What a great little film - albeit more of a woman's picture, but still it has all the elements that are missing in so many films today. Mrs. Harris is a real person - she has optimism; she's older; she has a brain and knows how to use it AND she has heart and soul. She has a dream to own haute couture and goes about making that dream happen. Along the way she meets, befriends and wins over a variety of characters. This is like a kinder, gentler version of THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA. The writing is kind and sweet - nothing that is far out; nothing that would contain any great surprises - its just a sweet little story. Leslie Manville is perfect as Mrs. Harris - you wouldn't mind if she were your mother or grandmother and for all her good-heartedness, you want her to be rewarded. You're not bowled over with $100MM worth of special effects - this is just something to sit back, relax and enjoy. That's why it only made $31MM instead of $500MM. Bravo to Focus pictures.
169 Reviews
Nice charming film about a working-class hero
chong_an23 July 2022
This is a well-directed and well-acted film about an English charwoman who becomes besotted with a Dior dress, and eventually manages to cobble up the funds to go to the House of Dior in Paris to buy one. But a Dior dress is not something she can buy off-the-rack, and so Mrs Harris has time for side adventures. The film is well-directed and well-acted, and allegedly the re-creations of Dior are authentic.
This is a European production, not Hollywood. Everyone speaks their own language, and at one point one French character admonishes another to speak in English (in the presence of Mrs Harris). At some points, I wished for full closed-captioning rather than just subtitles, since sometimes Mrs Harris slipped into a difficult-to-understand accent. Also, there were background plot points that just flashed by, so I needed an explanation from a companion.
Decades ago I had read the novel, and so was eager to see the film. I don't remember details, but the bones of the story was there, even though the ending was tweaked. A recommended film for those who wish to avoid the summer blockbusters.
This is a European production, not Hollywood. Everyone speaks their own language, and at one point one French character admonishes another to speak in English (in the presence of Mrs Harris). At some points, I wished for full closed-captioning rather than just subtitles, since sometimes Mrs Harris slipped into a difficult-to-understand accent. Also, there were background plot points that just flashed by, so I needed an explanation from a companion.
Decades ago I had read the novel, and so was eager to see the film. I don't remember details, but the bones of the story was there, even though the ending was tweaked. A recommended film for those who wish to avoid the summer blockbusters.
A Harmless Treat
jisforjoe17 July 2022
If you come in expecting to be told a fairytale, you will not be disappointed. It is a well-executed fairytale meant to teach morals as opposed to be realistic. It's 'Cinderella' meets 'The Devil Wears Prada' meets 'Pretty Woman' with a dash of 'The Phantom of the Open'.
Above all: this film is a chocolate chip cookie. We all know what goes into a chocolate chip cookie and we all recognize how one should taste. Despite the familiarity, a chocolate chip cookie done well remains a treat.
Above all: this film is a chocolate chip cookie. We all know what goes into a chocolate chip cookie and we all recognize how one should taste. Despite the familiarity, a chocolate chip cookie done well remains a treat.
Pleasant Afternoon out of the Heat
jasogle26 July 2022
Well done film.............
owenpont-7080319 July 2022
This film was not on my radar at all. But I watched it. And loved it. I thought the acting was on point. The directing was beautifully done, the movie reminded me of a film from the 50s or 60s. The writing was well done and pretty much perfect. The film had a nice feel to it making it easily rewatchable. Overall its definitely a under the radar film, but it should be watched. Its highly enjoyable for the whole family and is a very sweet film.
A most charming movie....
bostonct15 July 2022
This is one of the most charming movies I've ever seen. Lesley Manville's execution of her role of someone that is optimistic, attentive, considerate, and hopeful, suffers a few setbacks, yet still have the strength to carry on and stand up when it matters the most is Oscar worthy. A lot of substance with this actor. She is also surrounded by a supporting cast with is rich in talent, experience and timing. OK, it has Hollywood ending written all over the place but it is such a fun movie. And this is coming from someone that favors insane fantasies, comedies galore, sci-fi and everything else not of this world.
Have you ever been smothered by charm and authenticity?
