to laugh!), Glynis Johns as Mrs. Banks, David Tomlinson as the domineering and punctual Mr. Banks, and Karen Dotrice and Matthew Garber as the adorable Banks children Jane and Michael. With amazing musical numbers and award winning songs and special effects this film is wonderful from start to finish with never a dull moment and something to offer for everyone. A truly magical film that once you have seen, you can never forget.
  The DVD version of this timeless classic is a must have. Complete with special segments on the making of the film, clips of the stars arriving at the premier, and games, it too has a little something for everyone.
  
  
• Wow! WOW!
  By APP5MBH2BSX6I on 2004-12-10
  Year after year hundreds of films are planned, sweated over, made, publicized, released, and forgotten. Most of them are made with the sincere hope and belief that they could possibly catch a bit of the kind of movie magic that this classic family film is absolutely overflowing with. There truly is something for everyone in "Mary Poppins," and it is indeed "practically perfect in every way."
  
  Julie Andrews, at the height of her career, and Dick Van Dyke at his, star in one of the few Hollywood musicals where you never consciously notice that the characters are actually bursting in song whereas you and I would simply continue to speak. That's how smooth and seamless the film is, and how brightly artful the whole thing is done. The delightfully loony characters include a retired admiral who, atop his house, thinks he's at sea; a lovable old Uncle Albert who giggles himself literally into the air (really the only sequence in the film that seems tacked on, perhaps forced a bit because they wanted classic '50s comic Ed Wynn in the film); an aged banker who seems like he would collapse into dust if he fell to the floor (that's Van Dyke in lots of pancake makeup in a dual role); and the friendly neighborhood constable, played by Arthur Treacher (does anyone else remember Arthur Treacher's Fish & Chips restaurants?).
  
  The kids won't notice all that, they'll just be swept away by little Jane & Michael's adventures. They'll identify with the kids having parents who are too busy to spend as much time with them as they might like, as well as the idealism of youth clashing with the practicality of grownup life, and they'll be enchanted by the magic nanny who flew in on a puff of wind. The adults will be touched by the children plaintively trying to get their needs across to their parents (especially stodgy Daddy) and it's a hard-hearted grownup indeed who comes away from "Mary Poppins" unchanged in their feelings toward their little ones. To top it all off, Julie Andrews is appealingly very pretty, which doesn't hurt one bit, from the male perspective.
  
  As an adult I often list such diverse films as "Local Hero," "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," the "Lord Of the Rings" trilogy, "AI," "Fiddler On the Roof," "Airplane!" and "Bagdad Cafe" among my favorites. Shame on me for often failing to include this, easily my favorite Disney film. This DVD also has beaucoups of features that are an absolute treasure, and the reasonable price makes this a must-own item. Hope Santa remembers that I did put up a stocking this year....
  
  
• Poppin' Full of Extras!
  By A3E832FY3AIKFT on 2004-10-15
  The film speaks for itself. As fresh and damn well entertaining as it was forty years ago, this is How To Make a Family Movie 101. The cast are uniformly excellent (ignoring Dick Van Dyke's appaulling Cockney accent) and the songs are by far the Sherman Brothers' best. The extended running time never drags and the script sparkles with it's aim at every demographic.
  The extras are still a little sketchy - the 'plus much more' not boding very well - but the real gem of this is the commentary. Very few classic movies of this vintage are lucky enough to have their two principle performers still alive and I really had hoped that Andrews and Van Dyke would take to the microphone. I am not disappointed! Hopefully this will be an all-new group commentary and not just interveiw snippets spliced together.
  The other hope for this disc - and this one seems less likely - is that this will be released around the same time as the stage production of the movie hits the London stage. I would love to see some coverage of this show on the extras ala Lion King and Beauty and the Beast, but since the show will be in it's infancy, I doubt whether there would be time to assemble such footage. We may have to wait for the fiftieth anniversary edition for that!
  
