Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore

Strong performances carry this early Martin Scorsese movie, starring Ellen Burstyn as a widow who travels the American Midwest with her young son, eventually settling in Monterrey where she seeks a career as a singer.

Burstyn herself had a lot of creative control over the film, and won an Oscar for her performance, while Diane Ladd and Robert Getchell's script were also nominated. Quite surprisingly, it was named Best Film of 1974 by BAFTA. I'd probably have it in the top 10, but it certainly isn't a better movie than Chinatown or The Godfather part II from the same year. It is quite representative of the year it was released, and Scorsese has proved in years since which stories and themes better suit his directorial style.

7/10