Ben Affleck, who has had his own issues with substance abuse, plays Jack Cunningham, a man hiding in a bottle to avoid dealing with a huge personal loss. The establishing scenes make if very clear that there is a deep seated problem with alcohol and as things develop you are given more details on the cause.

Affleck, never known for his dynamic range as an actor is well cast as a man that feels only pain and his monosyllabic delivery suits the character. The film gives you information at regular intervals to fill the gaps in your knowledge base. This keeps you engaged and also plots a course for your expectations.

It speaks of the film’s value, that even with those expectations firmly established, it still has the ability to veer off course and defy what has become the most common crescendo for movies of this ilk. It is less a sports movie and more a study of grief and its paralysing effect. That the redemption offered at the end is more a whisper than a shout reenforces its solid approach.

Rob Hudson
www.facebook.com/roadshow

When he is asked to coach the basketball team at his alma mater, which has fallen far since his glory days, he reluctantly accepts, surprising no one more than himself. As the boys start to come together as a team and win, Jack may have finally found a reason to confront the demons that have derailed him. But will it be enough to fill the void, heal the deep wounds of his past, and set him on the road to redemption?

Academy Award winner Ben Affleck stars in THE WAY BACK, directed by Gavin O’Connor. The film also stars Al Madrigal, Michaela Watkins, Janina Gavankar and Glynn Turman.

THE WAY BACK releases in Australia in theatres on March 5, 2020.
www.facebook.com/roadshow