"True Spirit: The Journey of Jessica Watson"

"True Spirit" tells the inspiring story of Jessica Watson, an Australian sailor who became the youngest person to sail solo around the world in 2009. Inspired by German sailor Jesse Martin, who had accomplished the same feat at a slightly older age, Watson used his memoir and route as partial inspiration, with support from her family and manager, and after years of training and experience on the water. Despite facing criticism and doubts about her maturity and readiness, Watson persisted and overcame multiple challenges, including a collision with a bulk carrier and surviving harsh weather conditions. Her accomplishment earned her recognition and became a symbol of the can-do spirit, particularly for girls and young women interested in sailing.

The film adaptation of Watson's story, titled "True Spirit" and starring Teagan Croft of DC's "Titans," is a crowd-pleaser that does justice to her remarkable journey. While the screenplay's structure occasionally interrupts the narrative's flow by cutting back to key moments in Watson's childhood, the sailing sequences are stirring and visually captivating. The film takes some liberties with Watson's personal life, particularly regarding her father's opposition to the trip and the fictionalization of her mentor, Bruce Arms. However, such compressions, deletions, and inventions are common in dramatizations of real-life events. The film's lean approach works well, but at times, it could have benefited from embracing the fable-like quality of Watson's journey, which could have made for a fantastic animated film.

Overall, the film's tone is perky and clean-scrubbed, suitable for a Disney Channel version of a wilderness survival tale. However, it may feel too simplistic for older audiences seeking a more nuanced portrayal of the story. While the film celebrates Watson's achievement, it also portrays anyone who raised objections to her trip as killjoy ninnies and outsiders. This portrayal may be a tad one-sided and may not fully examine the ingrained sexism that Watson faced from records-certifiers. The movie also seems more interested in promoting Watson's message than documenting her incredible journey through her blog.

Compared to the film adaptation, Watson's memoir and the 2010 documentary about her achievement, "210 Days," offer more thorough and nuanced looks at her story. These works delve deeper into the challenges and complexities that Watson faced during her journey, providing a more complete picture of her remarkable accomplishment. While dramatic features tend to have uncomplicated happy endings, documentaries often explore the messiness of life, offering a more authentic portrayal of real events.

Despite its shortcomings, "True Spirit" still manages to be a compelling and inspiring story about the power of perseverance and the importance of chasing one's dreams. Jessica Watson's incredible journey is a testament to the human spirit, and the film does a good job of capturing the excitement and danger of sailing solo around the world. It's a film that is sure to appeal to anyone who loves adventure and a good underdog story.

One of the film's strongest points is Teagan Croft's performance as Jessica Watson. Croft brings a sense of determination and vulnerability to the role, portraying Watson as a young woman who is not afraid to take risks but who also knows the weight of the responsibility she has taken on. The supporting cast is also solid, with Cliff Curtis and Sam Neill delivering strong performances as Watson's mentor and father, respectively.

Overall, "True Spirit" may not be a perfect film, but it is an entertaining and inspiring one. It celebrates the spirit of adventure and the resilience of the human spirit, reminding us that anything is possible if we have the courage and determination to pursue our dreams.

The film's cinematography and soundtrack also add to its appeal, capturing the vastness and beauty of the ocean and the isolation and intensity of Watson's journey. The visuals and music work together to create a sense of awe and wonder, reminding viewers of the majesty of the natural world and the smallness of humanity in comparison.

Despite its focus on Watson's personal journey, "True Spirit" also touches on important themes such as gender stereotypes, societal expectations, and the pressure to conform. Watson's decision to embark on a solo sailing trip around the world challenges the notion that young women should prioritize marriage and motherhood over adventure and self-discovery. The film also highlights the importance of following one's own path and not letting the opinions of others dictate one's choices.

In conclusion, "True Spirit" may not be a flawless film, but it is a story that will resonate with audiences who appreciate tales of resilience, courage, and determination. It is a tribute to the power of the human spirit and a celebration of the beauty and wonder of the natural world.The film also beautifully captures the vast and unforgiving nature of the ocean. The cinematography is stunning, with sweeping shots of the endless sea and intimate close-ups of Watson as she battles the elements. The sound design is also excellent, with the creaking of the boat and the rush of the waves creating an immersive and tense atmosphere.

Despite its strengths, "True Spirit" does have some shortcomings. The pacing can be slow at times, and the film occasionally feels overly sentimental. Some viewers may also find the film's focus on Watson's age and gender to be condescending or unnecessary. However, these issues are minor compared to the film's overall impact.

In the end, "True Spirit" is a must-watch for anyone who loves stories of human triumph and adventure. It's a film that reminds us of the importance of chasing our dreams and never giving up, no matter how daunting the challenges may seem. With strong performances and breathtaking visuals, "True Spirit" is a film that is sure to leave viewers inspired and uplifted.

Another aspect of "True Spirit" that stands out is its stunning cinematography. The film captures the beauty and danger of the open sea, and the shots of Watson's yacht sailing through stormy waters are particularly impressive. The soundtrack also adds to the film's overall atmosphere, with a mix of upbeat and reflective tunes that complement the action on screen.

While the film does a good job of capturing the excitement and danger of Watson's journey, some viewers may find it lacking in depth. The story focuses primarily on the physical challenges Watson faces as she sails around the world, and while there are moments that delve into her emotional struggles, they are not explored in great detail. Additionally, some of the supporting characters feel underdeveloped, with their roles in Watson's journey not fully fleshed out.

Despite these criticisms, "True Spirit" is a film that will leave audiences feeling uplifted and inspired. Watson's journey is an impressive feat of human endurance and determination, and the film does a good job of celebrating her achievements while also highlighting the risks and sacrifices she made along the way. It's a great choice for anyone who loves stories of adventure and triumph over adversity, and a reminder that with hard work and perseverance, anything is possible.

• Director

Sarah Spillane

• Writer

Sarah Spillane

Rebecca Banner

Cathy Randall

• Cinematographer

Danny Ruhlmann

• Editor

Veronika Jenet

• Composer

Nick Wales