Academy Award–winning actor and advocate Marlee Matlin is the focus of a new feature documentary, Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore. Directed by Shoshannah Stern, the film centers American Sign Language, uses open captions throughout, and removes conventional voiceover so the story is told visually and directly in ASL. It is an intimate, stylish portrait that highlights both Matlin’s breakthroughs and the barriers she worked to dismantle.
Fast Facts
- Title: Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore
- Director: Shoshannah Stern
- Runtime: 98 minutes
- Release year: 2025
- Distributor: Kino Lorber
- Streaming: Apple TV+ (also listed via iTunes)
- Languages: English and American Sign Language
- Cast/Participants include: Marlee Matlin, Randa Haines, John Maucere, Lauren Ridloff, Aaron Sorkin, Henry Winkler, Liz Tannebaum
What the Documentary Features
ASL at the Center
The film is designed for both Deaf and hearing audiences. Interviews are conducted in ASL, presented with open captions, and there is no voiceover. This puts signed storytelling first and lets viewers follow the natural rhythm and expression of ASL.
Split-Screen Conversations and Accessible Design
Director Shoshannah Stern uses split-screen interviews that bring Deaf and hearing contributors into the same visual space. The approach, paired with clear captions and thoughtful editing, keeps the story accessible while preserving ASL’s nuance and facial grammar.
Key Voices and Perspectives
Alongside Matlin’s first-person account, the film includes collaborators and friends who help frame her impact and the evolution of Deaf representation in media. Lauren Ridloff, Aaron Sorkin, Henry Winkler, and others appear to reflect on Matlin’s career and advocacy.
Career Highs and Hard Truths
Expect a candid look at Matlin’s rapid rise after Children of a Lesser God, the pressures of being “first,” her advocacy for authentic Deaf representation, and personal challenges that shaped her. Reviews note that the film addresses painful chapters with clarity and care, while celebrating sustained leadership and community impact.
A Story That Inspires
The film dives deep into Marlee Matlin’s journey, from her breakout role in Children of a Lesser God to her decades of advocacy for Deaf culture and accessibility. It highlights the challenges she faced as a Deaf actress in Hollywood, as well as the groundbreaking progress she has helped create.
Early reviews praise the documentary for its honesty and emotional impact. Critics have called it “one of the most powerful documentaries of the year” and “a must-watch for anyone who cares about accessibility and inclusion.”
Where to Watch
Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore will be available to stream on Apple TV+ and Amazon Prime Video. Whether you are part of the Deaf community or a lifelong fan of Marlee Matlin, this documentary is a chance to better understand the importance of representation in media.
Why It Matters
Representation matters. Stories like Marlee Matlin’s remind us that accessibility is not optional—it is essential. By sharing her experiences and challenges, she opens the door for new generations of Deaf talent to see themselves on screen.
We cannot wait to watch this powerful story unfold.
Will you be tuning in?
Who directed Not Alone Anymore?
The documentary was directed by Shoshannah Stern, a Deaf actor, writer, and creator. This project marks her feature documentary directorial debut. Stern brings her deep understanding of Deaf culture and storytelling to the film, ensuring that ASL and accessibility are central to the narrative. Her perspective adds authenticity and insight to Marlee Matlin’s story.
How is ASL used in the film?
All interviews in the documentary are conducted in American Sign Language (ASL), and the film uses open captions for accessibility. There is no traditional voiceover, which allows ASL to be the main mode of storytelling. This approach ensures that both Deaf and hearing audiences can experience the narrative fully. By prioritizing visual communication, the film celebrates the expressiveness and richness of signed language.
How long is the documentary?
Not Alone Anymore has a runtime of approximately 98 minutes. This allows the film to explore Marlee Matlin’s life and career in depth, from her early breakthrough in Children of a Lesser God to her ongoing advocacy work. The pacing balances personal interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes moments. Viewers get a thorough and engaging portrait without feeling rushed.
Who appears in the film besides Marlee Matlin?
The documentary features contributions from Lauren Ridloff, Aaron Sorkin, Henry Winkler, and other collaborators who share insights about Matlin’s career and influence. These voices provide context on her impact in Hollywood and the Deaf community. Interviews highlight both personal anecdotes and professional reflections, adding depth to the story. Together, they illustrate the breadth of Matlin’s influence on entertainment and advocacy.
