037 Bedknobs & Broomsticks: Disney’s Backup Plan Movie

This week, we dust off a lesser-known Disney classic:
 ✨ Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971) 

Set during WWII, this whimsical (and slightly chaotic) fantasy follows three evacuated London children, an apprentice witch learning magic by correspondence course, and a con-man magician who accidentally becomes part of the British war effort. 

Yes. Really. 

We discuss: 

• The film’s deep connections to Mary Poppins
• Why Disney originally bought the rights as a backup plan
• Sherman Brothers songs (including one originally written for Mary Poppins!)
• The blend of live-action and animation
• That animated soccer match 👀
• Angela Lansbury’s performance as Miss Price
• Whether this movie actually holds up today
• And of course… the ongoing Roddy McDowall problem

Starring:
 

• Angela Lansbury
• David Tomlinson
• Roddy McDowall

We also dive into:
 

• The post-Walt Disney era slump
• The 25th anniversary restoration
• Oscar nominations and that surprise special effects win
• And the big question: Would this survive the Brooke Test™?

Is it magical?
 Is it campy?
 Is it aggressively 1971?
 
You decide.
 
🎧 Listen now and let us know: Did Bedknobs and Broomsticks hold up for you?