By Skylar Jones
Ben Affleck makes a valiant return to theaters on March 6 in his most recent film and highly anticipated film “The Way Back.”
“The Way Back” portrays a heartwarming and inspiring story of self-improvement and amelioration centered around a struggling basketball team. The story touches on problems of alcoholism and loss while telling an uplifting story about determination and grit, specifically in sports. Viewers are engaged and intrigued by the story throughout the entire film, and leave feeling a sense of hope and strong willpower.
The film follows the journey of Jack Cunningham, played by Ben Affleck, who takes a position as head coach of his high school basketball, who were a losing team.. Along the way, Jack faces many emotional challenges such as his alcoholism and confronting his feelings regarding the death of his son. The story also incorporates the basketball team and their rise to victory.
A vital aspect of this film is the set design, which adds another layer to the film evoking feelings of sympathy in the viewers. The story takes place in a rural, small, poverty stricken town emphasizing the struggle the characters faced, especially financially.
A minor drawback of the film is its cursing, which is present throughout the entire movie. Being in the genre of a sports film, it automatically attracts a variety of viewers, especially younger ones. However, due to its excessive use of foul language, it would be considered too inappropriate for kids.
A unique feature of the film is its location, mainly filmed on the beach and the strand. The cinematography of the film entices viewers with the upclose scenery of local Hermosa Beach coastline and pier, touching Hermosa, Manhattan and Redondo Beach residents.
Throughout the entire movie, the plot is clear to viewers, and keeps them engaged and entertained. There are a few prevalent storylines, but the most prominent one is that of recovering alcoholic Jack Cunningham. He suffers the loss of his son and is able to come to terms with it due to his passion for his team. This aspect pulls at viewer’s heart strings, and creates a different effect for all viewers.
In all, “The Way” is an uplifting film, relating to viewers with its story of growth, determination, and most of all, the victory of a struggling but improving basketball team. The film attracts a variety of viewers, and surpasses expectations with an impressive performance by Ben Affleck. If you’re in the mood for an emotional yet inspiring film, especially a sports one, “The Way Back” is a perfect choice.
“The Way Back” was released on Mar. 6, 2020 and is playing in theaters nationwide.
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