Becassine: The Wackiest Nanny Ever
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this movie.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Becassine: The Wackiest Nanny Ever is translated from the French book named Becassine: Le tresor Viking. Though the story is fairly simple and easy to follow, some aspects of it seem lost in translation; there's strange pacing, oddly phrased pop songs, and an overall awkwardness that makes the narrative feel jittery and haphazard, often like two different stories in one. There is some mild peril and a bit of cartoonish violence throughout -- a child is kidnapped briefly but reunited with family, and a man is shot but survives -- but the main issue is the overall off-kilter vibe and jumpy plot.
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What's the Story?
After many years apart, nanny Becassine (Muriel Robin) is reunited with her favorite charge, Charlotte. But before they can catch up, an adventure awaits: Charlotte's father has disappeared, and thieves are trailing him. Can Becassine protect Charlotte and keep her safe, or will her tendency to make big messes only make things worse?
Is It Any Good?
It seems like a good story in its original form -- a whimsical nanny full of mayhem and silliness takes her charge on wild adventures around Paris -- but something is off about this translation. It often feels like two separate stories: one of a nanny who loves the child she cares for and another involving a sinister jewel heist involving thieves, underground caves, and ancient treasures. The plots jump around, and, due to random segues and strange translations, never quite feel like they come together. Plus, the nanny's excessive head-in-the-clouds antics and very last-minute surprise competency bring into serious question why this family would even continue to employ her. Kids may love the nonsensical, fantastical silliness, but, for parents, this one may be a little too out there to enjoy.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Becassine. What makes her so peculiar? Does she seem like a good nanny? Why, or why not?
Do you ever make a big mess that you have to clean up? What do you do when you make a big mess?
Do you know anyone who is as silly and klutzy as Becassine? Why is she always getting into trouble?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming: December 12, 2001
- Cast: Muriel Robin
- Director: Philippe Vidal
- Studio: Studio Canal
- Genre: Family and Kids
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Adventures, Friendship, Music and Sing-Along, Wild Animals
- Run time: 85 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 26, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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Mary Poppins
World's coolest nanny celebrates family and fun.
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The Sound of Music
Outstanding family film features glorious music.
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Nanny McPhee
Charming adaptation of kids' books; some potty humor.
For kids who love fantasy
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