The true story of athlete Diana Nyad is highly motivating when she decides to fulfill her life-long dream at the age of 60 from where she was pulled off at the age of 28. She wants to win for herself a 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida. Something impossible to be made possible. Being a fierce fighter towards her goal, she loses her sleep. Scenes from her childhood reassure how Nyad (water nymph) is attached to her life. Diana starts practicing hard. No force on earth can block her.
I am seeing Jodie Foster in a film after a long gap. She delighted me beyond words. You barely feel she is acting. Such a natural! Bonnie played by Foster is Diana’s best friend and coach. This interesting conversation between the two after grocery shopping and a small birthday party clearly shows their personas- at 60 you are done with the world, they see you as a bag of bones- Bonnie’s sober replies to Diana’s rants prove how opposite poles attract. Nyad captures their camaraderie through thick and thin. I would say this unmatched bond led the audience through a predictable sports drama. Both received Oscar and SAG Awards nominations. Annette won SAG.
As Diana, Annette Bening remains aggressive and self-obsessed. She appears in casuals and swimsuits in Nyad. Never on the glam side. Bening seemed a professional swimmer throughout, even in underwater shots. Her resilience against all odds and the real disappointment in defeats were touching. She is emotional in her way. Very convincing and power-packed.
It was interesting to know the assisting team in such competitions-coaches, kayakers, and medics.
Directors Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin have good control over their characters. And the script is well-paced. Neither the motivation nor emotions go overboard.
Diana Nyad’s inspirational quotes: Never ever give up. You’re never too old to chase your dreams. It looks like a solitary sport, but it takes a team.
I am in awe of both ladies off-screen. Annette at 65 and Foster at 61, how well they maintain their physique!Hats off!
Something bothers me after watching Nyad – bag of bones at 60..Hmm.