A new Netflix biopic has proved to be a hit among viewers, with fans raving about the ‘inspiring’ true story.
Nyad became available on the streaming platform on November 3 and viewers have flooded X, formerly known as Twitter, to praise the movie.
Written by Julia Cox and directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, the ‘must-see’ film is based on the real and controversial tale of journalist Diana Nyad.
The remarkable true story is performed by a star-studded cast, including Academy Award nominee, Annette Bening, Oscar winner, Jodie Foster, and House of the Dragon’s Rhys Ifans.
The biopic tells the tale of 60-year-old Nyad (Annette Bening), who becomes obsessed with an extreme 110-mile swim from Florida to Cuba – an accomplishment that has always evaded her.
After decades away from the sport, the marathon swimmer is fixed on becoming the first person to complete the epic challenge, dubbed the ‘Mount Everest’ of swims.
Nyad wanted to make the swim across shark infested water of Florida Straits without a shark cage – dissimilar to Susie Maroney and Walter Poenisch, who made the journey in 1997 and 1998, respectively.
Although swimming is seemingly an individual sport, the motivational speaker did not make the journey solo.
Her sailing team as well as her best friend and coach, Bonnie Stoll (Jodie Foster) were by her side every step of the four-year journey.
But not everyone was happy about the athlete making the treacherous swim, in the pursuit of ‘igniting’ her soul.
‘You didn’t make it when you were 28,’ said Stoll to the swimmer, adding ‘You’re 60!’
After 36 years and five attempts by the marathon swimmer, she finally becomes the first person to make the brutal and dangerous journey without a shark cage.
Beyond the big screen, the real Diana Nyad accomplishment was denied ratification by the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA), due to inconsistent documentation.
The swim is no longer recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as ‘record-breaking’ and has not been ratified by any marathon swimming body, according to Digital Spy.
Fans took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to sing the praises of the new movie, with some branding it as a ‘must-see’ ‘masterpiece’ filled with ‘outstanding performances’.
‘Bening’s portrayal of Diana Nyad is nothing short of extraordinary,’ wrote one jubilant viewer.
‘Her nuanced performance of the character brings a depth and authenticity that resonates with the viewer. Must see!’
Another chimed in labelling the film a ‘real crowd pleaser’, adding: I’ve had way more conversations about NYAD this week than I was anticipating.’
Some movie fans praised Annette Bening and Jodie Foster for their portrayal of athleticism, quipping: ‘No make up, sheer and raw – and bloody awesome.’
Many flooded the comments with praise for the two leading ladies, with one film buff noting: ‘These women are freaking GOLD!!!’
Another said: ‘Just finished watching Nyad. An amazing story of an amazing woman. And so refreshing to see two brilliant women my age in leading roles!’
One fan raved: ‘Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! What a relief to FINALLY see REAL women of their AGE in a movie!!’
‘Loved the movie. Very inspiring. Never give up on your dreams. Stay razor-focused and keep pushing,’ wrote a motivated watcher.
A film fanatic also stated: ‘It is brilliant! Exciting & tense, moving & poignant. Wonderful film.’
James Parker is a UK-based entertainment aficionado who delves into the glitz and glamour of the entertainment industry. From Hollywood to the West End, he offers readers an insider’s perspective on the world of movies, music, and pop culture.
