LyonME

I loved this movie, probably more so because I'd just about given up hope that Disney is capable of making good "Disney movies" anymore.

It strays somewhat from Trudy's actual story and there were a few historical boo boos that weren't quite right for the period but that wasn't troubling. It carries the spirit of Trudy and her times beautifully.

The actors were excellent. That they are not big names is probably a good thing. Rather than seeing the actor in yet another of many roles, we saw and felt the people behind the characters.

The parents, Jeanette Hain as Gertrude Ederle and Kim Bodnia as Henry Ederle, masterfully depicted the life of immigrant parents of their time without resorting to stereotypes. They faced very real economic challenges which lead to troubling decisions, such as marrying off their daughters to other German immigrants who seemed likely to achieve prosperity. But their hearts pushed them out of that box. At various points, the parents found ways around their own dictates.

Thank you, Disney, for going back to what you are good at.