Academy Award winner Marlee Matlin stars in her new documentary “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” where she is not afraid to be raw and vulnerable.
In 1987, Ms. Matlin made cinematic history, where she became the first Deaf actor to win an Oscar, and was catapulted into the spotlight at the young age of 21.
In this compelling and deeply moving documentary, Matlin looks back on her life in her primary language of American Sign Language (ASL), and explores the complexities of what it means to be a trailblazer/pioneer in the contemporary entertainment landscape.
It showcases her highest highs, lowest lows, and everything in between. These include being a turbulent high-profile relationship, being ignored and patronized by Hollywood, getting sober, and pushing the envelope. It also displays Matlin’s advocacy work.
Matlin doesn’t hold anything back as she shares her unflinching yet powerful and motivational story.
Shoshannah Stern has done an exceptional job directing this movie, and thus, bringing it life.
One would never know or believe that this film marks Stern’s directorial debut. This groundbreaking film features interviews by the people that knew Marlee Matlin the best.
Ironically enough, Matlin served as an inspiration to Stern because she was inspired by Matlin to pursue a career in entertainment after she witnessed Matlin win her “Best Actress” Oscar for “Children of a Lesser God.”
Without giving too much away, “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” is a winning project that needs to be experienced by all.
The Verdict
Overall, Marlee Matlin is sublime in her new documentary “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore.” It is a raw, honest, intimate and engaging film.
It will certainly spark conversation among viewers, and there is something in it for everyone. Matlin’s vulnerability is the viewer’s reward.
Matlin is a woman that has found the means to go beyond the ordinary, and she has expanded and redefined cinematic storytelling into what it is today.
Hopefully, Matlin and Shoshannah Stern will earn an Oscar nomination for this next year for “Best Documentary Feature”… it is too good and significant to be ignored.
It is highly recommended that one checks out the poignant documentary film “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” which garners an A rating. Bravo.
