Where to start withMary Poppins
2 versions · originally a film, 1964
Themes: Absentee Parent, Magical Realism, Childhood Wonder, Family Reconciliation, Nanny.
Start with Mary Poppins (Robert Stevenson, 1964) — the film. Mary Poppins exists in 2 versions across media, beginning as a film in 1964; each is ranked below by what it does best.
The enduring magic of Mary Poppins lies in a supernatural nanny using whimsical musical adventures to mend fractured family dynamics.
✦ Most fans start here
Mary Poppins (1964)

The original movie
✦ Start hereMary Poppins
Robert Stevenson · Film · 1964
Mary Poppins (1964) serves as the definitive cinematic introduction, blending iconic musical numbers with a heartwarming narrative that remains the gold standard for high-fantasy family storytelling and character charm.

2018 film
Mary Poppins Returns
Rob Marshall · Film · 2018
Mary Poppins Returns (2018) offers a nostalgic, modern-day continuation that revisits the Banks household. It is best suited for viewers seeking a visual tribute to the original's whimsical, magical aesthetic.
Common questions
What order should I watch the Mary Poppins movies in?
You should watch the 1964 Mary Poppins film first to establish the original story and characters. After finishing that, you can proceed to watch Mary Poppins Returns, which serves as a sequel to the events depicted in the initial 1964 production.
Is Mary Poppins Returns a direct sequel to the 1964 Mary Poppins?
Yes, Mary Poppins Returns functions as a sequel to the 1964 movie Mary Poppins. It continues the narrative established in the original film, allowing viewers to see the evolution of the story and characters within the same cinematic universe.
How long is the original Mary Poppins movie?
The original Mary Poppins movie released in 1964 has a total runtime of 139 minutes. This duration covers the entire story as presented in the source material for the first film before you move on to any subsequent sequels like Mary Poppins Returns.
Should I watch Mary Poppins before Mary Poppins Returns?
It is recommended to watch the 1964 Mary Poppins before viewing Mary Poppins Returns. Watching the original film provides the necessary context and background for the characters and themes that are further explored in the 2018 sequel.