Ryan proves she can be more than America's sweetheart in turn, she's vulnerable, appalling, and formidable. Both Meg Ryan and Andy Garcia are in top form. So inspiring, in fact, that one can forgive the few missteps (a few pat scenes with Alice's parents, an ending that takes place in an awkward setting, and the fact that it's somewhat long). While much of the resolution in When a Man Loves a Woman relies on the well-worn doctrine of Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon, the emotionality of that resolution is powerful and inspiring. Telling a timeless story, this film is a heartrending blend of solid writing, insightful direction, and wonderful performances, plus an all-around superior production. What's finally at stake for the Greens is the survival of their fragile relationship and the very fabric of their family. Still, their intense love for one another holds them together - until it doesn't. Each struggles to take responsibility for a share of the heartbreak each takes the proverbial two steps forward and one step back. A stint in rehab suggests that the crisis has been averted, but the deeply felt issues for each of them are far from resolved. ![]() Michael takes charge Alice is contrite and wants to get sober. After a series of troubling episodes - frightening nights when Alice forgets to come home, erratic behavior, several moments during which the children are in jeopardy, and one final devastating accident - reality can no longer be denied. Sometimes a child knew but couldn't give voice to her fear. Michael didn't see it, or didn't want to see it. Michael ( Andy Garcia) and Alice ( Meg Ryan) Green and their two little daughters are living an idyllic San Francisco life in WHEN A MAN LOVES A WOMAN until the idyll is shattered by Alice's drinking. To stay in the loop on more movies like this, you can sign up for weekly Family Movie Night emails. Given the subject matter and the intensity of the emotional journey, this is a movie only for grown-ups and mature teens. At the same time, the characters are so beautifully drawn and so accessible that they will stay with audiences long after the final credits. It elicits strong emotions, encourages in-depth understanding of self-destructive behaviors, and delivers insightful messages about personal responsibility. Occasional profanity is heard ("f-k," "s-t," "goddamn," "bastard"). One character is briefly seen in a bra, later nude from the back. Playful sexuality is part of the fabric of the couple's life together: They flirt, they kiss, and they're sensual, although there's no overt sexual activity. Disturbing scenes involve heavy drinking, out-of-control behavior, angry outbursts, and two life-threatening "accidents" that are caused by drunkenness. Because the movie honestly portrays both points of view as a husband and wife struggle to find their way together, it's poignant and complex. ![]() ![]() The film confronts the realities of substance abuse as it affects all members of one family with an alcoholic at its center. Parents need to know that When a Man Loves a Woman is an adult love story with mature themes.
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