  
• Mary Poppins - 40 years and still looking great!
  By ABH4G7TVI6G2T on 2004-12-15
  The all-new 40th Anniversary edition of MARY POPPINS is definitely a must-own for all fans of the movie, and has been well worth the wait. As the editorial review states, this is the third DVD of MARY POPPINS to be released. The last edition (on the Gold Classics label) featured a great print but scant extras and fans simply knew that the Disney company should have done a better job remastering and releasing one of their most beloved films. Our prayers have been answered!
  
  This brand-new MARY POPPINS features a state-of-the-art new digital restored print (similar to that done on the SNOW WHITE Platinum Edition), and a veritable carpetbag-full of extra features, the big highlight being an audio commentary by Dame Julie Andrews, Dick Van Dyke and Karen Dotrice among others.
  
  It is indeed a thrilling movie experience. Out of the dreary London skies soars Mary Poppins, who sets about restoring the love and friendships in the fractured Banks family. Along the way Mary leads us through many magical adventures including a 'Jolly Holiday' inside a pavement chalk picture, a tea party on the ceiling with Uncle Albert and a dance on the rooftops with Bert and his chimney-sweep pals.
  
  Other 'Supercalafragilisticexpialidocious' extras include a sequence deleted from the picture ("Chimpanzoo"), to an all-new retrospective documemtary with interviews with all the surviving lead cast-members. Julie Andrews (who has renewed her ties to the Disney family with her role as Queen Clarisse in the PRINCESS DIARIES films) also has a lovely chat with Dick Van Dyke and composer Richard Sherman as they reminisce about making the movie.
  
  If you own the earlier DVD edition and think you've seen MARY POPPINS think again! This all-new 40th Anniversary tribute is the ultimate testament to this magical Disney masterpiece! Buy it today!
  
  
  
• Lesson One in how to PROPERLY restore a movie!
  By A2R6RA8FRBS608 on 2004-12-16
  This edition of Mary Poppins will captivate you and entertain you to no end! GRIN Finally, a QUALITY two DVD set of this awesome classic Disney picture! I remember seeing Mary Poppins when I was much younger and this release does not disappoint! It is loaded with extras and the quality of the picture and sound is excellent!
  
  The plot of the movie involves Julie Andrews as Mary Poppins, a magical nanny who becomes the governess of the Banks children who have a stuffed shirt father. (By the way, this part is similar to the role Julie would play the following year as Maria in The Sound of Music.) How Mary finds out about the job is in itself magical since the father of the Banks children had thrown away the letter they wrote asking for a nanny! We never get to know where she came from, either! Mary uses her love and natural powers to bring joy to the Banks children without ever being too overbearingly "preachy." Later on in the movie the father is faced with the possible loss of his job and the moral of the story is delivered to the audience in a very well done fashion.
  
  The acting is superlative and the musical numbers are unforgettable. To this day "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious" remains an extremely catchy song and the other songs like "Chim Chim Cher-ee" and "A Spoonful of Sugar" are completely enchanting!
  
  But there's more! This DVD set is loaded--and I mean loaded--with valuable extras that will entertain you and raise your understanding of how the film was made as well as its history. For example, there's "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious: The Making of Mary Poppins" - a new 50-minute documentary, footage of the "Gala Movie Premiere," and a make up test for Dyke Van Dyke. There are songs and games for children (and the children in us), too!
  
  After you see this you will understand why the movie got Julie Andrews a Best Actress Oscar (in her film debut, no less) and why Dick Van Dyke is so talented and perfect for his role as Mary's boyfriend. (Look for Van Dyke also in the role of the senior officer of the bank!) All together the film received 13 Oscar nominations including Best Song for "Chim Chim Cher-ee!" Although some of the technical effects are not the state of today's art, the film did receive Oscar awards for technical effects and music. Simply put, I highly recommend this two DVD set for Disney fans, Julie Andrews and Dick Van Dyke fans, and fans of musicals. This edition of Mary Poppins will not disappoint!
  
  
  
• Mary Poppins - All Spruced Up
  By A1S31XLRRB11US on 2004-12-29
  This is the third DVD release of the Disney classic, and the studio's current technology has given us a print that probably looks better than it did in 1964 - not a scratch to be found anywhere. The first DVD release presented a copy of the movie that showed little or no remastering at all, with a faded image and sound to boot. Everything looked and sounded much better in the second release, the first to use 5.1 audio. But anyone watching the present DVD for the first time should appreciate all the work done during the immaculate restoration. The image is incredibly sharp, bringing out even the smallest freckles on Julie Andrews' face.
  
