‘The Way Back’ Review: Ben Affleck Returns To Form Playing An Alcoholic Coach In Movie That Hits Close To Home

you get the feeling its star Ben Affleck very much wanted it to. Playing a husband and father whose family is hit by tragedy and who descends into alcohol and denial as a way out of that pain, Affleck gives his best and most authentic performance in years, a real return to his full potential as an actor. And with a movie that reflects perhaps some of his own recent battles with drinking and rehab, as well as the breakup of a marriage, he clearly is bringing some personal experience to the role.

One day out of the blue he gets an offer from his alma mater to take over as coach of the very team on which he once starred. He is determined to turn it down, but finally after a night of binging on one beer after another agrees to do it. In no time, and in pure underdog,like fashion, he has whipped this ragtag team into the kind of shape where they are winning for the first time since Jack himself was the star player.

This is very much an R-rated movie, not only for the heavy dramatics of its subject matter but also for the language Jack can’t help spewing at his team as they are in the heat of a game, a habit the Catholic high school officials wish he could break. But that’s the least of his problems. Affleck is terrific in a demanding role that doesn’t try to play off his own history, but one which probably benefits from it in an odd way. He reaches deep into the psyche of a guy who doesn’t know when to stop and is in complete denial. That we have such empathy for his plight is also a tribute to the three-dimensional portrayal Affleck delivers. Props also to a fine supporting cast including Michaela Watkins as his sister, and Janina Gavankar as his ex.

Producers are Jennifer Todd, Gordon Gray, Ravi D. Mehta and O’Connor. Warner Bros will release it on Friday. Check out my video review above with scenes from the film.and keep your inbox happy.

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Ben Affleck Had 'Sober Liaison' For Rehab Commitments While Filming The Way BackAffleck completed a 40-day stint in a facility treating alcoholism in October 2018, which coincided with the filming of the movie, and production was well aware of the actor's situation. TooFab You too a 🕳. What’s with those deputies taking pics of Kobe’s accident. Rude lapd TooFab Good for him nothing wrong with trying to get better. TooFab Your gotta go back again and again and again......... Leo the lion!!!!
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