Saving Mr. Banks ***

A fascinating and surprisingly emotional behind-the-scenes story about the making of "Mary Poppins," "Saving Mr. Banks" tells the story of the conflict between English author P.L. Travers and the Disney organization, and Walt himself, in the development of the movie. At the time of the movie Miss Travers had been wooed by Walt Disney for 20 years, but had never given him the rights. She feared a treacly, sentimental (even animated!) version of her beloved book. She even insisted that the sessions be tape recorded, to memorialize her preferences.

Emma Thompson captures the hard defenses and fear of Travers, while letting us see glimpses of the hurt and the circumstances that made her that way, all of which is depicted in many flashbacks to her childhood in Australia. In these sequences Colin Farrell as the charismatic, imaginative, and alcoholic father, and the young actress Annie Rose Buckley as the young Travers are standouts.

Tom Hanks does a fine job as a sturdy, affable, persistent Walt Disney, who finally wins the trust of the author. Director John Lee Hancock ("Snow White and the Huntsman," "Blindside") plays up the emotions, especially in the Australian scenes. Supporting roles are all good, especially Paul Giamatti as Travers' driver. Stick around for the credits to see photos of Disney and Travers et al, and hear some of the taped session where she bosses the writers around like a school marm.