Netflix’s new biopic has proven a hit with viewers, with fans raving about the “inspirational” true story.
Nyad became available on the streaming platform on November 3, and viewers flocked to X, formerly known as Twitter, to praise the film.
Written by Julia Cox and directed by Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi and Jimmy Chin, the “must-see” film is based on the controversial true story of journalist Diana Nyad.
The remarkable true story is performed by an all-star cast, including Academy Award nominee Annette Bening, Academy Award winner Jodie Foster, and House of the Dragon’s Rhys Ifans.
The biopic tells the story of 60-year-old Nyad (Annette Bening), who becomes obsessed with an extreme 110-mile swim from Florida to Cuba – a feat that has always eluded her.
After decades away from the sport, the marathon swimmer is focused on becoming the first person to complete the epic challenge, dubbed the “Mount Everest” of swimming.
Nyad wanted to swim through the shark-infested waters of the Florida Strait without a shark cage, unlike Susie Maroney and Walter Boenisch, who made the journey in 1997 and 1998, respectively.
Although swimming seems to be an individual sport, the motivational speaker did not make the journey alone.
Her sailing team as well as her best friend and coach Bonnie Stoll (Jodie Foster) have been by her side every step of the four-year journey.
But not everyone was happy that this athlete took the treacherous swim in an effort to “ignite” her soul.
“You couldn’t survive when you were 28,” Stoll told the swimmer, adding, “You’re 60!”
After 36 years and five attempts by a marathon swimmer, she has finally become the first person to undertake the brutal and dangerous journey without a shark cage.
Away from the big screen, Diana Nyad’s real feat was refused certification by the World Open Water Swimming Association (WOWSA), due to inconsistent documentation.
The swim is no longer recognized by Guinness World Records as “record-breaking,” and has not been endorsed by any marathon swimming body, according to the British Daily Mail. Digital Spy.
Fans took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to sing the new film’s praises, with some calling it a “must-see” masterpiece filled with “outstanding performances.”
“Bening’s portrayal of Diana Nyad is nothing short of exceptional,” one delighted viewer wrote.
‘Her nuanced performance of the character brings a depth and authenticity that resonates with the viewer. A must see!’
Another chimed in in calling the film a “real crowd pleaser,” adding: I’ve had more conversations about NYAD this week than I expected.
Some cinephiles praised Annette Bening and Jodie Foster for their portrayal of sportsmanship, quipping: “No make-up, transparent and raw – and absolutely gorgeous.”
Many flooded the comments with praise for the two leading ladies, with one film buff noting: “These women are eccentric!!!”
Another said: “Just finished watching Niaad. An amazing story of an amazing woman. So refreshing to see two amazing women my age in lead roles!”
One fan chanted: “Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!” What a relief when I finally see real women their age in a movie!!’
‘I loved the movie. Very inspiring. never give up your dreams. “Stay focused on shaving and keep pushing,” one enthusiastic observer wrote.
One movie fan also said: “It’s amazing!” Exciting, tense, poignant and poignant. Wonderful movie.”
