Staff Writer
Tom Hanks revealed to Sky News that he was committed to portraying the real Walt Disney in Saving Mr. Banks.
Some expected the film to be propaganda from Disney Studios, making their founder look like nothing more than a hero. Critics have given it positive reviews, however, complimenting the film’s accuracy and cast performance.
“It would have been easy for Disney to turn it into the ‘Uncle Walt’ version of it all—but I think if you’re going to go back, you’ve got to give it a little bit of teeth,” Hanks said.
“Teeth” meant Hanks portraying the cursing, drinking, smoking Walt Disney—probably not the image many get of the man behind the family-friendly franchise, but the authentic image nonetheless.
The challenge of a real-life role was one welcome to the Oscar winner.
“Even though we’re going to change things, we still maintain some brand of authenticity to the story. I like not having to make things up if I don’t have to,” he said.
This is familiar territory for Hanks, who has played several successful roles based on real-life history. These include Forrest Gump, Apollo 13, and Saving Private Ryan.
Saving Mr. Banks, directed by The Blind Side’s John Lee Hancock, details Disney’s 20-year attempt to gain the rights to Mary Poppins, a novel by P.L. Travers. Once Disney reached his goal, he and Travers were constantly at odds behind-the-scenes.
If predictions are correct, Hanks, already a five-time Academy Award nominee and two-time winner, may have some more nominations in his future.
Saving Mr. Banks is in UK cinemas now and hits US theaters on December 20.
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