Tuesday, January 21, 2014

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





No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.