Benefited

Generally well photographed and acted, 'Benefited' occasionally struggles with a fragmented narrative which harms continuity, whilst some scenes seem contrived and unrealistic, serving only to bring the central character into the situations in which the drama unfolds (potentially a budget limitation).

Nevertheless, there's a range of very strong themes expressed, and the film manages to evoke sympathy for characters who seem emotionally ill-equipped to deal with their turbulent circumstances, the consequences of their poor decision-making compounding an already bleak existence and now even more depressing outlook.

The actors handle confronting material with focus and professionalism (leading lady McCann in particular shoulders a heavy load both in-front and behind the camera), the escalation of violence extremely difficult to watch but perhaps important to tell.

An ambiguous ending, tenuous connection between the plot threads, and some occasional technical lapses (lighting, sound and framing) fortunately don't diminish the overall impact of a desperately sad tale in which there seems little optimism or hope, a vicious cycle of abuse and more deeply entrenched suffering transcending each generation. Worth a look, but be prepared.