04/22/06 Nanny McPhee

Nanny McPhee (2005), directed by Kirk Jones

watched w/ Leslie; theater (Blue Ridge Cinema, Raleigh, NC)

Charming. Isn't that what the British would say? I went into this film figuring it to be at least mildly entertaining and somewhat cute. I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was completely charming and one of those great family films that all should enjoy. The films that I like in the so-called "family" section have to come with a twist of lemon, or at least a hint of dark (chocolate perhaps) for me to fully enjoy them. This one falls right into that magical category, along the lines of a "Mary Poppins" mixed in with 1/3 "Matilda" and 1/3 "Lemony Snicket." Adapted from the British "Nurse Matilda" books, the series follows the family of a recent widower Mr. Brown (Colin Firth). Having 7 children who misbehave and drive nannies away with rapid succession, a dismal job as an undertaker that doesn't pay enough to keep his family secure, a longing flirtation with the help (Kelly MacDonald), and a wicked aunt (cackle-riffic Anglea Lansbury) who's monthly allowance pays the bills; Mr. Brown is in quite a fix. That is until he heeds the mysterious callings of one Nanny McPhee. Emma Thompson (who also adapted the screenplay) brings life into the magical role of the nanny who uses her special powers to get the children to behave and learn valuable life lessons along the way. Mr. Brown is forced by his mean aunt to chose a wife within the month to retain any hope of keeping his family together, and is put in the predicament of marrying a tacky local lady. The children at first do not take kindly to Nanny McPhee's approach to discipline, rebelling at every chance, but soon realize the importance of working together for what they love. The usual tale of right & wrong, where everything ends up happy, but you're glad it did. The sets and wardrobes are full of color and creativity, the actors play off each other well, and the fantasy elements of nanny hocus-pocus are vibrant and over-the-top. Charming, quite charming indeed.

4 out of 5 stars