We get to visit with an old friend

In Mary Poppins Returns

by Kathia Woods

Mary Poppins is one of the most beloved children's stories of all time.

Julie Andrew is irreplaceable. So when Disney announced it would revisit this classic, there were many doubts. How can one improve upon perfection? The answer is don't.

"Mary Poppins Returns" is a continuation of the original, not a remake.

I like many had my reservations.

In "Mary Poppins Returns" the Bank's kids are no longer little but full-grown adults with children of their own. Michael Banks is now living in his parents’ home newly widowed and struggling. His sister Jane is an activist. Michael's children aware of the turmoil are trying their best to assist their father with the household chores but Georgie the youngest is more interested in chasing kites.

In comes Mary Poppin to save the day.

Emily Blunt is delightful as Marry Poppins. She's funny and can sing. Her entrance into London is perfection. One of my favorite scenes in the movie is the bathtub scene. Everything is on point from her mannerism to her costumes. She is just a delight.

Lin Manuel-Miranda is energetic as Jack. He's a right balance for Blunt's Mary Poppins. Another highlight of the movie was Dick Van Dyke as Mr. Dawes Jr. The beauty of this version of Mary Poppins is that it helps rekindle great memories of our youth.

This version may not have the big songs of its predecessor however the scene where the live action blends with the animation are stellar.

Is this as good as the original? No, however, that was never the intent.

It’s an independent movie, and it's a fun movie.

"Mary Poppins Returns" is an excellent adventure for the whole family. It's sure to become a holiday favorite for a new generation of kids.

Scale-It receives an eight from me because of Emily Blunt.

Diversity- The idea that Lin Manuel Miranda is in this is sure to inspire more Latinx kids. Also the casting of Kobna Holdbrook-Smith as Frye/Weasel the banker that doesn't want to foreclose is a bonus.