About Warm Springs (HBO)

"Warm Springs" is a HBO television film that premiered on 30th April, 2005. This biographical drama features the life of Franklin D. Roosevelt - his personal struggles with polio and his discovery of the Warm Springs resort in Georgia. The film delivers an intimate account of Roosevelt’s battle with polio, depicting how the president’s own physical struggle helped inspire his New Deal policies.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Joseph Sargent and written by Margaret Nagle. Taking inspiration from history, "Warm Springs" was filmed on location at the Warm Springs Institute in Georgia, accurately recreating the time period and the atmosphere of the place.

Actors

• Kenneth Branagh as Franklin Delano Roosevelt - Branagh portrayed the character with empathy and authenticity, effectively capturing Roosevelt's charm, strength, and perseverance.
• Cynthia Nixon as Eleanor Roosevelt - Nixon portrayed Eleanor Roosevelt, focusing on her transformation from a reserved wife to a proactive and powerful advocate.
• David Paymer as Louis Howe - Paymer played Roosevelt's political advisor who remained a long-time ally and friend, portraying his loyalty with conviction.

Trivia / Interesting facts

• The film was shot on location, at the actual Warm Springs Institute in Georgia.
• Although the movie revolves around Franklin D. Roosevelt, the term "polio" is never mentioned in the movie.

Awards

"Warm Springs" received several award nominations and won the prestigious Emmy for Outstanding Made for Television Movie. Kenneth Branagh and Cynthia Nixon also received Emmy awards for their performances.

Quotes

• "Some men are paralyzed by their fear of what might happen. Others are freed."
• "We've all had dreams and we've all had nightmares, but we survive the nightmares because of our dreams."

Music, Soundtrack

• The film's score was composed by Bruce Broughton, whose poignant music brought depth to the narrative, eliciting the right emotions.