The Truth Behind Julie Andrews' British Accent in Mary Poppins

Mary Poppins is a beloved classic, with Julie Andrews' portrayal of the magical nanny winning the hearts of audiences worldwide. Many viewers wonder why Julie Andrews has a distinct British accent in the film. In this article, we dive into the reasons behind her accent and provide a detailed explanation of the cultural and linguistic context of the movie.

Why Does Julie Andrews Have a British Accent?

Julie Andrews is a British actress who was born in Surrey, England. This fact accounts for her distinct British accent in the film. The character of Mary Poppins is a British governess or nanny, and it was natural for her to present the accent that aligns with both her background and the character's heritage. It's important to note that there is no such thing as a 'British accent' per se, as accents within the United Kingdom can vary significantly. However, for the purpose of this discussion, we will explore the accent as it is portrayed in the film and in her other British roles.

Clarification on Eleanor Oliphant is Losing Control

Some might argue that abnormality in accents is prominent in British films, citing the movie Eleanor Oliphant is Losing Control. However, it's crucial to differentiate the context. In this film, the British actor Emilia Clarke is speaking with an English accent, as she is a British actress portraying a British character. This illustrates that accents are influenced by the actor's background and the setting of the film.

Julie Andrews' Accent in Mary Poppins and Sound of Music

Consider another example from Julie Andrews' career, the role of Maria Von Trapp in the iconic film The Sound of Music. Julie Andrews played an Austrian character, and she used her natural English accent in this role. This demonstrates that accents are specific to the characters and settings within the narrative of the film, rather than a definitive indicator of an actor's native accent.

Julie Andrews' Received Pronunciation (RP) Accent

Julie Andrews has one of the most distinctive Received Pronunciation (RP) accents seen on screen. RP is a type of phonological accent that is associated with the highest levels of education and social status in England. Her accent in Mary Poppins is very precisely enunciated and carries a natural, non-contrived quality, as befits a character of her social standing in the story.

Conclusion

In summary, Julie Andrews' British accent in Mary Poppins is a reflection of her own British background and the character's origins. It is a natural and fitting choice for the role, rooted in both cultural and linguistic context. Whether portraying an English nanny or an Austrian governess, Julie Andrews' ability to adapt her accent is a testament to her skill as an actress.

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