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Emma Thompson returns as the nanny you need in the suitably titled, Nanny McPhee Returns. This time it is to help a frazzled mother (Maggie Gyllenhaal) whose husband is off to war. The mom not only has three rambunctious kids of her own but also a farm that is falling apart, a conniving brother-in-law and two uppity young house guests. It is up to Nanny McPhee to teach the children five vital lessons that will save more than just the farm. With her magical walking stick and dedication to learning she makes quick work of the chaos. 

This second installment of the popular family story has the same elements that made the original so endearing and heartwarming. The McPhee character is a perfect onscreen persona that Thompson breathes life into. Her quiet demeanor and sly wit make her almost a female yoda in a black dress. The importance of faith and unity in the family dynamic is a current theme in both films. The foundation of trust and caring for one another is very apparent. There is a perfect blend of site gags, humor and emotion. 

If there is one lesson I learn in the Nanny McPhee movies it is that our own beauty lies in helping others. Nanny always shows up hideous looking with warts and crazy teeth and eyebrows that threaten to take over her entire face. But with each lesson learned she regains her outside appearance as the children grow. She benefits from their knowledge as much as they do. There is an inner joy that comes in helping others obtain a better life. And that joy radiates outwardly.  

This version does seem even more geared for younger viewers than the first. Though still enjoyable for all ages there are scenes in this one that are almost cartoonish. The use of animals and slapstick antics are sure to double over your 10 and under ticket holders with laughter more so than the rest of the family. Less time is spent on the 5 lessons than with the story arc of saving the family farm but still the points are made. The cast is top notch and give their all for a successful project. 

Nanny McPhee Returns is rated PG for rude humor, some language and mild thematic elements. It follows the same content mold as the first and you would be hard pressed to find anything objectionable in this one. The rude humor involves little more than a bird who loves to belch loudly and a few references to animal poop. There are elements of a family struggling with a father gone off to war and kids who live abandoned emotional lives but these are important to the healing message of the story. I give it a strong 4 out of 5 pig scratchers. Maybe not as well rounded for the entire family as the first film but still one that I think parents and kids alike will watch many times over both in the theater and long after.

Matt Mungle 

Review copyright 2010 Mungleshow Productions. Used by Permission.