'Mary Poppins Returns' News, Release Date: Disney Releases First Look Photo of Emily Blunt As the Titular Nanny

By Denise See, Christian Post Contributor Monday, March 06, 2017

She is back! Disney has released the official first look photo from "Mary Poppins Returns." Featuring a familiar figure standing at a street that fans know very well, the image sees Emily Blunt dressed as the magical nanny.

The ensemble takes inspiration from the outfit Julie Andrews wore in the original 1964 film. In the photo, Blunt dons a rich blue coat and light blue gloves. She wears a quirky hat reminiscent of the one from the first film. And Mary Poppins would not be Mary Poppins without her trusty carpet bag.

This is likely the first of many teasers to come since the "Mary Poppins" sequel is not due to arrive in theaters until Christmas 2018. Hopefully, as the months go by, fans will also get a glimpse at the film's other characters: Lin-Manuel Miranda's Jack the lamplighter, Meryl Streep's Topsy, Ben Whishaw's Michael Banks, Emily Mortimer's Jane Banks, Colin Firth's William Weatherall Wilkins, Julie Walters as Ellen and even Dick Van Dyke's cameo character.

It was previously reported that Angela Lansbury had been cast to play the role of Balloon Lady, who will meet Mary Poppins and the grown-up Banks children at a park. "Mary Poppins Returns" picks up 25 years after the events of the first film. Mary Poppins arrives back at 17 Cherry Tree Lane to guide Jane and Michael, who are now navigating their lives as adults. Her return is crucial, especially to Michael, who has just suffered a tragic loss. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of quirky characters, including Miranda's Jack and Streep's Topsy, who happens to be Mary's cousin.

Rob Marshall is directing the sequel, which will not be the first time he has worked with Blunt or Streep. Marshall previously directed the two actresses in 2014's musical film "Into the Woods." "Mary Poppins Returns" marks the third time Blunt and Streep appear in a movie together, after having starred in 2006's "The Devil Wears Prada" as well.

"Mary Poppins Returns" is scheduled to premiere on Dec. 25, 2018.