Disney’s “Saving Mr. Banks,” inspired by the extraordinary, untold backstory of how Disney’s classic “Mary Poppins” made it to the screen. When Walt Disney’s daughters begged him to make a movie of their favorite book, P.L. Travers’ “Mary Poppins,” he made them a promise—one that he didn’t realize would take 20 years to keep. In his quest to obtain the rights, Walt comes up against a curmudgeonly, uncompromising writer who has absolutely no intention of letting her beloved magical nanny get mauled by the Hollywood machine. But, as the books stop selling and money grows short, Travers reluctantly agrees to go to Los Angeles to hear Disney’s plans for the adaptation. For those two short weeks in 1961, Walt Disney pulls out all the stops Walt discovers the truth about the ghosts that haunt her, and together they set Mary Poppins free to ultimately make one of the most endearing films in cinematic history. The film will release in theaters on December 13, 2013.

The USAFF screened this delightful and charming film last month. If you’re looking for an unusual and special holiday gift…why not give a 1-Year Membership? The USA Film Festival, a 44-year-old, Dallas-based, year-round 501(c)3 organization dedicated to the recognition and promotion of excellence in the film and video arts and to bringing filmmakers and audiences together. To become a Member of the Festival and receive many FREE SCREENINGS every month before they are released to the public, contact them for membership info at http://www.usafilmfestival.com/