Benedict Cumberbatch Battles Inner Demons in "Eric”

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In the upcoming emotional thriller Eric,Benedict Cumberbatch takes on the role of Vincent Anderson, a successful yet troubled creator of an '80s children’s show, Good Day Sunshine.This highly anticipated series, crafted by playwright and screenwriter Abi Morgan (known for "The Hour," "The Iron Lady," and "The Split") and directed by Lucy Forbes ("This Is Going To Hurt, The End of the F***ing World"), delves deep into the interplay between physical and psychological monsters.

"Eric" is set in the gritty, tumultuous streets of 1985 New York City, a backdrop rife with addiction and civil unrest, highlighting the stark structural inequities of the time. Vincent's life takes a dramatic turn when his 9-year-old son, Edgar, played by Ivan Howe, goes missing. Consumed by guilt and self-loathing, Vincent clings to his son's drawings of a blue monster puppet named Eric, convinced that bringing this character to life on his show will somehow bring Edgar back to him.

As Vincent strives to get the puppet onto television, his mental health begins to unravel. The lines between reality and imagination blur, with Vincent starting to see the monstrous Eric invade his daily life. This descent into madness is poignantly captured in Cumberbatch's portrayal, showcasing his range and depth as an actor.

"This is a fable, drawing on magical elements of puppetry and fairy tales," says director Lucy Forbes. "It explores the monsters that hide in the darkest corners of our minds."

"Eric" promises to be a haunting and compelling series, intertwining the tangible and the imaginary to examine themes of grief, guilt, and the relentless quest for redemption. With its stellar cast and creative team, the series is set to captivate audiences and provoke deep emotional responses.

As viewers follow Vincent's journey, they'll be taken on a rollercoaster of emotions, navigating the treacherous waters of mental health and the unyielding hope of a father desperate to find his son. "Eric" is not just a story about a missing child, but a profound exploration of the human psyche, the monsters we create, and the lengths we go to in order to confront our deepest fears.