REVIEW: 'Ben Is Back'

The drama starring Julia Roberts and Lucas Hedges is in cinemas today

Ben Is Back gives Roberts one of the finest roles of her career as Holly Burns, a mother with unfailing love for (and hope in) her drug-addicted son, 19-year-old Ben (Manchester by the Sea’s Hedges). Watch the trailer below.

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Taking place over 24 frigid hours at Christmas in upstate New York, the film – written and directed by Hedges’ dad, Peter – veers from family drama to nervy thriller as Ben returns home unexpectedly and upends his mum’s life (drug dealers from the past come knocking). Fresh from her terrific work in Amazon Prime series Homecoming, Roberts delivers an emotionally raw performance.

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Holly’s dawning realisation of the horrors of Ben’s former life is heartbreaking to watch, but this gives way to a growing ferocity as she resolves to keep her son safe. The actress is fully matched by her co-star. With Ben and Boy Erased released recently, this young actor has had a remarkable few months. (Out now) 4 stars

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