Saving Mr. Banks

Main Plot

"Saving Mr. Banks" explores the behind-the-scenes journey of bringing the beloved character Mary Poppins to the big screen. The film focuses on the tense collaboration between Walt Disney and author P.L. Travers, whose book inspired the iconic film. Travers is initially reluctant to sell the rights to her story, fearing that Disney's adaptation will compromise her work's integrity. The narrative alternates between Travers' negotiations with Disney in 1961 and flashbacks to her childhood in Australia, revealing the personal experiences that shaped her writing. These flashbacks provide insight into her complex relationship with her father, which deeply influences her attachment to the character of Mr. Banks in her story. As the film progresses, Disney and his creative team work tirelessly to win Travers over, facing numerous challenges and disagreements about the film's tone, characters, and musical elements. The story highlights themes of artistic integrity, the power of storytelling, and the impact of childhood experiences on adult life. Ultimately, "Saving Mr. Banks" is a poignant exploration of the creative process and the emotional journey of letting go, culminating in a resolution that honors both the author's vision and the magic of Disney's adaptation.

Characters

• Emma Thompson plays P.L. Travers, the author of "Mary Poppins," who reluctantly collaborates with Walt Disney to adapt her book into a film, revealing her emotional backstory.
• Tom Hanks plays Walt Disney, who persuades author P.L. Travers to allow him to adapt her book into a film.
• Annie Rose Buckley plays young P.L. Travers, showcasing her childhood experiences and relationship with her father, which deeply influence her creation of Mary Poppins.

Ending Explained

At the conclusion of the film, P.L. Travers attends the premiere of the movie adaptation of her book. Initially resistant to the idea of her beloved 'Mary Poppins' being transformed into a Disney film, Travers is visibly anxious and skeptical about the final product. As the film unfolds, she is moved to tears, particularly during the scenes that highlight the emotional journey of Mr. Banks, the father character. This moment signifies a turning point for Travers, as she realizes that the film captures the essence of her own childhood experiences and her complex relationship with her father. Throughout the movie, Travers has been portrayed as protective of her work, stemming from her deep personal connection to the story. The ending reveals that the character of Mr. Banks is a reflection of her own father, whose struggles with alcoholism and eventual redemption are mirrored in the film. The emotional impact of seeing her father's story portrayed on screen leads to a moment of catharsis for Travers. Despite her initial reluctance, she acknowledges the film's ability to honor her father's memory and the healing it brings her. This resolution underscores the film's central theme of reconciliation with the past and the transformative power of storytelling.