Mary Poppins’ Returns as Emily Blunt takes over the role from Julie Andrews over 50 years since the Disney original musical won the hearts of children of all ages.
The new sequel will feature a modern sensibility while celebrating the spirit of the original classic, with an added bonus of Dick Van Dyke returning in the role of Mr. Dawes Jr..
Blunt took to the stage at the D23 Expo in Anaheim, CA along with director/producer Rob Marshall to discuss the highly-anticipated return of the practically-perfect, enigmatic nanny.
“I needed to try to pay homage to Julie Andrews but carve out a new space for myself. And we were very loyal to the books,” said Blunt.
Thanks to the recent Disney hit, Saving Mr. Banks, which added to the interest of the Marry Poppins legacy, Marshall made sure to be respectful to the original film while giving it a new flavor.
“I was incredibly honored to be approached by Disney about directing a sequel. This is a brand new original film musical from top to bottom, which is very rare, and it is a wonderful opportunity creating something specifically for the screen,” said Marshall during the presentation.
There is no word yet if Richard Sherman, one of the original composers on the first film will be involved with the Mary Poppins sequel, although he has written music for The Jungle Book stage play.
Mary Poppins Returns lands in theaters on December 25, 2018.