MysteryInc_9418 July 2022
Mrs. Harris is maybe not the hero we deserve, but the one we need. Everywhere she goes, her kindness spreads like an infectious disease; I'm pretty sure a bit spilled out of the screen and got some of us in the audience. She handles life with such an authenticity, It's marvelous, refreshing.
There's nothing too unexpected about this film, but certainly not a waste of time. The world needs to go see Mrs Harris!
There's nothing too unexpected about this film, but certainly not a waste of time. The world needs to go see Mrs Harris!
Feel good movie
jacksonmeddows23 July 2022
An eye-catching & feel-good movie.
Anurag-Shetty8 November 2022
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is based on the novel of the same name by Paul Gallico. It tells the story of Ada Harris(Lesley Manville). Ada Harris is a house help who is a widow. Mrs. Harris is mesmerized by a haute couture Christian Dior dress & decides that she must buy one & travels to Paris.
Mrs. Harris to Paris is an amazing film. Director Anthony Fabian has given us a movie that's fun, inspiring & emotional in all the right places. The cinematography by Felix Wiedemann captures both Paris & London in all their splendor. Lesley Manville is spectacular as Ada Harris. Manville anchors the film with her heartwarming performance. Isabelle Huppert is fantastic as Claudine Colbert. Huppert's uppity character is the perfect foil to Lesley Manville's kind protagonist. Lambert Wilson is great as Marquis de Chassagne. Alba Baptista is outstanding as Natasha. Lucas Bravo is excellent as Andre Fauvel. Ellen Thomas, Rose Williams & Jason Isaacs are superb as Violet Butterfield, Pamela Penrose & Archie, respectively. The supporting cast is awesome. Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is a must watch for people of all ages. Go & have your spirits lifted!
Mrs. Harris to Paris is an amazing film. Director Anthony Fabian has given us a movie that's fun, inspiring & emotional in all the right places. The cinematography by Felix Wiedemann captures both Paris & London in all their splendor. Lesley Manville is spectacular as Ada Harris. Manville anchors the film with her heartwarming performance. Isabelle Huppert is fantastic as Claudine Colbert. Huppert's uppity character is the perfect foil to Lesley Manville's kind protagonist. Lambert Wilson is great as Marquis de Chassagne. Alba Baptista is outstanding as Natasha. Lucas Bravo is excellent as Andre Fauvel. Ellen Thomas, Rose Williams & Jason Isaacs are superb as Violet Butterfield, Pamela Penrose & Archie, respectively. The supporting cast is awesome. Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is a must watch for people of all ages. Go & have your spirits lifted!
Charming movie
trulliever31 July 2022
I can't compare it to the original as I have not seen it. But this version, is charming and heartfelt.
For a very "clean" type of movie, it was refreshing to be honest.
The movie is not meant to be dissected as it's true to the era it's based on.
For a very "clean" type of movie, it was refreshing to be honest.
The movie is not meant to be dissected as it's true to the era it's based on.
Sweet but...
MrsOscar6 August 2022
To begin, it's beautifully filmed with lovely locations, fabulous costumes and feels authentic..except the characters. It'd be impossible to meet this many helpful, charming, accommodating French people in one year, never mind a single week. From offers of accommodation, escort, lift, to entry into the atelier, it's literally unbelievable! So suspend your belief system and enjoy the lovely clothes and the possibility that it dreams do come true and pass almost two hours of gentle entertainment. Or wait for it to be on Netflix and you can fast forward the filler bits.
A warm, charming, nostalgic & safe little cuppa tea of a movie
danieljfarthing7 August 2022
In "Mrs Harris Goes To Paris" (remaking 1992's "Mrs 'Arris Goes To Paris") Lesley Manville (perfectly cast) is a 1950's middle-aged house-cleaner who after some ups & downs dreams of owning an houte couture Dior dress, so leaves her London pals (inc Ellen Thomas & Jason Isaacs) and clients (inc Rose Williams & Anna Chancellor) for Paris and the likes of Isabelle Huppert, Lucas Bravo, Alba Baptista (stunning) & Lambert Wilson - where luck & emotions fluctuate but salt o' the earth kindness shines through. Co-writer (with a team) & director Anthony Fabian plays it safe, cosy & warm to deliver a charming & nostalgic cuppa tea of a dramedy.
