Based on the 1958 book by Paul Gallico, Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is set in the 1950s and follows Mrs. Harris (Lesley Manville), a widowed cleaning lady from London who feels very lost after the recent death of her husband. She seems to be struggling with what to do next, but realizes that when she listens to heart, her husband is leading her in the right direction. With hard work and a little luck, Mrs. Harris is able to save up and take a trip to Paris to come in contact with her real dream -- a Christian Dior couture gown. While visiting the House of Dior, she realizes the true importance of Dior and helps others acknowledge this along the way.
This film really taps into the 1950s era with sets, costumes and locations that fit the decade. The film takes into account all the events happening at the time and incorporates them into the storyline. For example, the war had just ended and that is referred to multiple times, and woven into the story. There was also a strike in Paris going on that led to dirty streets, which we see in the film. In so many ways, the film is so true to the era and you see it in a multitude of details. I really enjoyed seeing how fashion is incorporated into the movie. Since the storyline revolves around a major fashion designer, Christian Dior, and his brand, we see how that affected society across from many socio-economic backgrounds. There is a lot of fashion history included in the film, which is especially interesting to me, since I love fashion. I enjoyed how each character's wardrobe is so outstanding and typical of the 1950s.
The message of Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is to always follow your heart, and stick up for what you believe in.
I give Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris opens in theaters July 15, 2022.
By Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16
I enjoyed Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris and so will people who stand up for what they believe. Ada Harris is an admirable character that serves as a positive role model.
The storyline follows Ada Harris (Lesley Manville), a 1950s widowed housekeeper. After falling in love with a Dior dress, Mrs. Harris decides she must have one of them and takes off on a journey to Paris, where she discovers what she truly needs in life.
I love everything about how this film looks from the scenery, to the actors, the music, the script -- everything fits the storyline so perfectly. All the actors are fabulous; every prop is in the exact right place; there is just so much hard work put into this film and it really shows. One of the most outstanding contributions to the movie is from the writers. The script is so perfect. Mrs. Harris' story sticks out to me because, while all of the other characters are young and have years to figure out what's important to them, Mrs. Harris is already half way through her life, and still isn't truly happy. Alba Baptista who plays Natasha did an amazing job! I loved her performance so much! My favorite scene is the Dior fashion show. Everything about that scene is terrific; the dresses are beautiful, the actresses playing the models made me feel as if I was in the Dior showroom.
The message of Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is to never give up. Mrs. Harris is determined to help the workers at Dior when she helps them strike. She is determined to buy the dress, and best of all, she never gives up.
I give Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 to 18 plus adults. It releases in theatres on July 15, 2022.
By Kendall B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 11
Fashionable, inspiring and magical are just the words to describe Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris! Based on the book of the same name by Paul Gallico, this film will make you smile and encourage you to follow you heart and dreams. This wouldn't be a fairytale without a dress, and this princess wants a Christian Dior dress from Paris.
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris follows Mrs. Ada Harris (Lesley Manville), a post war widow and housekeeper in London, who becomes mesmerized with one of her wealthy client's Christian Dior dresses. Mrs. Harris decides she must have the dress, which was created by the House of Dior in Paris, France. She doesn't quite have the money to purchase the dress or even get to Paris, but she doesn't let that stand in her way. Through luck, other's kindness and hard work, Mrs. Harris gets the chance to try to fulfill her dream.
This is a must-see family film. This film is a heartwarming, drama-filled romantic story of Mrs. Harris and her trip to Paris, as she searches for what she wants, but also gets more than what she thinks she needs. Mrs. Harris is a strong protagonist. Fans should not make the mistake some of the film's characters do and underestimate Mrs. Harris. She is fierce and witty; looks out for everyone and is sure to be a fan favorite. From the Dior fashion show scenes, the stunning Dior dresses, and the behind-the-scenes shots -- this film gives a real insider tour of the Paris fashion world in the 1950s. The Christian Dior dress Mrs. Harris wants symbolizes dreams, newfound respect, an opportunity to be seen again and overall, a new life for her. Throughout the film, you will emotionally connect and relate to Mrs. Harris and her journey. The flow of this film is perfect, and all the characters are likable and relatable.
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is about dreaming big and following your dreams despite any obstacles that may get in your way. We all want "something" in life. Mrs. Harris dreamed about going to Paris and purchasing the sparkly Dior dress. She didn't let lack of money, discrimination or anything else hold her back from trying to get her dress. Parents should be aware there are scenes with drinking and some rude language.
I give Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for kids ages 8 to 18, plus adults. It releases in theaters July 15, 2022.
By Tiana S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12
KIDS FIRST! Goes Local: Submit a review & win!
Kid Critic video review by KENDALL BLAUSER |
Kid Critic video review by MIKELLA GIUSTINO |
Kid Critic video review by MIKELLA GIUSTINO |
Kid Critic video review by TIANA SIRMANS |