Based on a novel by Lisa Genova, the movie tells the story of Alice, a successful mother and wife who has built a strong career as a university linguistics professor. When Alice starts forgetting words it becomes clear that she suffers from general short term memory loss. This leads to the diagnosis of early onset Alzheimer’s Disease. The movie explores how her world changes as she struggles to remain herself while her relationships with her environment are tested by the illness.

This is not an easy topic. The story is played out without melodrama, with the view to simply share a life changing experience. It is all about Alice’s experience and viewers are brought in to what goes on in Alice’s mind. They are invited to feel what it is like to be Alice and experience the disorientation caused by the illness. It is also a story about grief and acceptance and what is important in life.

Writer/director Glatzer was himself diagnosed with a progressive disease attacking motor neurons. This was a major reason for him and his partner, Wash Westmoreland, to take on this movie – as a way also to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s.

Alice is powerfully played by Julianne Moore. The many awards and positive reviews she has received – including current frontrunner status for this year’s Best Actress Oscar – are a tribute to her stunning performance.