Cast overview, first billed only: | |||
Joe Mantegna | ... | ||
Mia Farrow | ... | ||
William Hurt | ... | ||
June Squibb | ... |
Hilda
|
|
Marceline Hugot | ... |
Monica
|
|
|
Dylan O'Sullivan Farrow | ... |
Kate
|
|
Matthew H. Williamson | ... |
Dennis
(as Matt Williamson)
|
Julie Kavner | ... |
Decorator
|
|
|
Billy Taylor | ... |
Trainer
|
Holland Taylor | ... |
Helen
|
|
|
Michael-Vaughn Sullivan | ... |
Hairstylist
|
Robin Bartlett | ... |
Nina
|
|
Linda Wallem | ... |
Penny
|
|
|
Gina Gallagher | ... |
Joe's Daughter
|
|
Patience Moore | ... |
School Teacher
|
Alice Tate, mother of two, with a marriage of 16 years, finds herself falling for the handsome sax player, Joe. Stricken with a backache, she consults Dr. Yang, an oriental herbalist who realizes that her problems are not related to her back, but in her mind and heart. Dr. Yang's magical herbs give Alice wondrous powers, taking her out of well-established rut. Written by Carl Seiler <lcs9549@tamsun.tamu.edu>
This was the first Woody Allen film I got to see in the theaters and -- since it has such strong fantasy elements -- it was truly a magical experience. Compared to a film like "Crimes and Misdemeanors" it's a bit of a lightweight, but taken on its own terms "Alice" is an enjoyable portrait of a woman trying to find herself and her spiritual center. And there are plenty of funny moments along the way, which I wouldn't dare spoil for you. All I'll say is watch for Bob Balaban (the dead guy in "Deconstructing Harry") in the party scene late in the film.
This film also marked the first time Allen worked with the amazing Judy Davis, who would make more of an impression in "Husbands and Wives" two years later.