The married filmmakers Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi have gained recognition for their documentaries about extreme athletic achievements, such as Meru (2015), Free Solo (2018), and The Rescue (2021). Now, they have made their narrative directorial debut with Nyad, a film that tells the story of one woman’s relentless pursuit of swimming from Cuba to Florida without the protection of a cage. This remarkable accomplishment has captivated audiences globally.
While many viewers may already be aware that Nyad succeeded in her goal, they may not be familiar with the numerous personal and professional obstacles she had to overcome. In Nyad, these challenges are vividly brought to life by Chin and Vasarhelyi, making them the perfect filmmakers to tell this inspiring story. Julia Cox has written a solid script that serves as the foundation for their direction.
However, the standout aspect of Nyad is undoubtedly the extraordinary performance by Annette Bening in the titular role. Bening, a veteran actress who has consistently delivered great performances throughout her career, reaches new heights in this film. Her physically demanding and vanity-free portrayal of Nyad is truly remarkable. Nyad herself has expressed her delight with Bening’s performance, stating that she was “blown away” by it in a recent Los Angeles Times interview.
Bening’s portrayal of Nyad ticks all the boxes for the type of performance the Academy tends to favor. Her portrayal of a real-life figure who is alive and enthusiastic about the film, combined with her long-standing reputation in the industry, makes her a compelling contender for awards recognition. Bening has been nominated for an Oscar four times in the past, dating back over three decades. A win for her at this stage in her career would not only recognize her incredible talent but also mirror Nyad’s own achievement. Bening, who would be 65 years old on the Oscar night, would become the third oldest recipient of the Best Actress award, after Jessica Tandy and Katharine Hepburn.
While the film certainly focuses on Bening’s performance, it is important to highlight another outstanding performance by Jodie Foster in the key supporting role of Bonnie Stoll, Nyad’s best friend and coach. Foster, a two-time Oscar winner, brings Stoll’s endearing eccentricity to life in a way that captures the essence of her character. Unfortunately, Nyad herself was unable to attend the Telluride Film Festival due to warnings from her guild, SAG-AFTRA. However, Stoll was present, offering audiences the opportunity to witness how accurately Foster portrayed her on screen.
In terms of its overall Oscar potential, Nyad, which will be released by Netflix in select theaters on October 20 before streaming on November 3, has several factors working in its favor. Beyond the exceptional performances, the film carries a poignant message that will resonate with many Academy members: you are never too old to pursue your dreams. Netflix’s campaign for the film, combined with this powerful message, may contribute to its consideration as an Oscar contender.
In conclusion, Nyad represents a significant milestone for Jimmy Chin and Chai Vasarhelyi as they transition from documentary filmmaking to narrative storytelling. With a seasoned cast led by the exceptional Annette Bening and supported by Jodie Foster, the film sheds light on Diana Nyad’s awe-inspiring journey. With its message of perseverance and the outstanding performances at the forefront, Nyad has the potential to leave a lasting impact on audiences and secure a place in the awards season.