Rating of
3.5/4
Heartbreaking Presentation of a Terrible Reality
Unknown - wrote on 03/02/15
'Still Alice' carried more surprising emotional resonance than most all of the 2014 films I've seen. I wasn't expecting to be as affected on a personal level. I had genuine sympathy for all the characters, not just Alice (for obvious reasons). Everyone has praised Moore's terrific performance (rightfully so), yet most have said nothing more on the film as a whole. I think the story and direction work incredibly well enough on their own. I have never personally known anyone with Alzheimer's. But from what I know of the disease, I thought it was accurately portrayed here. It felt like I was looking in on a real family dealing with this terrible situation. All the fear, uncertainty, and heartbreak hit me like a punch to the gut. It worked it's way to that point, building upon the ever-growing symptoms until things reached the point of total loss. The final scene is perfect. The tragedy of the situation is covered in a beautifully poignant message of love. It's absolutely impossible not to be swayed by this film's real-life truth. I feel so sorry for the individuals who have this condition, and have a deep respect for their family members who stick by them through it all.
