Review of Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore (1974) by Tony P — 08 Nov 2009

If it were not for Scorsese's brutal cinematography and quintessential taste for dark humor, Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore would most likely bear the heavy sentimentality of your standard romantic drama.

Alas, the high energy camera work, sound design, and editing combine to simulate the violently strennuous tone that makes this Scorsese romcom a unique gem of the genre. With Burstyn's gripping desperation, Keitel's on-screen 180, Kristofferson's easy-going charm, and Diane Ladd's brash midwestern femeninity, every performance is rich and captivating long after the viewing.

Even the work of young actors Alfred Lutter and Jodie Foster are totally impressive. Although every episode in Alice's odyssey is entertaining, it's the very genuine tug and pull between her and her son that is the glue for it all.

And aside from all of this, the introductory credit sequence/scene, with its pseudo-Wizard of Oz allure, is a work of art in its own right that perfectly addresses the tone of what is about to proceed.

A darling little picture, and a must see for Scorsese fans.