In the independent film “Frankie and Alice,” Halle Berry invites the audience on an unusual journey. In what turned out to be a 10 year struggle to bring the story of a woman with multi-personality disorder to screen, Halle Berry’s tenacity made it a reality. In the film, piece by piece Berry introduces the audience to Frankie’s world – at a pivotal juncture just as Frankie discovers that she has been living in a fractured world; for, unbeknownst to her, she has been living with a condition known as disassociative identity disorder (DID). In lesser hands, this film would have been a darker story; but due to Berry’s passion, Frankie’s story is a beautiful portrayal of self-discovery and healing.
Set in 1973, the world simply does not recognize medical conditions as rare as Frankie’s. Therefore, it is remarkable that she even encountered a doctor who could diagnose her condition, let alone one who willing to help her. By fate or remarkable coincidence, Frankie met Dr. Oz who ultimately helped her identify her different personalities and gain a measure of control over them. The journey they faced together was at times funny, comical and astounding, and at others, sad and illuminating. But the courage and determination that Frankie demonstrated revealed a strong woman who was bound to conquer her fears and live a full life.
Berry’s portrayal is mesmerizing. She shifts between the multiple personalities with ease that is simply stunning. She is a chameleon on screen. Matching her ferocious performance was co-star Stellan Skarsgard, playing the inquisitive Dr. Oz. The pairing unexpectedly works seamlessly. As Berry’s performance exceeds expectations with mercurial ease, Skarsgard’s performance charms with Dr. Oz's awe at discovering such a fascinating woman. A platonic friendship forms and they tackle the mystery of Frankie’s multiple personalities.
“Frankie and Alice” is in turns a mystery, a journey of self-discovery and an unexpected friendship. “Frankie and Alice” opens in limited release on December 17, 2010.
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