Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore

In 1987, at the young age of 21, Marlee Matlin broke the mold by becoming the first deaf actress to win an Oscar for her role in Children of a Lesser God. Suddenly in the limelight, she took on the challenge of an industry unprepared for her extraordinary talent, carving out a role not just as an actress, but also as a writer and advocate. Marlee Matlin's remarkable journey didn't stop there; she went on to star in acclaimed shows like The West Wing and the Oscar-winning film CODA, all while pushing for more inclusivity and accessibility in Hollywood and beyond. In this documentary, Marlee shares her ups and downs: her rapid rise to stardom, the hurdles of working in a hearing-dominated industry, the heartache from a stormy relationship with well-known figures, her journey back to sobriety, and the years she felt overlooked in Hollywood, alongside her many victories. Director Shoshannah Stern brings a fresh take to documentary filmmaking by centering the story around ASL, ditching traditional voiceovers for subtitles, and crafting a genuine and visually engaging experience. The film uses split-screen interviews with both deaf and hearing participants to tell a moving and uplifting story of Matlin's iconic career, showcasing her relentless battle for inclusion and representation in an entertainment industry that initially had no room for her.