Saving Mr. Banks Review

By: Nick

Note: This is going to be as spoiler free as possible.

As you are very likely aware, Saving Mr. Banks is the story of how Walt Disney obtained the rights to make Mary Poppins from author P. L. Travers. The movie frequently transitions from these negotiations to Ms. Travers childhood.

I've been avoiding reading about it, because I didn't want to go into the theater with any preconception beyond the brief synopsis I shared above, which has been difficult, as every Disney magazine I receive has contained some information about the film, including the entire issue of D23 Magazine that came in the mail a week ago.

My wife and I have been looking forward to seeing this film since first seeing the preview, and we went last night.

We both really enjoyed it. It is beautifully shot, the acting is superb, and there are many bits of dialogue and visual treats that absolutely invite multiple viewings for Disney fans. I have every intention of seeing it again.

But, and this sentiment was shared by the family in front of me who brought along their young daughter, it is much more serious than we were expecting. 
In fact, depending on how personal some of the themes of the film are to an individual, it can be very emotional indeed.
This isn't a bad thing, necessarily, but it is certainly not light hearted pre-holiday fare.
There are some very funny, and extremely sweet moments, but, tonally, this is a very heavy, deep film.
For me, it was hard to watch, what with all the water that seemed to keep appearing in my eyes every few minutes.

I am in no way saying you shouldn't see this movie, not just because, if you are reading this blog, you are likely a Disney fan, but because it is an incredibly well crafted and wonderfully acted film.
Saving Mr. Banks gives Mary Poppins a richer, fuller, and, yes, even more emotional resonance.
I actually can't recommend you see this lovely glimpse at the creation of one of Walt Disney's most enduring masterpieces enough.

Maybe just wait until after Christmas.