Wholesome and beautiful.
chris_rowe-881-1688202 October 2022
I don't understand the negative reviews, it's completely obvious the plot and style of this film are going to be a certain way, it'll flow, maybe a few twists but I genuinely am astounded what some people were expecting of a film that delivers exactly what it said it was.
I'm a 35 year old male and definitely not the target demo but I love it, it was feel good, amusing, wholesome film that only Britain can seem to do. It was sweet, charming and made you feel warm. It dealt with the class difference well and it was nice to see French people portrayed as nice for a change.
The chemistry was great, I loved everything except one thing, it felt like 15 minutes was cut from the film, when she leaves Paris to come home, I felt that was rushed, I'd have liked to see the goodbyes and how people had settled to the new regime. It was briefly covered later but I thought that segment felt really rushed when the rest of the film built at a slower pace.
It's never really a criticism to want more of a film though. The lead was awesome, so natural, believable and likeable, the casting was genuinely great! I didn't recognise many. Bits are laugh out loud but it's more of a film to warm your heart. So if you feel a bit low, this is a great watch.
I'm a 35 year old male and definitely not the target demo but I love it, it was feel good, amusing, wholesome film that only Britain can seem to do. It was sweet, charming and made you feel warm. It dealt with the class difference well and it was nice to see French people portrayed as nice for a change.
The chemistry was great, I loved everything except one thing, it felt like 15 minutes was cut from the film, when she leaves Paris to come home, I felt that was rushed, I'd have liked to see the goodbyes and how people had settled to the new regime. It was briefly covered later but I thought that segment felt really rushed when the rest of the film built at a slower pace.
It's never really a criticism to want more of a film though. The lead was awesome, so natural, believable and likeable, the casting was genuinely great! I didn't recognise many. Bits are laugh out loud but it's more of a film to warm your heart. So if you feel a bit low, this is a great watch.
a fun movie for a rainy afternoon
vanlorryjf7 October 2022
Just watched this at my local cinema on a rainy, October afternoon. Got the ice cream and sat down. I loved every minute of this movie and didn't want it to end. The time flew by.
Leslie Manville as the lead is just wonderful, she pulls you in in a believable, nice and relatable manner...she is an impressive actor who oozes style, class and panache...I just adored her in this. The supporting cast compliment in a seam free style and come across as a professional crew who really enjoyed being a part of this fun film. It's confident and light and proud of itself whilst recognising that the audience are there to be entertained and they ain't stupid. Really reccomended for a wet afternoon.
Leslie Manville as the lead is just wonderful, she pulls you in in a believable, nice and relatable manner...she is an impressive actor who oozes style, class and panache...I just adored her in this. The supporting cast compliment in a seam free style and come across as a professional crew who really enjoyed being a part of this fun film. It's confident and light and proud of itself whilst recognising that the audience are there to be entertained and they ain't stupid. Really reccomended for a wet afternoon.
Lady goes to Paris to buy a Dior dress for herself
madanmarwah21 February 2023
Some movies are plainly adorable and become a delightful watch simply because the storyline is straightforward and it appeals to all age groups. This movie set in 1957 Paris is a mix of fairy tale romance and fun filled fulfillment of dreams. Ada Harris works a cleaner woman in upper class homes in London leading a mundane life but she is optimistic all the time ( She keeps saying " It's my lucky day today" ). She sees a very attractive evening gown of Christian Dior, Paris costing 500 pounds in the home of one of her mistresses and is besotted by it. On an impulse she decides to procure one for herself even if it means travelling to Paris to make a purchase. She manages to a gather funds through various means, lands up in Paris but things are not so smooth for her. Since the setting is Paris, can romance be far behind?
