Watch Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore

Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore is a 1974 drama film directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Ellen Burstyn, Kris Kristofferson, and Mia Bendixsen. The movie tells the story of Alice Hyatt, a recently widowed mother who embarks on a journey to find herself and achieve her dreams. Set in the early 1970s, the film follows Alice Hyatt, a housewife who has spent her entire life living according to her husband's expectations. When her husband is killed in a car accident, Alice finds herself lost and alone, with no clear direction in life. Determined to start a new life and achieve her dreams of becoming a singer, Alice sets out on a road trip to Monterey, California with her young son Tommy.

During her journey, Alice encounters a series of challenges and setbacks, from being cheated by a con artist to not being able to find work as a singer. However, she refuses to give up and instead finds solace in the kindness of strangers, particularly a rancher named David, played by Kris Kristofferson. As Alice continues on her journey, she begins to realize that her true strength lies within herself and that she can achieve anything she sets her mind to.

The film is anchored by an outstanding performance by Ellen Burstyn, who won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Alice. Burstyn's portrayal of a woman struggling to find her place in the world is both raw and authentic, capturing the pain, fear, and hope that so many women experience in their lives. Kris Kristofferson is also excellent as David, bringing a quiet confidence and rugged charm to his role.

In addition to Burstyn and Kristofferson, the film features a strong supporting cast, including Mia Bendixsen as Tommy, Alice's precocious and endearing son, and Diane Ladd as Flo, a brash, no-nonsense waitress who becomes Alice's friend and confidante. Their interactions, along with Alice's encounters with a variety of colorful characters during her journey, provide the film with its rich texture and warmth.

Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore also benefits from Martin Scorsese's direction, which is both sensitive and insightful. Scorsese brings a humanity and empathy to the film, allowing Alice's story to unfold organically and empathetically. At the same time, he manages to infuse the film with moments of humor and whimsy, balancing the drama with lightness and joy.

The film's themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and female empowerment are still relevant today and have resonated with audiences for decades. Alice's journey, while specific to her own experiences and challenges, speaks to universal truths about the human condition and the power of perseverance.

In conclusion, Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant drama that features a stunning performance by Ellen Burstyn and strong supporting cast. Martin Scorsese's direction is sensitive and insightful, and the film's themes of personal growth and empowerment remain relevant today. Alice's journey is one that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll, a testament to the film's enduring power and storytelling prowess.

Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore is a 1974 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 52 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 78.