Mary Poppins, the beloved 1964 film featuring Julie Andrews in the lead role, has recently undergone a change in its age classification by British film regulators due to the inclusion of what is deemed as “discriminatory language”.
Originally rated as U for universal audiences, the film has now been reclassified as PG, indicating parental guidance is advised.
The adjustment stems from the use of a derogatory term historically employed by white Europeans to describe nomadic peoples in southern Africa, particularly about the soot-covered chimney sweeps depicted in the movie.
This language, deemed inappropriate by current standards, prompted the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) to reconsider the film’s classification, as it no longer aligns with contemporary guidelines for U-rated films.
Mary Poppins, set in 1910 London, tells the story of a magical nanny portrayed by Dame Julie Andrews, who cares for a family’s children alongside Bert, a cheerful chimney sweep played by Dick Van Dyke.
Despite its acclaim, including five Oscars in 1965, the film has faced scrutiny for instances of outdated language and perspectives, such as the repeated use of the aforementioned term by the character Admiral Boom.
The BBFC’s decision to reclassify the film reflects broader societal shifts in attitudes towards language and representation, acknowledging the need to reassess older works through a modern lens.
Furthermore, the BBFC emphasizes the importance of parental guidance for PG-rated content, particularly regarding potentially distressing or offensive language, aiming to ensure that viewers, especially children, engage with media in a manner appropriate to their age and sensitivity levels.
While the U rating suggests suitability for audiences aged four and older, the BBFC acknowledges the variability of individual sensitivities and encourages parents to assess whether the film’s content may be unsettling for younger or more sensitive viewers.
In light of ongoing discussions surrounding representation and inclusivity in media, Mary Poppins’ reclassification serves as a reminder of the evolving standards within the film industry and the importance of contextualizing historical works within contemporary understandings of social responsibility and cultural sensitivity.
