Paul Gallico's adored novel about a Dior-obsessed cleaning lady comes to the big screen, and nothing has been sweeter.

 

It's 1950s London and a widowed cleaning lady discovers the grace and glamour of Dior in a client's wardrobe. She falls in love and makes it her mission to scrimp and save every penny until she can get to Paris for one of her own. The House of Dior is about to welcome a very unique guest!

 

Ada Harris (Lesley Manville) knows a beautiful thing when she sees it. She cleans beautiful homes for beautiful people, who also happen to own beautiful things. She is pure, loving, determined and selfless - all while forging a life alone in the world after losing her husband during the war.

 

Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris may have Lesley Manville as the jewel to its crown, but the cohort of supporting actors gives the film that comforting Mary Poppins feel from the opening frame. Jason Isaacs as Archie, Lucas Bravo as Andre and Alba Baptista as Natasha all create that traditional fairytale feel, with a very non-traditional princess lighting up the screen.

 

The story wraps up unrequited love and friendship, along with loss and classism in the kind of film you can comfortably watch with friends and parents alike. 

 

Combining London charm, and Parisienne style, the setting is just like a storybook. The fish-out-of-water storyline is always a winner, especially with a triumph like Manville. And just when you thought every story needed a villain, Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris presents you with a selection of lovable counterparts, and all you can do is enjoy the ride.

 

Like a warm cuppa, a welcome hug, a springtime stroll or cold night by the fire - Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris is homely cosiness all wrapped up in a firm film favourite of 2022.