The talent is immense and extensive—Tom Hanks, Emma Thompson, Colin Farrell, Paul Giamatti, Jason Schwartzman, Ruth Wilson and more—the story is interesting (the true tale of Walt Disney‘s attempt to get “Mary Poppins” made, and it’s Oscar chances solidified by having John Lee Hancock, the director behind the feel-good smash hit “The Blind Side,” at the helm. So then why does the first trailer for “Saving Mr. Banks” feel like a long three-minute commercial for the magic of Walt Disney and its resorts?
Yes, the mouse house has rolled out the first promo for the movie and to be certain, it all looks impeccably mounted, but it also feels like one big reach-around by Walt Disney to give shine to their earnestness, while celebrating just how special the studio and founder really was. The film features Tom Hanks in the titantic role of Walt Disney, who struggles to get the rights and find creative common ground with P.L. Travers, the author of “Mary Poppins.” So what’s the friction? Well, the character and novel is really special to the writer because the book is secretly about her father, and in case you need it spelled out for you, “Mary Poppins” is about how this magical woman doesn’t doesn’t save the kids but the parents. AWWW… LEARNING AND FEELINGS.
Practically tailor made to be the front-end of a double bill with “Mary Poppins” itself (watch the behind-the-scenes story and then see the real movie!),”Saving Mr. Banks” will warm your heart right around Christmas on December 13th. Watch below. [Moviefone]