“Saving Mr. Banks” illustrates the 20 year struggle of Walt Disney to obtain the rights to P.L. Travers’ book series, “Mary Poppins.”
In the film, P.L. Travers (Emma Thompson) shows little interest in letting Walt Disney (Tom Hanks) transform her cherished literary creation into a Hollywood movie, but when her book sales begin to lessen, Travers reluctantly turns to Disney to discuss movie rights. A determined Disney works tirelessly to convince the author that “Mary Poppins” will be a respectful and tasteful adaptation, yet Travers is reluctant. When hope for acquiring the film rights becomes tentative, Disney relates his creation of Mickey Mouse to Travers’ protection of “Mary Poppins,” inspired by her past, and makes a last effort to create a classic Disney movie.
“Saving Mr. Banks” develops two plots simultaneously: Travers’ childhood and Disney’s filmmaking endeavor. The movie juggles the two stories, rather than focusing on or refining one. Despite the slight disorganization, “Saving Mr. Banks” is interesting and enjoyable to watch, highlighting the unknown, personal story behind the making of “Mary Poppins.”
The film is rated PG-13 for thematic content and images of alcohol and smoking. “Saving Mr. Banks” is recommended for preteens and adults and anyone who loves the Disney movie “Mary Poppins.”
