Winds from the east . . . Mist comin' in . . .

Credit: Disney Films

Like something's a brewin', about to begin . . .

Can't put me finger on what lies in store . . .

But I feel what's to 'appen, all 'appened before . . ."

- Mary Poppins, the movie

And so starts the beautiful opening scene from the movie, Savings Mr. Banks. Out of all the Golden Globe, Oscar and Screen Actors' Guild Award contenders this awards season, the one that's surprised me the most is Saving Mr. Banks. The film pulls you in, right from the get-go. There's just something about the irony of knowing that the author of one of the most beloved children's books/stories of all time had such a sad, sad childhood, that makes this film one not to miss.

I know, I know.There's been a ton of criticism on how Disney Films did not accurately portray the complex relationship between Walt Disney and P. L. Travers, Mary Poppins' author and the tale of how Disney tried to convince Taverse to sign over her right to Mary Poppins. There is definitely a lot of factual fault with the film. Even so, it's a charming, smart film. The main gist of it, that the disappointment and sadness Travers experienced as a child is what allowed her to create Mary Poppins, is not lost. Talk about making lemonade out of lemons.

Emma Thompson as Travers and Paul Giamatti as her Hollywood chauffeur are superb. The flashbacks to Travers' Australian outback upbringing,  contrasting with her controlled English life are, as the English say, brilliant. And although I'm not a huge fan of Tom Hanks (I know this is sacriligious to many of you, kind of like not liking Julie Roberts, who I also don't like so much), I have to admit he was pretty good as Disney. And a big shout-out to Colin Farrell (see him in one of my favorite films, In Bruges, for some amazing acting), who was very convincing as Travers' alcoholic, tender, and loving father.

I cried like crazy during many parts of the movie, just because there were so many heart-breaking and poignant moments during the scenes of Travers as an adult, who is shown constantly remembering and reflecting on her childhood and her relationship with her father, as she struggles to decide whether she should give up the rights to her beloved Mary Poppins ("Never, ever just Mary, " says Travers in the film) to Disney. 

You've probably seen Mary Poppins the movie, and you've been to Disney World. So now do yourself a favor and go see Saving Mr. Banks before it rolls on out of theatres. Spit-spot.  You're gonna love it.