Emma Thompson Delightfully Leads Mr. Banks

Rating: Null/10 (1 May 2014)

John Lee Hancock's 'Saving Mr. Banks' tells the story of P.L. Travers, creator of the classic Mary Poppins. Writers Kelly Marcel, Sue Smith and director Hancock depict how her loving father who struggled with alcoholism influenced her and her refusal to permit Disney to turn Mary Poppins into a movie. However, what I found to be lacking was Aunt Ellie's impact. Clearly she's the inspiration behind the character Mary Poppins and yet there is so little of her shown in the film and what her influence was is left for the viewer to assume. 'Saving Mr. Banks' is quite well shot. However, the special effects are poor. The editing and lighting are smooth and the score is very pleasing. The writing is brilliant, especially the sharp dialogues and the score is wonderful, particularly the renditions of the 'Mary Poppins' soundtrack.
The film boasts of several superb performances. Tom Hanks does a decent job. He exudes enough charm to carry off the part. Colin Farrell, even though not a convincing Australian, does a remarkable job otherwise. Same goes for Annie Rose Buckley. Paul Giamatti is excellent. Bradley Whitford, Jason Schwartzmann and Kathy Baker provide fine support. Rachel Griffiths is wonderful but she deserved more screen time. But, 'Saving Mr. Banks' belongs to Emma Thompson who delivers yet another transcendent performance marking one of her best works.
Flawed it may be but John Lee Hancock's movie is well worth watching. It's charming, colourful, delightful and very well acted.