‘Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie’ Review – An Inspiring Tale Of Triumph Over Adversity

It seems like every other day there’s a new celebrity documentary popping up, and they all seem to follow the same tired formula of throwing together a hodgepodge of behind-the-scenes snippets, home videos, stock footage, and interviews with insiders. But wait? One that is actually different, you say? And it’s all thanks to the wizardry of filmmaker Davis Guggenheim and editor Michael Harte, who have spliced together a tapestry of seemingly unrelated bits and pieces into an utterly breathtaking film.

In his documentary Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie about the iconic performer, Guggenheim takes a unique approach that sets it apart from your typical celebrity documentary. Editor Michael Harte deserves major props for masterfully weaving together footage from Fox’s films and TV shows to match the actor’s dialogue. There are even some impressive recreations thrown in, but for the most part, it’s all Fox. One standout moment comes when he talks about his move to Beverly Hills, and the film uses its carefully curated footage to enhance his storytelling.

The documentary doesn’t follow a predictable formula and instead takes the viewer on a captivating journey through his career using a blend of TV and movie clips, voiceovers, and seamlessly integrated dramatizations that make it feel more like a gripping feature film. The dramatizations are particularly impressive, perfectly capturing the spirit of Fox’s iconic ’80s movies with spot-on set designs and costumes, right down to the furry look of Teen Wolf.

The artful curation of footage featuring Fox in this documentary has yielded a mesmerizing viewing experience. From the subtle nuances in his dialogue to the eloquence of his expressions, the clips effortlessly capture Fox’s every emotional beat. Particularly captivating is the moment we learn about his fateful encounter with his future wife, the talented actress Tracy Pollan, during her guest stint on Family Ties. The painstaking effort put into unearthing every piece of Michael J. Fox’s onscreen legacy deserves applause, for this documentary is a testament to the power of storytelling. Yet, for all its charms, the only drawback of this masterpiece is its fleeting runtime. One is left yearning for more as the minutes evaporate in a flash and the desire to delve deeper into Fox’s life and career intensifies.

As the documentary unfolds, Guggenheim intimately captures Fox’s unrelenting spirit as he navigates the physical struggles of Parkinson’s disease. The viewer is privy to heart-wrenching scenes of his body betraying him, impeding his ability to keep pace with his agile mind. Despite the convulsions and lack of control over his movements that cause him to walk with a noticeable limp, he remains resolute in his resolve. In the course of physical therapy sessions, his family and trainer are vigilant in urging him to proceed with caution, but his ever-playful spirit takes everything in stride, regaling those around him with his trademark humor as long as his body allows him to do so. The documentary unflinchingly portrays the toll that Fox’s condition takes on him, resulting in multiple injuries and bruised eyes from falls onto furniture. However, this remarkable individual remains stoic and resolute, refusing to allow his pain to define him.

Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie is a stirring testament to the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. While there are moments that tug at the heartstrings, the film is primarily an uplifting and even humorous account of Fox’s life, thanks to his innate charm and comedic talent honed through his on-screen career. The story of Fox’s rise to stardom and subsequent struggle with Parkinson’s disease is nothing short of inspiring. Despite the challenges he faces, Fox refuses to be defined by his illness. He approaches life with the same enthusiasm and humor that have endeared him to audiences across the globe. Even as Parkinson’s disease robs him of the full range of his facial expressions, Fox’s unwavering smile and infectious laughter remain constant reminders of his indomitable spirit. Watching this documentary is akin to spending time with an old friend you haven’t seen in ages, and it’s hard to say goodbye once the credits roll.

Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie will be available to stream on Apple TV+ beginning May 12, 2023. 

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHgMSR4F1Ak]