SXSW2023: Spotlight Documentary ‘Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie’

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AUSTIN, TX – Michael J. Fox is an entertainment treasure, and given what has happened to him through his fight and advocacy for Parkinson’s Disease, he damn well could be qualified as an international treasure. Fox made an appearance at the SXSW Film & TV Festival on behalf of his new documentary “Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie.”

The film incorporates documentary, archival and scripted elements, recounting Fox’s extraordinary story in his own words - the improbable tale of an undersized kid from a Canada who rose to the heights of stardom in 1980s Hollywood. The account of Fox’s public life … full of nostalgic thrills and cinematic gloss … unspools with his private journey, including the years that followed his diagnosis with Parkinson’s Disease. The film chronicles Fox’s personal and professional triumphs and travails, and explores what happens when an incurable optimist confronts an incurable disease.

Michael J. Fox Appears at SXSW, with ‘Still’ Director Davis Guggenheim
Photo credit: Patrick McDonald for HollywoodChicago.com

CAPSULE REVIEW: The process approach to the documentary was bold, and it was also so uplifting and entertaining that it absolutely qualifies as “A Michael J. Fox Movie.” What was particular effective is when director Davis Guggenheim, with his editor Michael Harte, intercut the miles of clip history to create the MJF man in motion. This creative approach gives Fox the narrative that makes sense, and the recognition that he deserves.

By PATRICK McDONALD Editor and Film Critic/Writer HollywoodChicago.com pat@hollywoodchicago.com