The British Board of Film Classification Upgrades “Mary Poppins” Rating Due to Discriminatory Language
The esteemed British film industry organization, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC), has recently revised the age rating for the cherished children’s classic “Mary Poppins” due to the inclusion of discriminatory language.
Background: A Look into the History of Mary Poppins and its Controversial Language
The Disney musical masterpiece “Mary Poppins,” released in 1964, is set to make a grand return to theaters in the United Kingdom this year as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. This nostalgic occasion has led the BBFC to reevaluate its initial rating for the film, which now stands as PG (Parental Guidance) due to the presence of a derogatory term – ‘hottentots.’
“Mary Poppins,” featuring Julie Andrews in her iconic title role and Dick Van Dyke, narrates the magical escapades of a nanny who intervenes in the chaotic life of the dysfunctional Banks family. A commercial and critical triumph during its time, “Mary Poppins” grossed more than $103 million at the box office and won five Academy Awards. The film also holds a significant place in American cinema history, as it was inducted into the National Film Registry by the Library of Congress in 2013. In addition to this, a long-awaited sequel was released in 2018.
Despite its enduring popularity, “Mary Poppins” has faced criticism for its portrayal of blackface and the use of the offensive term ‘hottentots.’ In the film, Admiral Boom, an eccentric character, uses this derogatory term twice. Firstly, while discussing adventures with a Banks child, and secondly, when he mistakes chimney sweeps with darkened faces for ‘hottentots’ in the distance.
Understanding the Origin and Implications of the Term “Hottentot”
The term ‘hottentots’ refers to the Khoikhoi peoples indigenous to southern Africa and Namibia. Originating from contact settlers, this term is a derogatory label that has been used to demean the indigenous population, perpetuating harmful stereotypes.
Implications of the Updated Rating and the BBFC’s Perspective
The PG rating for “Mary Poppins” implies that children can still watch the film without adult supervision. However, parents are encouraged to consider whether the potentially upsetting content is suitable for their younger or more sensitive children.
The BBFC’s 2021 report on racism in media found that, although viewers generally view such content as products of their respective eras, they prefer to be warned about objectionable material beforehand so that they can make informed decisions regarding their families’ exposure.
In recent times, the film industry has been grappling with handling racist or offensive content in classic films. In 2019, Disney+ started issuing disclaimers for films like “Dumbo” that contained culturally insensitive depictions. In 2020, Disney updated its warnings to more explicitly condemn racist content, with advisories appearing on films including “Lady and the Tramp” and “Peter Pan.”
Addressing Racial Sensitivities in Classic Films: A Continuous Effort
As the movie industry continues to evolve, it remains essential to acknowledge and learn from past mistakes while fostering a more inclusive future. Through these efforts, we can ensure that classic films like “Mary Poppins” are enjoyed by generations to come without perpetuating harmful stereotypes and offensive language.
