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Jodie Foster’s performance in the new film “Nyad” is a true triumph and a testament to her exceptional talent. While the movie falls within the sports biopic genre, Foster’s role stands out as a beacon of excellence. Beyond showcasing her acting prowess, this role also weaves a complex narrative that resonates with Foster’s personal journey.
“Nyad,” which is currently in theaters and set to debut on Netflix on November 3, tells the remarkable story of long-distance swimmer Diana Nyad, portrayed by Annette Bening. The film focuses on Nyad’s historic swim from Cuba to Key West in 2013, with her best friend and coach, Bonnie Stoll, portrayed by Jodie Foster. Notably, both Nyad and Stoll, in the movie as in real life, are openly lesbian women. Their connection is not only rooted in shared experiences but also in their identities as outsiders.
In the film, Bonnie Stoll emerges as a captivating character, especially when Diana is underwater on her epic swim. Clad in distinctive Ray-Ban sports glasses and her trademark bandanna, Bonnie exudes the tough, no-nonsense demeanor that fans might remember from Foster’s roles in movies like “The Silence of the Lambs” and “Panic Room.” However, there’s a significant twist to Bonnie’s character—her queerness is an integral part of her identity.
This portrayal is a fresh and compelling look for Jodie Foster. In 2013, Foster grappled with her own decision to come out publicly. During her acceptance speech for the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes, she teased the audience about confirming her lesbian identity but concluded with, “I am … single.” She expressed her gratitude to her “ex-partner in love but righteous soul sister in life,” Cydney Bernard. Foster’s speech was a complex mix of humor and heartfelt statements, leaving some ambiguity about her comfort level with sharing her personal life with the world.
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Foster gradually revealed more of herself over the years, such as her appearance via Zoom from her couch with her dog and girlfriend while winning another Golden Globe in 2021 for “The Mauritanian.” Her choices regarding self-disclosure are entirely valid, especially considering her early exposure as a child star and her subsequent experiences as an object of public fascination.
However, Foster’s portrayal of Bonnie Stoll in “Nyad” represents a significant departure from her previous roles. In the film, she fully embraces an out queer character with strength and passion. This role adds depth to her acting career, showcasing her ability to deliver well-phrased monologues with conviction. It’s a moment that underscores her journey from the guarded child star to the accomplished actress she is today.
While Foster had hinted at potentially leaving the movie business during her 2013 Golden Globes speech, we’re grateful that she chose to stay. Her performance in “Nyad” stands as a testament to her talent, and it also enhances Annette Bening’s portrayal of Diana Nyad. Diana’s character in the film can be enigmatic and challenging, even to those close to her. Bonnie, however, with her butch and assertive demeanor, provides a lifeline for both Diana and the audience, guiding us through the arduous journey.
“Nyad” primarily tells Diana’s story, but it also allows viewers to glimpse the multifaceted talent of Jodie Foster. As she embraces this role, she exemplifies the strength and confidence that she has fought for in her personal life. Jodie Foster’s portrayal of Bonnie Stoll in “Nyad” is more than just a remarkable performance; it’s a pivotal moment in her career and personal narrative.
