Julia Roberts revealed that she felt personally moved when reading the script of Ben Is Back. From then on, she did not hesitate to play one of the main characters in the film by Oscar-nominated screenwriter and director Peter Hedges.
"The story is really very touching", says this movie superstar, and adds: "Peter's script presents a myriad of ways in which addiction can affect a family".
The bravest mother
Hedges confessed that Roberts has been his "favorite movie star" throughout his adult life. And that his heart "beat to the max" when it was confirmed she would put herself in the shoes of Ben's mother, the 19-year-old young man who returns home during his treatment to recover from his drug addiction.
"Julia is incredibly intelligent and moving and, afterwards, I found out that she is also one of the best prepared actresses I've worked with in my whole life", Hedges revealed.
The actress did not ask for any change in the script of Ben Is Back. Although she did express her wishes about the cast: the only condition was that in the role of Ben was Lucas Hedges, son of the director and notable rising actor. And, of course, her wish was granted with surprising results.
