My month long Martin Scorsese marathon: Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore

As a man, there have been occasions where I have had to prove that I'm an open minded movie geek by listing more female oriented films, or "chick flicks", that I've enjoyed. And I'm happy to say I can add this one to the list. This could have easily turned out like a Lifetime original movie, or an adaptation of an Oprah's book club selection. But it's smarter than that. It doesn't pander or condescend to a female demographic. And I love how the movie keeps it's sense of humor during dramatic moments, and how Ellen Burstyn gives a believable performance without resorting to overblown Oscar bait showboating.

This movie is an odd duck in the Scorsese canon, wedged between Mean Streets and Taxi Driver. But Marty's showing his range here, and he clearly has a talent for comedy, drama and stories that don't revolve around New York Italian American men. I was pleasantly surprised with this one.