Nyad

In 2010, a now-determined Diana Nyad, played by Annette Bening, sets out to achieve her lifelong unfulfilled dream of swimming from Cuba to Florida. This challenge has haunted her since her unsuccessful attempts thirty years earlier, but now, at the age of 60, she seeks a spectacular conclusion to her swimming career.

Diana dives back into training, returning to a swimming pool after three decades. She finds joy in reconnecting with the water, reigniting her passion as she prepares to conquer the daunting swim.

Diana shares her ambitious swim plan with her best friend and former partner, Bonnie Stoll, portrayed by Jodie Foster. After a successful training test run off the coast of Mexico, Bonnie becomes convinced of Diana's potential and offers her unwavering support.

Initially apprehensive due to the frigid waters, Diana considers abandoning her dream. However, with Bonnie's encouragement and expert opinions that suggest her age shouldn't be a barrier, she regains the determination to continue her pursuit.

Diana moves to Key West, bringing on navigator John Bartlett to aid in overcoming the challenges of the Gulf Stream. Choosing a Shark Shield over a shark cage, she aims to preserve the swim's integrity while innovatively preparing for the upcoming journey.

On April 20, 2011, Diana undertakes a grueling 24-hour test swim to prepare for her historic swim from Cuba to Florida. With the help of Karly Rothenberg as the official captain, they secure the necessary visas, making significant strides toward the much-anticipated event.

In August 2011, Diana embarks on her first attempt to swim the Florida Straits since her last attempt in 1978. Despite her determination, adverse ocean currents cut her journey short after 42 hours, presenting both physical and mental challenges in the process.

A month later, during her second attempt, Diana faces a new danger in the form of box jellyfish. Stung numerous times, she pushes through excruciating pain, but eventually loses consciousness, showcasing the severe risks tied to her ambitious dream.

After recovering in the hospital, Diana reflects on her journey and decides to train for another year, determined to attempt her swim again. Guided by a jellyfish expert, she begins training in a protective suit, battling emotional demons from her past.

With August 2012 approaching, Diana prepares for yet another attempt, ignoring warnings of bad weather. Tension rises during a thunderstorm when Bonnie and John plead with her to delay, resulting in a heated argument that strains their relationship.

After some reflection, Diana reaches out to John but faces rejection due to his personal struggles. However, after reconciling with Bonnie, their bond strengthens, allowing John to return as navigator for Diana's fifth attempt in August 2013.

On August 31, 2013, Diana embarks on her fifth attempt to swim from Cuba to Florida. The conditions seem favorable, but tension mounts when the Shark Shield malfunctions and a shark approaches, heightening the stakes for her journey.

In a moment of exhaustion, Diana hallucinates as she swims, reflecting on her past and motivations. Bonnie jumps in to inspire her to persevere, demonstrating the strength of their support for one another as Diana pushes back against her limitations.

Diana finally reaches the shores of Key West on September 2, 2013, after an arduous journey. Welcomed by jubilant crowds, she delivers an inspiring speech to the press that emphasizes perseverance, chasing dreams at any age, and the importance of teamwork.