Emily Blunt Shares Heartwarming Anecdote About Dick Van Dyke Moving Colin Firth to Tears on Set of ‘Mary Poppins’
The enchanting world of Hollywood often brings together seasoned actors, creating moments that resonate beyond the confines of the screen. Such was the case when Emily Blunt recently reminisced about a touching experience involving Dick Van Dyke and Colin Firth on the set of ‘Mary Poppins Returns’.
In an exclusive conversation with PEOPLE at the Los Angeles premiere of her latest film, ‘The Smashing Machine’, Emily Blunt, renowned for her versatile acting skills, delved into a cherished memory from the filming of the 2018 hit movie. The actress, known for her role as Mary Poppins in the sequel to the beloved classic, recounted how Dick Van Dyke, who was nearing his centenary at the time, left the cast in awe with his timeless charm and talent.
Blunt recounted a poignant moment where Van Dyke, about to perform a tap dancing sequence, insisted on carrying out the intricate routine without assistance from his co-stars, Lin-Manuel Miranda and herself. The scene unfolded with Van Dyke gracefully dancing onto a desk, evoking a whirlwind of emotions that even moved the stoic Colin Firth to tears. Blunt described the experience as “incredible”, highlighting the profound impact Van Dyke’s presence had on everyone on set.
The sequel to the 1964 classic, ‘Mary Poppins Returns’, not only paid homage to the original film but also introduced a new generation to the magic of Mary Poppins. With Van Dyke reprising his role as Mr. Dawes Jr., the movie captivated audiences with its blend of nostalgia and fresh storytelling, making it a memorable addition to the beloved franchise.
Beyond her role in ‘Mary Poppins Returns’, Emily Blunt’s latest venture, ‘The Smashing Machine’, sees her portraying the character of Dawn Staples alongside Dwayne Johnson’s Mark Kerr. The biographical film delves into the life of MMA fighter Kerr, exploring the highs and lows of his career amidst personal challenges, including his relationship with Staples.
Reflecting on her collaboration with Johnson in ‘The Smashing Machine’, Blunt commented on the actor’s magnetic charisma and expressed admiration for his eagerness to explore new creative avenues. She highlighted Johnson’s restlessness for artistic growth and commended director Benny Safdie for recognizing and harnessing the actor’s potential in their upcoming project.
‘The Smashing Machine’, set to hit theaters on October 3, promises to offer audiences a compelling narrative anchored by powerful performances from Blunt and Johnson. As Blunt shared insights into the process of bringing the film to life, she underscored the synergy between her co-stars and the director, hinting at a promising cinematic experience for viewers.
In the realm of Hollywood storytelling, moments like the one shared by Emily Blunt serve as testaments to the enduring magic of cinema. Through heartfelt recollections and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, actors offer glimpses into the camaraderie and artistry that shape memorable on-screen moments, inviting audiences to appreciate the dedication and talent that bring characters to life.
As audiences await the release of ‘The Smashing Machine’, Blunt’s narrative of camaraderie and inspiration on the set of ‘Mary Poppins Returns’ resonates as a poignant reminder of the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of iconic performances. Emily Blunt’s tribute to Dick Van Dyke’s timeless talent and the emotional impact he had on his fellow actors serves as a testament to the enduring allure of cinematic storytelling and the indelible mark left by legendary performers on the hearts of audiences.