As the trend of biopics continues to dominate the cinematic landscape in 2023, Netflix dives into uncharted waters with its latest release, Nyad. The film, which hit the streaming platform on November 3, chronicles the remarkable journey of marathon swimmer, author, journalist, and motivational speaker Diana Nyad.
The narrative unfolds in 1978 when the then 28-year-old Nyad attempted the historic swim from Cuba to Florida, a feat that eluded her at the time. Fast forward to her sixties, portrayed by Annette Bening, Nyad sets out on a daring quest to conquer the challenging swim once again, enlisting her best friend and former coach Bonnie Stoll, played by Jodie Foster.
Directed by the acclaimed duo Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, known for their work on Free Solo, Nyad follows the conventions of the sports-bio genre. From training montages to suspenseful setbacks, the film captures the essence of Nyad’s relentless pursuit of her seemingly impossible goal.
What sets Nyad apart, critics say, is its focus on a 60-something gay female athlete, breaking away from the typical mould of sports narratives. The film immerses viewers in Nyad’s world, emphasising the personal journey, friendship and teamwork that drive her, rather than relying solely on the suspense of the outcome.
Anchored by the stellar performances of Bening and Foster, the film explores the indomitable spirit of Nyad and the balanced counterweight provided by Stoll. The chemistry between the two veteran actresses adds a loving and platonic depth to the story, emphasising female friendship without succumbing to Hollywood clichés.
Despite its strengths, Nyad reportedly faces criticism for its exaggerated sense of drama and the omission of controversies surrounding the accuracy of events, particularly Nyad’s final swim. However, the film succeeds in delivering old-fashioned, inspirational Hollywood entertainment, thanks to the compelling portrayals by Bening and Foster.
While Nyad may not reach the pinnacle of its lead actors’ performances, may agree that it stands out in Hollywood for celebrating not only a queer hero but also an older one. In a town obsessed with youth, the film’s spotlight on strong and authentic characters adds a layer of significance to Nyad’s extraordinary tale—a tale almost as remarkable as swimming 100 miles in the open ocean.
