Parents' Guide to

Still Alice

By S. Jhoanna Robledo, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 13+

Moore turns Alzheimer's drama into acting master class.

Movie PG-13 2014 101 minutes
Still Alice Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

Community Reviews

age 12+

Based on 5 parent reviews

age 13+

Moore pulls you in and shows you how she is forced to let go

Moore committing fully to a role, per usual. Then there is Stewart who is always a powerful force in any role she is cast. Moore captivates and her supporting cast follows her lead beautifully. A film that centers the loss of memory in a visceral and cruel way. The ability to cinematically portray the deterioration of the mind makes this film compelling and powerful.
age 12+

Honest portrayal of Alzheimer’s disease.

I watched this with a younger audience (12+) and they were riveted by this unique and deeply moving film. Julianne Moore’s strong performance draws you into her mind then we all experience loss as her character declines. A great movie for building empathy for others and perspective in life.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (5 ):
Kids say (4 ):

With utmost grace and deep empathy, Moore delivers another sensitively sketched performance -- this time of a woman on the verge of losing her memories and, in a way, her life. On this front alone, STILL ALICE is a beautiful tragedy to behold, Moore's face and body the canvas for a haunting and oh-so-human tale. To watch Alice lose her grip on the life she has known is to experience her pain and suffering and confusion. With Moore as our proxy, raw and open, we're with Alice on her perilous journey.

That said, the rest of the movie approaches the topic at somewhat of a remove. It lives in its head, not its heart. It's possible this is purposeful: Alice and her family, especially John, appear to rely on their brilliant minds more than their emotions. Still, the rest of the characters and their ensuing struggle with the diagnosis seem muted to the point of distraction. When Alice's mind and body fail her, you expect them to crumble, too. Or at least undergo a revolution themselves, quiet as it may be. It's a missed opportunity. Better to lock your gaze onto Moore, who carries the film impressively.

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