  Audio selections are varied on this new disc, including a French and a Spanish track, and three English tracks. The sound is a marvel in 5.1 Disney Enhanced Home Theater Mix - what a treat! However, this "Mix", and the 2.0 version of the mix, sounds somewhat blurred when heard on TV speakers. A good test is when the chorus enters during the main title sequence, singing "Chim Chim Cher-ee". Normally, the chorus is up front and focused, but with the Enhanced Mix on TV they tend to be behind the already distanced orchestra. For TV speakers only, viewers are encouraged to choose the Original 2.0 Theatrical Mix, which sharpens the sound considerably.
  
  Extras are very fun and informative.
  
  One of the best DVD's of the year.
  
  
• Mary Poppins (40th Anniversary Edition)
  By A339EG6BJHZRJ3 on 2005-01-24
  We are a 3 generation Mary Poppins family. I saw it as a young child--when it first came out, grew up with the MP music books and repeated viewings of Mary Poppins.
  I ordered the VCR tape approximately 20 years ago at a premium price. I am still using it. My 3 sons grew up with Mary Poppins, learning each and every line to the songs and script. They played "Mary Poppins". Now my 2-1/2 year old granddaughter is the biggest fan--2-3 times a day the video is viewed. I purchased 2 sets of the DVDs as well as the music CDs for 2004 Christmas. Our granddaughter sings to the music, knows each scene and hushes us as not to miss a particular song. She does the Spit-Spot mirror scene-hand gestures and all!
  Mary Poppins--is wonderful!
  
  
  
• Perfect in Every Way
  By A2I6MHMAZZDCRX on 2005-03-01
  The Banks family is in need of a new nanny for Jane and Michael. Fortunately, one arrives on the wind in the form of Mary Poppins. She's everything the kids want, fun and magical. But while she's taking them to chalk painting countrysides and tea parties on the ceiling, their father is less then happy. Can he be made to see beyond the end of his nose?
  
  Ok, so this movie is really little more then an excuse for song and dance numbers. It's still great! The plot is paper thin, and you loose site of it in the middle of some of their fantastic scenes. Of course, part of that is because the movie is based on a book that is really nothing but short stories. Still this movie is more about fun then anything else. And it has that in spades. What kid wouldn't have fun imaging that they get to do all the things that Jane and Michael do in this movie?
  
  It's said that Walt Disney poured everything he had learned into making this film, and it shows. Many of the special effects hold up remarkably well today. There were some I still hadn't figured out until watching this special edition. And the music! Any fan of Disney knows these songs by heart. And you can't help but find yourself humming "A Spoonful of Sugar," "Jolly Holiday," "Let's Go Fly a Kite," or "Chim Chim Cher-ee" for days after seeing it.
  
  Those wanting to own a great DVD of this film won't be disappointed in this two-disc set. Disc one features the movie in all its wide screen glory. I can't see how it's ever looked better. The soundtrack has many different options, but the Home Theater mix will blow you away. It's fantastic. There is also a commentary track featuring Julie Andrews, Dick van Dyke, Karen Dubice (Jane), and Richard Sherman. Sprinkled in are archive comments from others, including Disney himself. Also included are some pop up facts to read along with while watching the movie. Disc two features a new documentary on the film, a deleted song, and more on the music with Julie, Dick, and the composers. And be sure to check out the animated "The Cat That Looked at a King," a tale adapted from one of the later books in the series.
  
  One thing that comes through loud and clear in this set is how much fun everyone had making it and how much they respect Walt Disney. The fact that this film has lasted 40 years is testament to his genius. With this set, it'll be enjoyed by generations to come.
  
  

• The Sound of Music (Two-Disc 40th Anniversary Special Edition)
• Chitty Chitty Bang Bang (Full Screen Edition)
• Bedknobs and Broomsticks (30th Anniversary Edition)
• The Wizard of Oz (Two-Disc Special Edition)
• Annie (Special Anniversary Edition)