Today, Disney Home Entertainment is releasing Mary Poppins for the first time on Blu-ray, to coincide with the upcoming 50th anniversary of the classic musical, and the release of the excellent Saving Mr. Banks.  Based on the books by P.L. Travers, the film follows a magical nanny (Julie Andrews) and a charming chimney sweep (Dick Van Dyke) who bring joy to the lives of two kids and their unhappy father, Mr. Banks (David Tomlinson).

Nominated for eleven Academy Awards including Best Picture, and winning Julie Andrews an Oscar for her iconic portrayal of the title character, Mary Poppins is a classic filled with delightful musical numbers and excellent songs from the Sherman Brothers.  This shiny new Blu-ray edition is an excellent gift idea for fans of the 1964 film, and the beloved Mary Poppins is especially worth revisiting before seeing the wonderful Saving Mr. Banks.

The Blu-ray includes a conversation with Richard Sherman and Jason Schwartzman who portrays the iconic songwriter in Saving Mr. Banks, as well as “Mary-Oke” sing along.  The classic DVD bonuses are also featured, including the deleted song “Chimpanzoo,” a lengthy documentary on the making of the film and numerous other featurettes.

Mary Poppins is 139 minutes and rated G.

-John C.