Logline: NYAD tells the remarkable true story of athlete Diana Nyad who, at the age of 60 and with the help of her best friend and coach, commits to achieving her life-long dream: a 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida.
If you’ve ever wondered why people admire athletes, and why you constantly hear conversations about who’s the GOAT, there’s a simple explanation. These people are superhuman. Not actually, but some of the feats they perform are so unbelievable that they might as well be members of the X-Men. They’ve sacrificed their time, relationships, and bodies to reach levels news-worthy levels of physicality. We watch in awe as occasionally tower over us as they run, jump, throw, catch, lift, skate, and swim better than we can ever imagine. Despite some things looking nearly impossible, the fact that they’re human reminds us that we can do anything we truly put our mind and time to.
“Could there be another dream?”
Great feats are sometimes performed by some not-so-great people. Directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, Nyad is where a sea of doubt wars with an indomitable spirit. In many ways, this Nyad may follow the structure of other sports biopics, but unlike others, it doesn’t skirt away from moments that may result in its subject looking like a villain at times. In other words, it resides in authenticity. Adapted from the book, Find a Way by Diana Nyad herself, the film begins with archival footage setting the scene for what’s to come. Opting to begin this awe-inspiring story at the precipice of her current journey rather than her childhood awards the story the opportunity to tell a more compelling narrative.
As the film begins its descent into the water, we begin to witness flashbacks into Diana’s success as a young swimmer, but also a past that she has attempted to outswim that continues to haunt her. Wondering if her dreams and aspirations are out of reach due to her increasing age, there’s no more time for thinking, only doing. The story becomes an internalized mental battle as well as one against the elements. Taking on a seemingly impossible physical feat, the cards are gravely stacked against her. The decorated swimmer’s unwavering and oftentimes abrasive determination, loyal support system, and luck are what can get her through.
“No more sitting on the sidelines.”
As much as this film is about the impressive and inhuman 60-hour swim at 60-plus years of age, it’s at its best when focused on interpersonal relationships. For a story championing resilience, determination, and the human spirit, Diana often appears to be an unlikable person. However, that aspect is what makes it different. It’s real and honest with itself. At times, to do something that no one has ever done before, tempers are going to flare, friendships are put on the line, and at times, you may look like the bad guy. There are no perfect stories. Furthermore, the film extends its scope and you get a feel for what it feels like to be a best friend, Bonnie Stoll as she drops everything to become everything Diana needs.
Nyad is triumphant in the water. As vast as the ocean is, the scenes feel claustrophobic and intense. Not only will you be supremely charmed at times but you will find yourself utterly fascinated. It begs the question, what are you going to do with your life? While you ponder what it poses, it reminds you that it’s never too late to follow your dreams. Whether you’re familiar with the outcome of this recent history or not, it is difficult not to be impressed by the rundown of accomplishments. Yes, the character arcs are predictable but the performances are good and the story is great. It may not be something that you rush to rewatch but it’s worth at least one. Its rewatchability is low.
Pacing & Pop
The film moves at a comfortable and somewhat predictable pace. Nevertheless, its smooth approach will garner all of your attention. What popped for me was the unbelievable feat of determination and athleticism that was on display. As someone who is far from prolific in the water, the fact that someone is willing to swim nonstop for consecutive hours is unfathomable.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Annette Bening, Jodie Foster, Rhys Ifans
While the story itself is incredibly impressive, it’s the people who are a part of it that make it worth telling. Diana Nyad is the most determined and nothing short of tenacious and Annette Bening brings her to life in amazing fashion. Metabolizing Nyad’s fierce and intense drive, Bening turns this athletic triumph into a very human story. She embodies the good, the bad, and the ugly. However, Jodie Foster’s portrayal of Bonnie Stoll pulls focus in a big way. This story could easily be told from Stoll’s perspective. The selflessness and loyalty are admirable. When together on screen, everything else disappears. Rhys Ifans also delivers an intriguing and note-worthy performance as John Bartlett.
Nyad was currently in select theaters and begins streaming on Netflix on November 3, 2023. Remain safe and keep chasing your dreams.
Rated: PG-13
Runtime: 2h
Directors: Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin
Writers: Julia Cox
Adapted from: “Find a Way” by Diana Nyad
Producers: Andrew Lazar, p.g.a. and Teddy Schwarzman, p.g.a. Music: Alexandre Desplat
Editor: Christopher Tellefsen, a.c.e.
Director of Photography: Claudio Miranda a.s.c., a.c.c.
Production Design: Kara Lindstrom
Executive Producers: Bill Johnson, Jim Seibel, Michael Heimler, Vanessa Humphrey, Julia Cox, D. Scott Lumpkin
Nyad is where a sea of doubt wars with an indomitable spirit. In many ways, this Nyad may follow the structure of other sports biopics, but unlike others, it doesn't skirt away from moments that may result in its subject looking like a villain at times.
-
GVN Rating 7
-
User Ratings (0 Votes)
0