The actors' performances distinguish this film and raise it above the standard achievement movie. Annette Benning is great, but it is really Jodie Foster as Nyad's coach and friend who triumphs, as well as Rhys Ifans as the guide who plots Nyad's course. Foster is always excellent, but Ifans was a surprise after his less than scintillating performance in Notting Hill Gate. He has aged well and is totally convincing as John Bartlett. The story itself is well-crafted, making a 110-mile swim suspenseful even though you know the successful outcome. The supporting cast is all superb, starting with Eric Miller as the young Nyad's seedy swim coach Jack Nelson.
Review of Nyad
