Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore

In 1987, Marlee Matlin made history as the first deaf person to receive an Academy Award. Rather than opening doors, however, she encountered barriers in the film industry and the daily challenge of navigating her identity in a hearing world. Directed by d/Deaf filmmaker Shoshannah Stern, the film offers an intimate glimpse at Marlee Matlin’s personal and professional journey, raising the question: what price must be paid for extraordinary success in an environment unprepared to embrace difference? Through sign language, Matlin reflects on her experiences and her gradual evolution into an activist advocating for the representation of d/Deaf and hard of hearing people. The documentary underscores just how essential communication is for human dignity.