Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris* by Paul Gallico

 

Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris* by Paul Gallico

**Introduction**  

Paul Gallico’s 1958 novella *Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris* is a delightful and heartwarming story about Ada Harris, a widowed cleaning lady in London who dreams of owning a Dior dress. It's a tale of resilience, kindness, and the pursuit of beauty in life’s simplest moments. The book is a love letter to determination and the transformative power of dreams.  

**Plot Summary**  

*Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris* is set in post-World War II London, where Mrs. Harris works as a cleaning lady for affluent clients. She leads a modest life, finding joy in simple pleasures. One day, while cleaning for a wealthy client, Lady Dant, she stumbles upon a stunning Dior dress in the wardrobe. The exquisite beauty of the garment captivates her and sparks an unlikely dream: to own her own Dior gown.  

Despite her meager income, Mrs. Harris is determined to make her dream a reality. She starts saving every penny, sacrificing small luxuries and taking on extra work. Her efforts are fueled by an unwavering optimism that contrasts with the skepticism of her friends and employers.  

After years of scrimping and saving, Mrs. Harris finally amasses enough money to travel to Paris and buy her dream dress. Her journey is filled with challenges and comedic moments as she navigates the language barrier, cultural differences, and the intimidating world of haute couture.  

Upon arriving at the House of Dior, Mrs. Harris initially encounters resistance from the staff, who are dismissive of her humble background. However, her sincerity and charm eventually win them over. She befriends several people during her visit, including André, a Dior accountant who is unhappy with his life, and Natasha, a beautiful model who feels trapped in her career.  

Mrs. Harris’s influence extends beyond her quest for the dress. Her kindness and wisdom inspire those she meets to reconsider their own lives and values. In the end, she purchases a stunning gown but is faced with a dilemma: should she keep it or use it to help others?  

**Themes**  

1. **Dreams and Aspirations**: At its heart, the story is about pursuing one’s dreams, no matter how improbable they seem. Mrs. Harris’s determination to own a Dior dress is both touching and inspiring, showing that ambition can transcend social and economic barriers.  

   

2. **Kindness and Human Connection**: The book celebrates the power of kindness and the impact one person can have on others. Mrs. Harris changes the lives of those she meets, not through wealth or influence but through her genuine compassion and optimism.  

3. **Class and Society**: The novella subtly critiques social hierarchies and explores the disparities between the working class and the wealthy. Mrs. Harris’s journey to Paris underscores her resilience in the face of systemic barriers.  

4. **Beauty and Art**: The Dior dress symbolizes more than luxury; it represents the beauty and artistry that enrich life, even for those who can't usually afford it.  

**Characters**  

1. **Mrs. Ada Harris**: The protagonist, a hardworking and kind-hearted cleaning lady whose determination drives the story.  

2. **Lady Dant**: A wealthy employer who unwittingly inspires Mrs. Harris’s dream.  

3. **André Fauvel**: A Dior accountant, disillusioned with his life, who finds hope and courage through Mrs. Harris.  

4. **Natasha**: A Dior model who feels trapped by her beauty and profession, but finds inspiration in Mrs. Harris’s simplicity and sincerity.  

**Style and Tone**  

Gallico’s writing is charming, light, and accessible, with a warm and whimsical tone. He uses humor and vivid descriptions to bring Mrs. Harris’s world to life. The contrast between the grayness of London and the vibrant elegance of Paris highlights the transformative power of beauty and art.  

**Reception and Legacy**  

*Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris* was well-received for its uplifting and heartwarming story. It has since become a beloved classic, inspiring adaptations and sequels. The novella’s universal themes continue to resonate with readers, making it a timeless tale.  

TV Movie with Angela Lansbury

**Introduction**  

The 1992 TV movie adaptation of *Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris* stars the legendary Angela Lansbury in the titular role. Directed by Anthony Shaw, the film captures the charm of Paul Gallico’s novella while adding its own cinematic flourishes. Lansbury’s portrayal of Mrs. Harris is a standout performance, bringing warmth, wit, and depth to the character.  

**Plot Overview**  

The film stays largely faithful to the source material, following Mrs. Harris’s journey from London to Paris in pursuit of her dream Dior dress. The story begins with Mrs. Harris working tirelessly as a cleaning lady, her days filled with scrubbing and tidying for wealthy clients. Her discovery of Lady Dant’s Dior dress sparks the dream that propels the plot.  

Unlike the novella, the film delves deeper into Mrs. Harris’s background, providing glimpses of her life before her husband’s death. These flashbacks add emotional weight, highlighting the sacrifices and resilience that define her character.  

The Paris segment of the movie is a visual delight, showcasing the opulence of the Dior fashion house. The filmmakers use this setting to contrast Mrs. Harris’s humble origins with the grandeur of high fashion. Lansbury’s performance shines as Mrs. Harris navigates this unfamiliar world with determination and charm.  

The supporting characters, including André and Natasha, are well-developed in the film, with their subplots intertwined seamlessly with Mrs. Harris’s story. The movie emphasizes the transformative impact Mrs. Harris has on their lives, mirroring the novella’s themes of kindness and human connection.  

**Angela Lansbury’s Performance**  

Angela Lansbury’s portrayal of Mrs. Harris is widely regarded as the highlight of the film. She captures the character’s warmth, humor, and resilience, making her journey deeply relatable. Lansbury’s nuanced performance brings out the emotional depth of the story, from the quiet determination of saving for the dress to the joy and wonder of her Parisian adventure.  

**Themes and Adaptation Choices**  

1. **Fidelity to the Source Material**: The TV movie remains true to the novella’s themes and overall narrative, preserving the heartwarming tone and uplifting message.  

2. **Expanded Emotional Depth**: The film adds layers to Mrs. Harris’s character by exploring her past and her emotional journey. These additions enhance the story without detracting from its charm.  

3. **Visual Storytelling**: The film uses the visual medium to its advantage, bringing the world of Dior to life with stunning costumes and set design. The contrast between London’s muted tones and Paris’s vibrant elegance underscores the transformative power of beauty and art.  

**Cultural Context and Reception**  

The movie premiered during a time when feel-good, character-driven stories were popular on television. Lansbury’s fame from *Murder, She Wrote* likely drew viewers, and her performance was praised for its warmth and authenticity. Critics appreciated the movie’s faithful adaptation of the novella and its ability to capture the essence of Gallico’s story.  

**Legacy**  

The TV movie remains a beloved adaptation, cherished for Angela Lansbury’s performance and its faithful portrayal of the novella’s themes. It paved the way for future adaptations, including the recent 2022 film starring Lesley Manville.