July 11, 2013 - 16:03 AMT
1st look at Tom Hanks as Walt Disney in "Saving Mr. Banks"

Walt Disney Pictures has released first image for "Saving Mr. Banks", the upcoming movie from "The Blind Side" director John Lee Hancock. Taking place at Disneyland in 1961, the image features Tom Hanks, who makes a convincing Walt Disney with his look, and Emma Thompson, who portrays "Mary Poppins" author P.L. Travers, AceShowbiz said.

In an interview with Time, Oscar-winning Thompson reveals that Travers, who died in 1996, is "the most difficult person" she has ever played. The actress explains, "Often I play people who are controlled by some very clear guiding moral principles ... [but she] was not like that at all. She was far more chaotic and confused and morally various."

Based on true story, the movie centers on how Disney tries to persuade Travers, who feels reluctant to let him bring her beloved character, Mary Poppins, to the motion picture screen because of a personal reason. A potential awards contender, it also stars Colin Farrell, Ruth Wilson, Rachel Griffiths, Bradley Whitford, Jason Schwartzman and Paul Giamatti.

"Saving Mr. Banks" is produced by Ian Collie, Alison Owen and Philip Steuer. Slated for a limited release on December 13, the pic will extend to more screens on December 20 and face off against "Anchorman: The Legend Continues".