A highlight of the movie is the admirable acting of talented Lesley Manville who goes through the gamut of emotions in a light hearted and endearing way. The infectious cheerful demeanour and positive attitude she projects is worth watching. Director Anthony Fabian has made an enchanting , engaging and entertaining movie from an old fashioned tale. It doesn't drag anytime and one can sit through it with interest. One attractive sequence is about models parading in glamorous, exquisite gowns in the premises of Christian Dior, Paris. It is shot and presented in style. The cinematography is attractive specially in the outdoors. Costume design is rightly given prominence and results are amazing no doubt. One is reminded of " Phantom thread" and " The devil wears Prada". One surprising feature is that Paris streets are shown dirty with overflowing dustbins and garbage everywhere. This is unthinkable for a dream city. It is explained away in the movie as strike by the cleaning workers.
A highlight of the movie is the admirable acting of talented Lesley Manville who goes through the gamut of emotions in a light hearted and endearing way. The infectious cheerful demeanour and positive attitude she projects is worth watching. Director Anthony Fabian has made an enchanting , engaging and entertaining movie from an old fashioned tale. It doesn't drag anytime and one can sit through it with interest. One attractive sequence is about models parading in glamorous, exquisite gowns in the premises of Christian Dior, Paris. It is shot and presented in style. The cinematography is attractive specially in the outdoors. Costume design is rightly given prominence and results are amazing no doubt. One is reminded of " Phantom thread" and " The devil wears Prada". One surprising feature is that Paris streets are shown dirty with overflowing dustbins and garbage everywhere. This is unthinkable for a dream city. It is explained away in the movie as strike by the cleaning workers.
I love everything about how this film looks from the scenery, to the actors, the music, the script -- everything fits the storyline so perfectly.
rannynm12 July 2022
I enjoyed Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris and so will people who stand up for what they believe. Ada Harris is an admirable character that serves as a positive role model.
The storyline follows Ada Harris (Lesley Manville), a 1950s widowed housekeeper. After falling in love with a Dior dress, Mrs. Harris decides she must have one of them and takes off on a journey to Paris, where she discovers what she truly needs in life.
I love everything about how this film looks from the scenery, to the actors, the music, the script -- everything fits the storyline so perfectly. All the actors are fabulous; every prop is in the exact right place; there is just so much hard work put into this film and it really shows. One of the most outstanding contributions to the movie is from the writers. The script is so perfect. Mrs. Harris' story sticks out to me because, while all of the other characters are young and have years to figure out what's important to them, Mrs. Harris is already half way through her life, and still isn't truly happy. Alba Baptista who plays Natasha did an amazing job! I loved her performance so much! My favorite scene is the Dior fashion show. Everything about that scene is terrific; the dresses are beautiful, the actresses playing the models made me feel as if I was in the Dior showroom.
The message of Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is to never give up. Mrs. Harris is determined to help the workers at Dior when she helps them strike. She is determined to buy the dress, and best of all, she never gives up.
I give Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It releases in theatres on July 15, 2022. By Kendall B., KIDS FIRST!
The storyline follows Ada Harris (Lesley Manville), a 1950s widowed housekeeper. After falling in love with a Dior dress, Mrs. Harris decides she must have one of them and takes off on a journey to Paris, where she discovers what she truly needs in life.
I love everything about how this film looks from the scenery, to the actors, the music, the script -- everything fits the storyline so perfectly. All the actors are fabulous; every prop is in the exact right place; there is just so much hard work put into this film and it really shows. One of the most outstanding contributions to the movie is from the writers. The script is so perfect. Mrs. Harris' story sticks out to me because, while all of the other characters are young and have years to figure out what's important to them, Mrs. Harris is already half way through her life, and still isn't truly happy. Alba Baptista who plays Natasha did an amazing job! I loved her performance so much! My favorite scene is the Dior fashion show. Everything about that scene is terrific; the dresses are beautiful, the actresses playing the models made me feel as if I was in the Dior showroom.
The message of Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is to never give up. Mrs. Harris is determined to help the workers at Dior when she helps them strike. She is determined to buy the dress, and best of all, she never gives up.
I give Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18 plus adults. It releases in theatres on July 15, 2022. By Kendall B., KIDS FIRST!
