DVD Review: The Boys Are Back

The Boys Are Back
Written by: Allan Cubitt based on the memoirs by Simon Carr
Directed by: Scott Hicks
Starring: Clive Owen, Emma Booth, Laura Fraser, George Mackay and Nicholas McAnulty

Special Features: The Boys Are Back - A Photographic Journey with optional commentary from director Scott Hicks, A Father and Two Sons, On Set

From the box:

Clive Owen delivers a critically acclaimed performance in The Boys Are Back, the heartwarming and uplifting drama about a man who is suddenly thrust into the role of single parent. Successful sportswriter Joe Warr (Owen) finds himself completely unprepared to raise his rambunctious 6-year-old son Artie - and juggle the challenges of a demanding job, running a household and the possibility of romance. Determined to bring joy back into their lives he develops a revolutionary approach to parenting - no rules, no chores. It's a home filled with love and chaos - and then Joe's estranged teenage son comes for a visit. Inspired by a true story and filled with emotional honesty, this poignant film will touch your heart and lift your spirits.

The Boys Are Back is a touching film about love, loss, grief, and coming to terms with these these feelings. Clive Owen delivers a wonderful performance as Joe Warr, a newly single father dealing with the loss of his wife and the sudden responsibilities that come with being a single father.

The movie isn't the most original movie around, in fact when I saw the trailer I thought it was going to be a retread of the John Cusack drama Grace Is Gone. It isn't.

The cast is great for the most part if at times a little annoying. It's the story that really grabs you. It's an honest and deeply emotional film that has some saccharine bits to it but over all you'll come away pleased and dabbing your eyes a bit.

The soundtrack is phenomenal. The film features music from Sigur Ros and the songs compliment the film wonderfully.

The DVD is pretty light on special features having only two featurettes. There are no deleted scenes, no trailer, nothing else in the way of supplemental material that would enrich the experience of the film.

Besides that the film really is worth a watch. It's not the most unique story ever told, but it tells it extremely well with a cast that elevates it beyond just another drama.

The Boys Are Back is available now on DVD.