If you’re after something heartwarming, joyful and full of love Mrs. Harris goes to Paris is exactly what you’re looking for.
Based on the 1958 novel Mrs. ‘Arris Goes to Paris by Paul Gallico this feel good film will be enjoyed by everyone.
Set in the 1950s Mrs. Harris loves each day wondering if her husband will ever come home from the war. Knowing there is a chance he may never return, the hope keeps her going.
As a cleaning lady her multiple houses brings each a curious story. A curious number of younger family members on a different day of the week for one gentleman. The struggling actress who needs a motherly figure, and a cleaner. Or the well to do lady of the house who treats anyone below her with no respect.
Nothing changes in her day to day. That is until she finds a Dior dress lying on a chair of one of her clients’ houses. Memorised and completely in awe of the beauty and craftsmanship Mrs. Harris decides she must have one.
Saving and scrimping all her money she comes short. That is until the terrible news of her husband finally reaches her and she is now a widow. With this news comes a silver lining, a large amount of money owed to her in compensation of her loss.
With that and a little luck gambling Mrs. Arris sets off to Paris to get her a Dior dress. Here ensues the humour of all the cultural differences. But in turn her never faulting charm manages to see her play cupid, save a company from ruin and feel what it is to love again.
While this has been made a number of times; originally in 1958 starring Gracie Fields and again in 1992 with Angela Lansbury, the charm of the story holds strong even today. The movie taps into that nurturing, motherly hug everyone needs. From the grumpy shop lady to the lost and confused model, everyone needs a little bit of Mrs. Harris to remind them they’re doin just fine.
Set in the 1950s the period piece is a nice backdrop to the story. It also lets the audience go on a journey as well as building a relationship with the characters.
Leading the cast as Mrs. Harris is Lesley Manville (The Crown, Maleficent, Let Him Go). This is perfect casting for the role, Manville does something that is familiar, warm and inviting. Her confidence in herself, her charm but most of all her drive to help others be their better selves jumps out of the screen.
Overall, Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is the most heartwarming movie everyone needs to see this year. It’s that classic tale of the blue collar worker sticking it to the man and changing lives along the way. A beautiful film for everyone.
