The Way Back, starring Ben Affleck, is a movie about a man named Jack Cunningham who struggles with alcoholism, which interferes with his everyday life. After being a high school standout in basketball, Cunningham takes a job as head coach of his former high school basketball team. Throughout the movie, the viewer sees the progression of Cunningham’s change as a character. Such as when he realizes the influence he has on the students he coaches, he then develops better morals as a person. Even though he is often struggling with his usage of alcohol, he attempts to create positive relationships with his friends and family. While some scenes of the movie feel longer than they need to be, the movie does a good job maintaining an entertaining plot. The movie lacks the ability to dive into Cunningham’s days as a basketball standout, as it creates a big part of his character.

4 out of 5 stars.