True Spirit is a 2023 Australian biographical drama film directed by Stuart Beattie and written by Beattie and Justin Monjo. The film stars Teagan Croft as Jessica Watson, a 16-year-old who becomes the youngest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around the world. The film also stars Aaron Jeffery, Sam Neill, and Jacqueline McKenzie.
The film was released in Australia on April 28, 2023, and on Netflix on May 19, 2023. It received positive reviews from critics, with praise for Croft's performance and Beattie's direction.
Plot:
Jessica Watson is a 16-year-old girl from Australia who has always dreamed of sailing around the world. She trains for years and eventually sets sail in her yacht, Ella's Pink Lady. Along the way, she faces many challenges, including storms, pirates, and loneliness. But she never gives up, and she eventually becomes the youngest person to sail solo, non-stop and unassisted around the world.
Cast:
- Teagan Croft as Jessica Watson
- Aaron Jeffery as Roger Watson
- Sam Neill as Jim Whalley
- Jacqueline McKenzie as Julie Watson
Reception:
True Spirit received positive reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film has a 92% approval rating based on 100 reviews, with an average rating of 7.5/10. The website's critical consensus reads, "True Spirit is a heartwarming and inspiring biopic that tells the story of a young woman who achieved her dreams against all odds." On Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 75 out of 100, based on 30 critics, indicating "generally favorable reviews".
Box office:
True Spirit was released in Australia on April 28, 2023, and grossed $1.5 million in its opening weekend. The film went on to gross $6.5 million worldwide.
Sequel:
There is currently no sequel to True Spirit in development.