The films of the most famous nanny in the world premiered in the summer days of 1964. The film was an impressive mix of animation and live action, as well as a brilliant interpretation of several topical social issues that were known in the 60s. It has maintained its popularity over the decades and with a new film right around the corner where Mary Poppins visits the children of the now grown Banks children, the original film sure to stay popular for years to come. Keep reading to learn more about the impact of the 'Mary Poppins' film and why both the film and movie memorabilia continue to be popular today!
Hollywood’s Boulevard had never been so full of stars and fans as when Disney’s 'Mary Poppins' was released on August 27th, 1964. Even Walt Disney himself was present for the first time since the premiere of 'Snow White' in 1937. The night was broadcasted live on local Los Angeles television and just recently film and sound elements of this premiere night were discovered in the Disney vaults, showing us the grandeur of the evening. 'Mary Poppins' was already a success long before it actually appeared on-screen!
Walt Disney with Julie Andrews and creator of 'Mary Poppins'
Academy Award Winner
All the fuss on premiere night was justified since the film was incredibly well received. In 1965 Mary Poppins was nominated for 13 Academy Awards. By winning 5 (including Best Actress in Leading Role (Julie Andrews) and Best Score) it remains the Disney film with the most awards even today. It was also the only film for which Walt Disney received an Academy nomination for “Best Picture”. Many theatre productions followed and even today’s generation of young ones is familiar with “just a spoon full of sugar”. The film was also selected for preservation at the Library of Congress in America for future generations to see it.
"Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious"
But what makes this film so good? Why was its impact so large? Well, aside from the fact that the acting is great and the story fits a child’s perception perfectly, the film featured an impressive mix of live acting and animation. There is a reason it won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects. The original and catchy songs in the film also contributed to its success: who doesn’t cheer up from “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious”? Everyday life with a hint of magic is exactly how children (and adults too, secretly) like it.
Equality and Education
Another reason Mary Poppins had a great impact on society, is because it discussed social issues that were very relevant at the time. For example, in the same year Title VΙΙ of the Civil Rights Act banned employment discrimination based on sex. A good start, but there was still a long way to go; as Mrs. Banks suggests by parading through the streets singing about “political equality and equal rights with men”. Not just Mary Poppins herself, but Mrs. Banks as well were icons of feminism in a happy, cheery Disney coat. For many women, Mary Poppins provided an example how to raise their own children. Structure and organisation first, but don’t ever forget the fun in life! In a time when authoritarian education was the standard, the personal development of Mr. Banks from a strict banker to a happy family man was very symbolic.
Altogether it can be said that Disney’s 'Mary Poppins' holds great cultural and societal value. But even before the film, the books written by P.L. Travers on which the film was based were very popular and successful. Both the vintage books and videos or toys of Mary Poppins regularly show up on our special Disney auction. Take a look and revel in the nostalgia or register here if you wish to sell your own special Mary Poppins item!