I recently watched Nyad. Annette Bening, Jodie Foster, Rhys Ifans and the gang give wonderful performances in this astounding story about the marathon swimmer, Diana Nyad, who in her 60s decided to reattempt a 110 mile open-ocean swim she had failed to complete in her 20s.
A quick read about the actual Diana Nyad reveals a controversial character, particularly in regard to the legitimacy of some of her claims and achievements. I had to think about this before posting – I don’t want to promote exaggeration or dishonesty.
However, I decided to share this blog because, firstly, the film is genuinely enjoyable, well crafted and uplifting. Secondly, the story centres on a person who, well beyond her prime (though I wouldn’t dare suggest this to her) jumped back into an unforgiving ocean, the home of sharks and deadly box-jellyfish, believing she could swim for three days straight to achieve her goal. Whether all the ratifying technicalities were observed or not, the attempt, in and of itself, is simply awe-inspiring. Here is someone who backs her sentiments up with action:
“I just want to say three things. One, never, ever give up. Two, you’re never too old to chase your dreams. And three, it looks like a solitary sport, but it takes a team.”
My efforts to forge a career as an actor come with challenges that often seem insurmountable. I’m grateful for people like Diana Nyad who charge into the unknown, shine their light brightly from way over there and beckon us forward.
“Whatever your Other Shore is,
– Diana Nyad
whatever you must do,
whatever inspires you,
you will find a way to get there.”
Ps. The title of this post comes from the poem, The Summer Day by Mary Oliver, strongly referenced in the film and seemingly a source of inspiration to the actual Diana Nyad.
Jeffrey Mundell 