BEN

Cinemavixion Review

The 1972 horror sequel "Ben" delves into a darker, more unsettling narrative than its predecessor, "Willard." This installment, directed by Phil Karlson, focuses on the titular rat, Ben, who becomes the unlikely companion to a lonely, ailing boy named Danny. Lee Montgomery delivers a poignant performance as Danny, whose bond with Ben offers a fragile solace against his own mortality and the cruelty of his peers. However, the film masterfully escalates the tension as Ben's protective instincts, amplified by his growing swarm, lead to a chilling spiral of violence. While the film garnered a notable Oscar nomination and a respectable 60% on Rotten Tomatoes, its true strength lies in its exploration of companionship found in the most unexpected places and the terrifying consequences when that bond turns predatory. "Ben" remains a compelling, albeit grim, entry in the creature-feature genre.