Viewed in
1996, 2007
Premise
Two kids, neglected by their money-driven father, meet a magical nanny.
Who should watch
Those who like weird, but family-friendly musicals. Julie Andrews fans.
Thoughts
Of all of Disney's animation films, this was arguable one of the best.
There was plenty of imaginative magic, silly comedy and catchy music to keep a child entertained. As an adult, I admired the quirky music and the visual technology. While not as pioneering as 'Who Framed Roger Rabbit', the combination of animation and live-action sequences was very good.
Julie Andrews was, a la Mary Poppins, 'practically perfect in every way'. Dick Van Dyke was a scene stealer as the Bert and the elder Mr. Dawes. His penguin dance scene was my favorite. The actress who played Jane was super cute. The only actor that bugged me was the one who played Michael, he never felt like a natural kid, which was weird, because he was a kid.
To me the weakest thing was the story, even for a kiddie musical. I can't put my finger on it why. There were scenes/songs that I wasn't sure if they were supposed to be funny, scary, sad, or moral. Also, what was the history behind Bert and Mary? Then again, as she once said 'I never explain anything'. You could blame it on my cynicism, but Bert's character bothered me, because in essence, he was a bum portrayed as a glorious lifestyle.
Despite some flaws, the film will always be a must-see for all movie watchers. You are never a kid or an adult until you have seen it.
What I would change
Not sure.