Offers many pleasures
wheatley-202305 October 2022
This is an entertaining film, offering many pleasures. The book by Paul Gallico is itself charming and the film successfully retains that quality, most obviously because Leslie Manville inhabits her character with sincerity. Before you know it you have forgiven even the most unlikely plot contrivances and been willingly carried along for the ride.
All of which might justify a higher score than I have awarded.
However, I reserve 8s for a film I would strongly recommend and this does not quite achieve that status. The story is too slight - the whole concept of an haute-couture dress being the dream of a bereaved working-class woman passes me by. And the transformation of Mrs Harris is insufficiently powered to engage my emotions to any great extent.
But I did finish watching this with a smile on my face and if that is enough for you then go and watch it.
All of which might justify a higher score than I have awarded.
However, I reserve 8s for a film I would strongly recommend and this does not quite achieve that status. The story is too slight - the whole concept of an haute-couture dress being the dream of a bereaved working-class woman passes me by. And the transformation of Mrs Harris is insufficiently powered to engage my emotions to any great extent.
But I did finish watching this with a smile on my face and if that is enough for you then go and watch it.
Dreams and fairytales.
Sleepin_Dragon16 May 2023
When Ada Harris gets news that her husband is missing, Ada sets her sights on owning a Dior dress, she scrimps and saves, working her fingers to the bone, and when she arrives in Paris, she discovers that not everyone is so warm to her dream.
I feared it would be a pale comparison to the original adaptation with Angela Lansbury, my genuine view, is that they surpassed it, this movie is quite genuinely captivating. I was not expecting it to be quite this good.
A rags to haute couture story, a film for the entire family to enjoy, this is a film that young and old can enjoy.
It's a fairytale with a twist, it is a real time Disney movie, with Ada fighting the odds to reach her dream, that dream of course to own a piece of legendary haute couture, a Dior dress.
The story is a little different to what I had expected, Ada is given quite a lot of backstory, and she is given a huge depth by the incredible Lesley Manville.
Gloriously acted, a terrific cast, everyone plays their part, Alba Baptista is captivating as Natasha, not only is she genuinely beautiful, classically beautiful, but she is a wonderful actress, she makes the character so sincere.
Sublime.
10/10.
I feared it would be a pale comparison to the original adaptation with Angela Lansbury, my genuine view, is that they surpassed it, this movie is quite genuinely captivating. I was not expecting it to be quite this good.
A rags to haute couture story, a film for the entire family to enjoy, this is a film that young and old can enjoy.
It's a fairytale with a twist, it is a real time Disney movie, with Ada fighting the odds to reach her dream, that dream of course to own a piece of legendary haute couture, a Dior dress.
The story is a little different to what I had expected, Ada is given quite a lot of backstory, and she is given a huge depth by the incredible Lesley Manville.
Gloriously acted, a terrific cast, everyone plays their part, Alba Baptista is captivating as Natasha, not only is she genuinely beautiful, classically beautiful, but she is a wonderful actress, she makes the character so sincere.
Sublime.
10/10.
Loved it
k-586124 August 2022
This is a charmingly, innocent movie, much as Britiain was in the 50's, and doesn't exist in the Tory Britian if today.
Lesley Manville plays it to perfection, every dropped 'aitch' is within her character. I am probably a little biased towards Ms Manville, as I fell in love with her when I was 13 and she was in the kids series 'A Bunch of Fives'.
It is a lovely film, an excellent cast and the fantastic set designs.
Up The Workers.
Lesley Manville plays it to perfection, every dropped 'aitch' is within her character. I am probably a little biased towards Ms Manville, as I fell in love with her when I was 13 and she was in the kids series 'A Bunch of Fives'.
It is a lovely film, an excellent cast and the fantastic set designs.
Up The Workers.
Woke casting spoils the authenticity of the period.
theminsh15 August 2022
At this time there was one Black model in the whole of Europe. A movie subject in it's self. But here every other person is a minority. This film perpetrates the lie that these communities were fully integrated with out a hint of racism. Just plain deceitful.
