(7 out of 10)
dir. Martin Scorsese
Should You See This Film?
This is what a successful indepedent film looks like (even though this was made 20 years before we heard the term): the production values and filmmaking may be a bit rough, but you have a good story, good acting and a director that shows promise. In other words, it's not a perfect movie. I think the acting and story would appeal to many people here, at least one some level. (I would recommend this confidently to Mitchell, Penny and Grace). For those of you who need more convincing, read on.
If you like watching a good drama focusing on a woman finding her self and the strength to make it on her own, this is a film for you. Add to that a smart-mouthed ten year-old son that she has to raise on her own, various men that come into her life, and you’ve got the general plot of the film. I know the plot may not appeal to some, but plot is not so important because of the good acting and writing.
Like other Scorsese films, there are violent episodes, but, unlike many of his films, there are also humorous (some slapstick) and touching moments as well. Scorsese incorporates these different emotions and moods in a way that feels real and natural. Again, the actors and screenwriter deserve a lot of credit for this.
In a way, this film could easily play on Lifetime Network—and I would strongly recommend the film to fans of that channel. But I also believe the quality of filmmaking is higher than almost anything you would see on that channel. This is not a soap-opera, nor a female fantasy, but a quality drama that is both real and entertaining.
Part of the reason I liked this film so much was that it was a surprise. (I won’t say in what way, but on the second viewing, I didn’t like it as much as the first time.)
If you liked films like Ruby in Paradise, I think you would like this.
Personal Comments
This is one of those low budget films that I liked because it went against some of my expectations. I expected something darker and more violent. The clip I had seen of the movie was the one where Alice is yelling at her son to write down all of his problems. I thought this would be another Scorsese examination of the dark side of American life. While there are some dark moments, there are also some lighter and even warm moments in the film.
When you think of Scorsese’s films, this one doesn’t come to mind, but maybe it should. Perhaps, the film doesn’t have the intensity or camera work of Taxi Driver or Raging Bull. The camera work and directing seem a little rough, although that may add to the atmosphere of the film. In any event, mainstream audiences may find this the most enjoyable Scorsese film. Ellen Burstyn, as Alice, is the big reason for that, although Diane Ladd was terrific as Flo and (the kid) who played Tommy was also great. Screenwriter, Robert Getchell should also be given credit, too.
The dialogue between Alice and Tommy are funny and warm without being cheesy or cheap.
I especially liked the friendship that developed between Flo and Alice. At first, Alice doesn’t like Flo, but later they develop a bond. The conversation between the two after Alice breaks up with David (Kris Kristofferson) is both poignant, funny and warm. I think Ellen Burstyn, Diane Ladd and the screenwriter deserved at least Academy Award nominations for this film.
I liked the gradual transformation of Alice. I liked the way Scorsese used relationships with three different men to show this progression, too. The first husband was cold, violent and unable to meet Alice’s physical and emotional needs. The next man was a charmer who met her physical needs, but had a violent temperment under that charm. The third man is the one who seems to have what Alice needs. Interestingly, the man does display some violence, but (at least from my pov) the violence—spanking her son—seems totally appropriate.
I liked the way the filmmakers portray Alice as someone who wants a man, but at the same time struggles to find herself. This is expressed beautifully in a scene between Flo and Alice in the bathroom (probably my favorite in the film).
I have always wanted to see this film, and this review makes me want even more to see it.
As an adult looking back on TV shows I loved as a kid, I sometimes am ashamed of what I thought was entertaining or funny (Three's Company or Diff'rent Strokes, anyone?). Sometimes, I am reminded of how idiotic Alice could be, but then I remember how very well Linda Lavin played the title character and I take some comfort in knowing that some shows I liked did some pretty good things.
At its best, the TV show inspired by this film was a character study, and that's my cuppa tea.
I'm moving this one to the top of my list.
Posted by: Mitchell at November 9, 2004 06:09 PMI think you will like the film, Mitchell. Let me know what you think.
Posted by: Reid at November 9, 2004 08:16 PM