Review of Saving Mr. Banks (2013) by Julie T — 27 Apr 2014

May I first be honest and admit I am Disney fan, and quite frankly I think only real Disney fans are going to really enjoy this. The story of PL Travers dedication to saving her creation from Disneyfication , a battle she looses spectacularly.

Tom Hanks is a charming and whimsical Walt and Emma slightly more convincing as a very English PL Travers, who finally is won over by Walts money. The film interweaves the story of Ms Travers early life in the Australian outback with a young mother who is overwhelmed by her situation and a father who lives a semi fantasy existence supported by what ever alcohol is available to him.

The disappointing aspect of the movie is, when the venerable aunt with a parrot handled umbrella breezes into their house hold, scrubbing and tidying and taking charge there is no attempt to examine her relationship with the young woman who eventually bases Mary Poppins upon her.

Does she sit for hours taking with her, spreading pearls of wisdom, does she take in the family at some point ? We never find out, which is the major failure of the film, why does her Aunt inspire her to create Mary ? That said the recreation of the late fifties / early sixties is charming, Walts persuasion tactics , showing Mrs Travers around Disney Land, getting her singing with the Coen brothers, make pleasant enough viewing.

A nice family movie, definite must for Disney fans.