Overview: In 1987, Marlee Matlin became the first Deaf actor to win an Academy Award and was thrust into the spotlight at 21 years old. Reflecting on her life in her primary language of American Sign Language, Marlee explores the complexities of what it means to be a trailblazer.
“Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” is an intimate and personal documentary that gives viewers a fuller picture of Matlin’s journey — not just as a groundbreaking actor, but as a person who has spent h...
“Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” is an intimate and personal documentary that gives viewers a fuller picture of Matlin’s journey — not just as a groundbreaking actor, but as a person who has spent her life advocating for the Deaf community. Directed by Shoshannah Stern, the film is both a tribute and a candid conversation between two Deaf women who understand each other in a way few filmmakers and subjects ever could.
Even if you are unfamiliar with the actress, Matlin’s story is interesting. Born into a hearing family, she faced isolation, abuse, and the challenges of navigating a world not built for her. She became an overnight sensation when she was just 19 years old and won an Oscar for “Children of a Lesser God.” What followed was a whirlwind of fame and trauma, from an abusive relationship with co-star William Hurt, a bout with substance abuse, push back from her own community, and a Hollywood system that often didn’t know what to do with her.
All of this would’ve made many give up, but Matlin chose instead to fight. She pushed for accessibility in the industry, helped ensure Deaf actors were cast in major projects (including the Oscar winning film “CODA”), and proved time and time again that she wasn’t going to let Hollywood define her limits.
Stern allows Matlin to tell her own story, filling her documentary with personal reflections as well as interviews from those closest to her. This makes the film feel like an intimate, heartfelt conversation rather than just a retelling of events.
“Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” is an honest, well-rounded portrait of a woman who has constantly had to prove herself. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Matlin or just looking to learn more about the Deaf community and Hollywood’s complicated history with accessibility, you’ll find this film to be informative as well as inspiring.
By: Louisa Moore / SCREEN ZEALOTS
