Ben Is Back

Ben Is Back is an intense and emotional drama directed by Peter Hedges, starring Julia Roberts, Lucas Hedges, and Courtney B. Vance. The movie follows the story of a mother and her son who is struggling with addiction. The film takes place over 24 hours, starting on Christmas Eve, which is when Ben (Lucas Hedges) unexpectedly returns home after being sober for 77 days.

The movie opens with Holly (Julia Roberts) preparing for Christmas, when she is surprised by the sudden return of her son Ben. At first, Holly is thrilled to see her son, but as the story unfolds, she has to come to terms with the harsh reality of his addiction. Ben's addiction has a hold on him, making him manipulative and unpredictable, as he asks for money, phone chargers, and eventually, drugs.

Throughout the movie, we see the struggle between Ben, Holly, and their family. Holly is forced to make difficult decisions as she tries to keep her son sober and safe. She struggles with the fear of losing her son, while at the same time, trying to maintain a connection with him. We see the emotional toll the addiction takes on Ben and Holly’s family, as they try to heal and move forward.

The story takes a few unexpected turns, building suspense and tension as Holly tries to protect her family and find her son. The pace of the movie is fast, as we see a glimpse of their lives in just 24-hours. The characters are well developed, and we see them evolve throughout the story.

Julia Roberts is outstanding in her role as Holly. She perfectly captures the pain, fear, love, and determination of a mother trying to save her son. Lucas Hedges, who plays Ben, also gives a superb performance, perfectly conveying the desperation and inner turmoil of a young man battling addiction. In addition, the supporting cast members including Courtney B. Vance, Kathryn Newton, and Rachel Bay Jones, all give great performances, providing insight into the complexities of addiction and its impact on family.

The movie is not just about addiction, but it’s also a story about family, forgiveness, and hope. It’s about the love and support we need to overcome our struggles. The themes of the movie are universal, making it relatable and heartfelt.

The cinematography is beautiful, capturing the cold winter landscape and intimate moments of the characters. The score is perfect, adding to the intensity of the movie.

Ben Is Back is a powerful and thought-provoking movie that deals with a serious issue that affects many families. It’s an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you drained, but also hopeful. The movie beautifully portrays the challenges and triumphs of overcoming addiction and the importance of love and support. It’s a must-see for anyone who enjoys a great drama and cares about social issues.