The beloved 1964 Disney classic Mary Poppins has found itself at the centre of controversy following its 2024 re-release. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has confirmed receiving complaints about the film's use of what some viewers deem 'discriminatory language'.
While the BBFC has maintained the film's U (Universal) rating, it has added a content warning about 'outdated language and attitudes'. The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to contextualise historical films for modern audiences.
What's Causing the Controversy?
The complaints reportedly focus on the scene where Admiral Boom refers to a chimney sweep's soot-covered face using a term now considered racially insensitive. This isn't the first time the film has faced scrutiny - in 2020, Disney+ added a similar disclaimer to several classic films.
BBFC's Stance on Historical Content
A BBFC spokesperson stated: 'We recognise that attitudes change over time, and content that was once deemed acceptable may now cause offence. Our role is to provide information to help viewers make informed choices.'
The board emphasised they don't advocate censoring historical works, but believe contextual warnings help modern audiences understand the social context in which these films were made.
Public Reaction Divided
Responses to the controversy have been mixed. Some viewers argue the warnings are necessary to acknowledge changing social norms, while others believe they represent excessive political correctness applied retroactively to classic cinema.
Film historian Dr. Emily Carter commented: 'These discussions are valuable as they help us engage critically with our cultural heritage. However, we must be careful not to judge historical works by contemporary standards alone.'
The re-release continues to be shown in cinemas nationwide, with the BBFC confirming no cuts have been made to the original film.
