Question 1

Why was Lucas Hedges cast as Ben despite his father directing the film?

Accepted Answer

Director Peter Hedges initially considered other actors, but Julia Roberts insisted on casting Lucas Hedges after seeing him in Manchester by the Sea (2016).

Question 2

What challenges did the production face due to its Christmas Eve setting?

Accepted Answer

A cyclonic snowstorm paralyzed roads in New York and Yonkers during filming, with Julia Roberts noting it was the harshest East Coast winter she'd experienced in 18 years.

Question 3

Which festivals was Ben Is Back an official selection for?

Accepted Answer

It was selected for the Chicago International Film Festival, Toronto International Film Festival, Vancouver International Film Festival, and Göteborg Film Festival.

Question 4

How did Lucas Hedges and Kathryn Newton prepare for their roles together?

Accepted Answer

They spent Thanksgiving as guests at Julia Roberts' home, where she entertained 22 people around the dinner table, prior to filming.

Question 5

What is the central conflict in Ben Is Back?

Accepted Answer

Ben's mother Holly is wary of his return on Christmas Eve, testing her love as she tries to keep him safe over a turbulent 24 hours where new truths emerge.

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Ben Is Back

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