The Way Back

Synopsis: A troubled man with a formerly promising career in basketball struggles with alcoholism while coaching the basketball team at his old high school.

Movie Review:

“The Way Back” was directed by Gavin O’Connor and stars Ben Affleck who has to overcome his demons and loss to coach the basketball team at his former high school. Ben Affleck gives an emotional performance (he, himself, openly discusses his own issues with alcoholism) as the troubled coach in this film. Affleck made this character personal and he delivers a powerful performance with some really sad, depressing scenes throughout. I always love an inspiring sports movie about underdogs. The first part of the film is the predictable sports story, but it does take a realistic turn near the middle with hard life lessons to learn. The supporting cast is strong. Janina Gavankar who plays his ex-wife brought a lot of emotion to the character and you can tell by her performance that she was suffering from the effects of alcoholism in her marriage. Al Madrigal who plays Dan the assistant coach was very good as well. I was, especially impressed with all the younger actors who played the team. They were all enthusiastic, team players and determined and it showed on screen. I wished that they had more of a story, but I soon realized this was more of Ben Affleck’s redemption story. This is not a great movie and it is a little tough to watch at times with all of the tragedy. But if you like a sports movie, and if you are a fan of Ben Affleck, who elevates the film, then you will find this movie to be entertaining. I am giving “The Way Back” a 3.5 out of 5 stars.

Director: Gavin O’Connor

Cast: Ben Affleck, Janina Gavankar, Al Madrigal, Michaele Watkins, Glynn Turman, Rachael Carpani, Hayes Macarthur and Marlene Forte

Runtime: 108 minutes