Soundtrack from Hell
justintannerpw115 July 2022
Another example of a perfectly lovely movie that is utterly destroyed by the non stop chattering of its busy, busy musical soundtrack. There are about five minutes of film where the chugging, scampering and whining music stops and the relief is overwhelming. Otherwise not a moment goes by where we aren't being told exactly how to feel from second to second. Loudly. I wanted to pull my ears off my head.
Great heartwarming fun
masonsaul4 October 2022
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris frustratingly ends rather abruptly but that doesn't stop it from being a great movie that's endlessly heartwarming and joy to watch whilst celebrating the regular people whose necessary contributions often go overlooked.
Leslie Manville gives a note perfect lead performance, imbuing Mrs. Harris with so much warmth and successful humour that her struggles will break your heart and make her triumphs all the more satisfying. The supporting cast are all good at making their generic characters likeable and layered.
Anthony Fabian's direction is really good, the film is competently shot overall with some particularly good dream like moments. The music by Rael Jones is great, suitably whimsical and wholesome which really works.
Leslie Manville gives a note perfect lead performance, imbuing Mrs. Harris with so much warmth and successful humour that her struggles will break your heart and make her triumphs all the more satisfying. The supporting cast are all good at making their generic characters likeable and layered.
Anthony Fabian's direction is really good, the film is competently shot overall with some particularly good dream like moments. The music by Rael Jones is great, suitably whimsical and wholesome which really works.
Masterclass in acting from Lesley as always.
Birminghamukengland13 October 2022
I've always sought out films with Lesley in, as she is such a fine actor. I loved her playing very dramatic parts in Mike Leigh's films and of course the brilliant Mum.
This is a beautiful film. Very well acted by all, superb story telling and well directed.
It pulls you in and keeps you engaged for the whole time.
The scenery is interesting and I enjoyed the alternation between countries.
Someone said that this did not need to be on the cinema but I disagree. It's wonderful to totally disconnect and immerse oneself in an excellent film with my phone or someone knocking at the door.
I highly recommend this to all.
This is a beautiful film. Very well acted by all, superb story telling and well directed.
It pulls you in and keeps you engaged for the whole time.
The scenery is interesting and I enjoyed the alternation between countries.
Someone said that this did not need to be on the cinema but I disagree. It's wonderful to totally disconnect and immerse oneself in an excellent film with my phone or someone knocking at the door.
I highly recommend this to all.
A fairytale approach ultimately leads to slow-witted and predictable character decisions
alexasavova18 August 2022
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is a charming movie which beautifully captures the Parisian scenery and showcases the magic of French fashion. The movie tells an unusual story in an unusual manner: instead of trying too hard to make the fortunate incidents seem plausible, it embraces their peculiarity. However, diving into the magical atmosphere, the movie suffers some poor writing choices detaching the characters from reality by overly simplifying their arcs and making use of some very cliché tropes (the mean character, the love interest, the perfect noble character, etc.). If you look for a family (or a children's) movie after a heavy-load workday, you won't be disappointed. However, I wouldn't recommend it if you expect to see something original, witty or funny, since the movie falls short of these expectations.
Whimsical loveliness
michael-kerrigan-526-1249746 November 2022
So..... (horrible Americanism), but so, my wife was given the choice between 3 films at the cinema. 1 - Decision to leave, a Korean murder mystery noir from the acclaimed director of Oldboy. 2 - Triangle of Sadness, the palm d'or winning social satire about the super rich on a cruise ship that goes terribly wrong for them. 3 - Mrs Harris goes to Paris, a whimsical film about a London born and bred working class cleaner (are there any other types of cleaners?) who dreams of buying a D'ior dress in 1950s Paris, hence the title. Guess which my wife chose??? Yes, number 3. Well, apart from saying "I do" of course, it was the best decision she has ever made. I LOVED it! Complete fluffy nonsense with not a hint of bleakness. Ken Loach this was not, and to be fair, all the better for it. It was a tribute to human kindness and an absolute joy from start to finish. I even cried when the ever so obvious occurrence occurred. Reminded me of The Last Bus - also starring a British icon Timothy Spall (Mrs Harris is played by the brilliant Lesley Manville). Watch it - and you'll be a better person for it! 8 out of ten.
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