They
call them Moving Picture, but how few of them really are? It is a rare
thing that a film actually moves people and it is a pure joy when one is
discovered. It is an elusive gem that reminds the audience of the
inspired storytelling and elegant art form that the cinema once was.
Director, John Lee Hancock, The Blind Side, does just that, masterfully
crafting a film that is a beautifully told and deeply emotional tale regarding
the true back story of the jewel in the crown of Walt Disney's near legendary
live action achievement. I am not a fan of Hank's politics, but there is
no disputing that he is one of the finest actors of the modern era. His
portrayal of the genius and humanity that Disney possessed is simply breathtaking
blurring the lines between reality and reenactment. Thompson is exquisite
as author P.L Travers, whose resistance to Walt's twenty year obsession to put
her famed literary heroine onto the silver screen for all to enjoy exposes her
painful past and burdensome adoration for her emotionally and physically
unstable father. And, in the end, reveals glimpses into Disney’s own
damaged family history and drive to bring happiness to his own offspring and
children around the world because of it. The remaining cast is
magnificent, their performances are so authentic you forget you are watching a
movie and instead, share a moment in history that we all would have been poorer
for had the man with a mouse and dream not been so annoyingly persistent.
Disney tried to be the father he wished he had, and because of it,
he brought pure joy and wonder to his generation, the next, and all to come.
The cinematography, setting, and costuming is absolutely genuine,
enhancing a well balanced plot that is so intensely dramatic in scenes that it
is nearly impossible to view without eyes haunted by tears. You will
never watch Mary Poppins again and, thankfully, will be richer for it. 5
out of 5 Kernels; thank you Walt, for keeping a twenty year promise and for
truly saving Mr. Banks.
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