The Real Mary Poppins

The 2013 movie, The Real Mary Poppins, is a compelling biographical drama that explores the intricate and tangled relationship between P.L. Travers, the creator of "Mary Poppins", and Walt Disney. Not to be confused with the fictional nanny character, this 'real' Mary Poppins represents the creative force, Pamela Lyndon Travers, who breathed life into the beloved character. The film journeys through Travers' emotions, her reservations about handing her precious creation over to mass movie production, and the significant hurdles Walt Disney had to cross to create the iconic film.

In "The Real Mary Poppins", Leeanna Walsman takes on the role of P.L. Travers, delivering an exceptional performance that truly embodies the essence of the author. She successfully brings to life the nuances of Travers' complexities and contradictions, portraying the story of a woman who was as stern and unyielding as she was imaginative. Walsman's performance provides the audience with an in-depth look into the life of the woman behind the enchanting Mary Poppins.

Walt Disney, portrayed by Ross Dawes in the film, is seen overly passionate about bringing Mary Poppins to the big screen. However, he faces resistance from Travers who needs to be convinced that Disney isn't going to reduce her sophisticated, multi-faceted characters into singing cartoons. The film tries to delve into this ongoing negotiation and disagreement between two creative forces and how they strive to find a mid-way, keeping the essence of the character, Mary Poppins, alive, yet making it appealing to the masses.

The supporting cast also impresses, with Zoe Carides portraying Travers' empathetic mother, Margaret Goff, with depth and authenticity. Alice Lily Zahalka shines as the young and lively P.L. Travers, providing the audience a glimpse into the author’s backstory and personal life. This background helps viewers understand her motivations and her apprehensions better as the film progresses.

"The Real Mary Poppins" captures Travers' apprehensions about relinquishing control over her intellectual property. It accurately portrays the conundrum many authors face when their work is being adapted for different media, amplifying creative differences, and market forces. For P.L. Travers, this struggle was personal too - as this character held a special place in her heart.

Directed by Lisa Matthews and produced by Ian Collie, "The Real Mary Poppins" is a well-scripted narrative that meticulously details the author's life. It adds layers to our understanding of the iconic character Mary Poppins, and her creator, making the character even more endearing to us. It shows that behind every great work of fiction lies a storyteller who puts in their heart and soul into their creations.

The film's set design is another high point, offering a beautifully nostalgic glimpse of the early 20th century. The lighting and cinematography also aids in creating a whimsical ambiance, paralleling the magical world Travers created in her books. The vivid imagery, combined with beautifully orchestrated music, immerses us into the world of these iconic characters outside their book.

"The Real Mary Poppins" is more than just a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Mary Poppins. It’s a moving account of an author and her creation, a celebration of imagination, creativity, and a slice of literary and cinematic history. It’s a must-watch for Mary Poppins fanatics and anyone who appreciates the process behind taking a story from page to screen.

The film provokes thought about the implications of big cinema on the integrity of books and the author's apprehensions. It attempts to bring to the fore, the human side of these iconic creators, their strengths, vulnerabilities, resilience, and their battle to hold onto their creative vision.

In conclusion, "The Real Mary Poppins" is a compelling exploration into a beautifully complex narrative behind one of the most iconic children's characters of all times. With emotionally charged performances, meticulous attention to detail and a captivating storyline, this film takes viewers on an enlightening journey through an unforgettable chapter of cinematic history.