Metacritic Movie Ratings
Nanny McPhee Reviews

A sample of reviews from critics across the country.

• 75

  out of 100

  USA TodayClaudia Puig

  The film's look, fashioned by production designer Michael Howells, is noteworthy for its vibrant colors and fantastical feel.

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• 75

  out of 100

  Chicago Sun-TimesRoger Ebert

  Will kids like the movie? I suspect they will. Kids like to see other kids learning the rules even if they don't much want to learn them themselves.

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• 70

  out of 100

  Variety

  Under the surface, the movie has a streak of Roald Dahl-style darkness that dilutes the sugar.

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• 70

  out of 100

  Los Angeles TimesGene Seymour

  A spicy little pastry with just the right proportions of flakiness and gooeyness.

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• 70

  out of 100

  The New York TimesStephen Holden

  In the endearing but somewhat scatterbrained British film Nanny McPhee, Emma Thompson creates an indelible character reminiscent of Mary Poppins as conceived by the author P. L. Travers and the illustrator Mary Shepard.

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• 60

  out of 100

  The Hollywood ReporterRay Bennett

  Colorful, noisy and brimming with special effects, the picture may please young audiences simply looking for loud action, but its corny storyline and brittle lack of warmth may discourage both parents and children.

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• 50

  out of 100

  Entertainment WeeklyOwen Gleiberman

  One of those raucous, hyperactive kiddie flicks that knocks you upside the head from its opening frame.

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• 50

  out of 100

  Wall Street JournalJoe Morgenstern

  Oversweetened or not, "Mary Poppins" remains a deservedly beloved work of art. Nanny McPhee is an overproduced industrial enterprise.

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