STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie takes us on a journey through the life of one of the most iconic figures of the 1980s. Michael J. Fox was as big as it gets, from starring on hit sitcoms like Family Ties and Spin City to blockbusters like Back to the Future. Fox’s life changed forever though when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at 29. However, Fox didn’t let that put his life on hold and continues to be active during his daily life.
The Plot
STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie follows the life and career of Michael J. Fox, from his childhood into adulthood and his career before and after his Parkinson’s diagnosis. Fox narrates his life story while also being interviewed and having his daily life filmed. The flashbacks of moments in his life are portrayed both with clips from Fox’s films/series, as well as actors portraying moments in his life and members of his family.
Also Read: Star Wars: Visions, Volume 2 Review: Second Season Steps Up
The Critique
I thought this was an absolutely brilliant documentary. Michael J. Fox has always been a favorite actor of mine for many reasons. I’ve always found him relatable as someone who was successful while looking younger and being on the shorter side. I also love Back to the Future and his role as Marty McFly. I’m also a big fan of his voice-acting work as Milo Thatch in Atlantis: The Lost Empire and the title character in Stuart Little.
I thought the way that the documentary was filmed was fantastic. It was both fascinating and a little sad to see how much Parkinson’s has affected Michael J. Fox, but he doesn’t want pity from anyone because of it. I think that shows how incredible his spirit is and he’s surrounded himself with people who love and support him for who he is. Seeing him interact with his wife and children was truly special to watch as a husband and father.
The film also opened my eyes to how big Michael J. Fox was during the 80s and 90s. I never realized Back to the Future and Teen Wolf were in theaters at the same time. I also never realized how iconic his role as Alex P. Keaton on Family Ties was for him, as well as being the reason he met his amazing wife, Tracy Pollan. It also explored his struggle with alcoholism during the early years of his career, which I’m sure isn’t easy to discuss but I commend his honesty about it.
In Conclusion
Overall, I would absolutely recommend watching STILL: A Michael J. Fox Movie when it arrives on Apple TV+ on Friday, May 12th. I’m glad that this film exists and serves as a time capsule for Fox’s incredible life. The work that The Michael J. Fox Foundation has done for Parkinson’s research is unbelievable as well; it has raised over $1 billion dollars to date. Fox and Parkinson’s will forever be linked together and Fox would tell you himself that isn’t a bad thing. He will forever be a Hollywood icon and the legacy of films and series he will one day leave behind is something truly special and inspiring for anyone who faces adversity in their life.
Rating: 10/10
Follow us for more entertainment coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.
