Even though the sound of it may sound atrocious at first, Entertainment Weekly brings word that Disney is planning to move forward with a new Mary Poppins film set a full 20 years after the events of the 1964 classic.
Based once again on PL Travers’ novel series about the astute, magical character, the House of Mouse is reportedly gunning to add a new chapter in the world of whimsical characters and airborne nannies, with early reports championing Anne Hathaway as a favorite to land the coveted title part. Granted, Disney didn’t mention anything regarding the follow-up’s cast, though it did confirm a member of the team on the other side of the lens in the form of Into The Woods helmer Rob Marshall.
He’s on board to direct the musical sequel for Disney, reuniting with collaborators John DeLuca and Mark Platt for the new-fangled take on Mary Poppins. According to EW’s report, the early crew members have been in contact with the Travers estate for some time as they look to bring the sequel to life, with original songwriter Richard Sherman lending his support for the sequel.
While our knee-jerk reaction to news of a Mary Poppins follow-up is immediate trepidation, there is plenty of source material for Marshall and Co. to delve into. Indeed Travers expanded on the character of the title nanny across a series that stretched from 1934 and 1988. For Disney’s sequel, it’s understood that Miss Poppins will be paying a visit to the Banks family in Depression-era London.
Aside from Hathaway being considered for the role, it’s understood that Disney already has eyes on some other of Hollywood’s leadings ladies; specifically Carey Mulligan, Meryl Streep and Into the Woods‘ alum Anna Kendrick.
There’s little-to-no information regarding a release date for the studio’s Mary Poppins sequel, but we’ll keep you updated as this magical story develops.