Kino Lorber has acquired the documentary film “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” which will make its New York premiere at the Tribeca Festival in June. This new film produced by American Masters Pictures/PBS and Actual Films captures the extraordinary journey of Marlee Matlin. At the age of 21, she became the first deaf actor to win an Oscar with her performance in ‘Children Of A Lesser God’ (1987).
“Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” offers a unique storytelling approach by presenting the narrative through American Sign Language. The film avoids typical voice-overs on purpose. Instead, it relies on open captions, producing a strikingly immersive experience that is deeply felt by deaf and hearing audiences alike. The theatrical trailer tells Matlin’s story, illuminating her trajectory of success in the film industry and her ongoing fight for advocacy for the deaf community.
It’s an exciting development as the documentary represents a historic first — feature directorial debut for Shoshannah Stern. Stern, who has collaborated with Matlin on various projects, brings a personal touch to the storytelling, ensuring that Matlin’s voice and experiences take center stage.
The film was supported by ITVS Open Call funding, and is presented by Impact Partners. This exhibition shines an illuminating light on the adversity—and success—that has followed Matlin for decades. Beyond all of that, it is a testament to her long-term impact in the entertainment industry.
“First times are always important and they stay with us for the rest of our lives.”- Frequent Cannes filmmaker
“Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore” will be released theatrically by Kino Lorber on June 20, following its premiere at the Tribeca Festival. Alongside its theatrical run, the film will be widely available in digital, educational and home video formats. Specialty streaming service Kanopy will be the film’s official library and educational streaming partner.
Matlin and Stern will be on hand for the Tribeca premiere. Their inclusion speaks to their commitment to bringing this incredible story to an even larger audience. The production tells Matlin’s story with equal parts passion and reverence. It seeks to inform people on the proper representation of deaf people in film and television.