Why was Mary Poppins the most complained about film from last year?
Disney classic Mary Poppins has become one of the most controversial films of 2024 due to its use of ‘discriminatory wording’.
The childhood favourite was previously rated U (Universal) by the British Board of Film Classification but has since been reclassified as PG (Parental Guidance), now rejecting the idea that it is suitable for all audiences.
Disney classic Mary Poppins has become one of the most controversial films of 2024 due to its use of discriminatory wording. Pic: Donaldson Collection/Getty Images
The BBFC Annual Report and Accounts 2024 revealed that the reclassification was a point of anger for many with 56 complaints issued to them in 2024.
The BBFC explained that the movie was re-classified ahead of a cinema re-release in 2024 for the film’s 60th anniversary.
‘In line with our current guidelines, the film exceeds the U category for language with use of the discriminatory term “hottentots,”‘ they stated.
The 1964 musical stars Julie Andrews as Mary alongside Dick Van Dyke as Bert, the chimney sweep. Pic: Disney
The word is a derogatory term for an indigenous group of people from southern Africa, also known as the Khoikhoi.
There are two uses of the word in Mary Poppins, one of which sees Admiral Boom (played by Reginald Owen) using the term to describe the chimney sweeps.
The BBFC explained: ‘While the film has historical contest, the two uses of the discriminatory term are neither criticised or condemned, increasing the risk that very young viewers might repeat it without realising the potential for offence.’
Ten complaints were sent to the organisation about Barry Keoghan’s Saltburn. Pic: Amazon Prime Video
The report added that regular research confirms that a ‘key concern’ for parents is the possibility for children to be exposed to discriminatory language or behaviour.
Mary Poppins was the most complained about with a total of 224 complaints regarding BBFC classifications in 2024.
The movie is rated 15 with complaints coming in noting that the film’s depiction of sexual obsession was ‘too disturbing’ for 15.
BBFC responded: ‘Given the blackly comic tone of the film and that the key scenes, while strong, lacked graphic nudity and other visual explicitness, Saltburn meets our strandards at a 15 classification.’
