FILM REVIEW | Saving Mr. Banks

Pamela L. Traverse (Emma Thompson) has fought a long and hard battle with Walt Disney (Tom Hanks) when it comes the selling the rights to her beloved book, Mary Poppins. Now that 20-year-long battle has come to a standstill, Mrs Travers finds herself at Walt Disney Studious attempting to hold on to the one piece of her old life left.

The Story

A combination of past and present, we follow the parallel stories of Ginty (Annie Rose Buckley) and P. L. Travers as they unfold the story within the story of a Disney classic. The story is bound beautifully by musical classics and witty dialogue that portray the struggle between staying true to the story, as well as retaining the Disney magic.

What I love about this film is it’s realistic and packed with intrigue, enthusiasm and heart. You get the gist of what it takes to stay true to yourself and the heart of your work – no matter what anyone says or tries to do with it. There’s a balance of struggle and hope that leaves you clinging to every word and action that the characters say and do – and occasionally sing, as they all draw you in. There are moments where you want to side with Walt, but ultimately you understand why your heart stays with Pamela.

When the truth unfolds, you also see the delicate balance between the harsh realities of life right beside the escape that comes with imagination.

The Cast

Emma Thompson – her portrayal of the Australian author was incredibly believable and accurate to that of the recordings that are played at the end of the credits. Her ferocity in staying true to the author’s wishes for her book was incredible. She also carried the delicate balance of a woman who wants things to go her way and a child who only wanted to make her father proud.

Tom Hanks – captures the enthusiasm of Disney, but also carries a gentle portrayal of a man who knows the hardships of life. Hanks made Disney a tangible person, one that many can and will relate to, rather than a just a name on a billboard – he made him human. For that, I say, KUDOS to Hanks!

Colin Farrell – plays the believable Mr Goff – the inspiration for the Mr Banks character in both the book and the film. He captures the struggles of fatherhood and the hardships of working a nine-to-five job beautifully, and delivers a very heart wrenching performance.

Introducing:

Annie Rose Buckley as Ginty – as the young Australian actress hits the screens, I have to say that Buckley’s simplicity and well-rounded performance earns her the right to play this vital role. She has an ease in her acting abilities that leaves you aching for her character throughout the film. She supports Farrell well as she plays Goff’s beloved daughter.

Overall, Saving Mr. Banks is a beautiful film. It’s one that everyone will enjoy and one that will leave you in tears – so bring tissues! It’s a great film to understand the other side of Disney.

Star Rating: ★★★★★

Next: The Book Thief

FILM REVIEW | Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit

Jack Ryan (Chris Pine) was a Marine just serving his country, but when a tragic accident leaves him damaged, he finds himself in the hands of the CIA. With a new opportunity at hand, Ryan finds himself in a sticky situation, one that will determine the world’s economy.

The Story

One word: predictable.

Alright, I’m a little harsh – I know – but let’s face it, when it comes to action films it’s more about how many car chases and gun wounds can they can give the characters. The story in itself was simple: guy serves his country à guy almost dies for his country à guy is given a second shot to serve his country à guy ends up saving his country, and the world – then there’s obviously got to be some Russians in there.

It’s hard to say that action films will go beyond that formula, I mean I know it’s what’s fuelled the action genre’s success, but they could’ve at least thrown in a few more twist and turns in there. Also the execution of introducing characters was slightly sloppy. At times the pace was too fast and you missed vital information for the progression of the story.

On the positive side, there were great action shots, and quirky dialogue, but they weren’t enough to warrant a great deal of care from this reviewer…sorry guys.

The Cast

Chris Pine – the last few years we’ve seen a mixture of things by Pine, action wise, he made Ryan believable. Honestly, I’m not sure if he had much to work with, but I will say the scope of his character was dynamic enough for growth, so I’ll give him one thumbs up for bringing Ryan to life.

Keira Knightly - I was disappointed with Knightly’s performance, particularly her American accent. Its occasional falter wasn’t distracting, but I think her focus was more on sounding American that actually being Cathy. There was no spark between her and Pine at all, that was the most disappointing part of the film. She usually has a great chemistry with her co-stars, but I just didn’t see it here with Pine.

Kenneth Branagh – I have to say that Branagh outshined everyone in this film. I much preferred his character to Pine’s, which says a lot about the film – if you’re on the villain’s side you know there’s something off. He was believable and made you sympathised with Viktor more than Ryan.

Kevin Costner – Bit of a ghost-like guardian in this film, I don’t think Costner’s character really does very much in this film. He is kind of just there – he’s not even the comic relief. I’m not too sure what his role was, but in all honesty he might as well have been Charlie in Charlie’s Angels – a telecom. Again, sorry for the harshness.

Overall the film had no “Wow-factor”. There was nothing new and there was nothing exciting about the film. I mean if you want to prove me wrong, go see it for yourself and comment on this review, otherwise, please save you money for something better. 2014 has more up its sleave, so save up for some of those films!

Star Rating: ★★

Next: Saving Mr. Banks