Alice Adams

Synopsis

Alice Adams, a charming romantic drama from 1935 directed by George Stevens, showcases Katharine Hepburn in the titular role of a young woman from a lower-middle-class family striving to gain acceptance in high society. Set in a small town, Alice is a hopeful dreamer who yearns for social mobility and love. With her mother’s aspirations and her father’s disapproval weighing on her, Alice navigates the complexities of romance and class distinction. She finds herself drawn to the wealthy Ronald Frost, played by Fred MacMurray, and embarks on an emotionally charged journey of self-discovery, as she grapples with her own identity amidst societal pressures. The film beautifully captures the intricacies of human relationships and the struggle for belonging, all wrapped in Hepburn's captivating performance. As Alice’s dreams unfold and collide with reality, audiences are treated to a timeless tale of aspiration, love, and the bittersweet nature of social climbing.

Cast

• 

  Katharine Hepburn

  Alice Adams

• 

  Fred MacMurray

  Arthur Russell

• 

  Fred Stone

  Virgil Adams

• 

  Evelyn Venable

  Mildred 'Georgette' Palmer

• 

  Frank Albertson

  Walter Adams

• 

  Ann Shoemaker

  Mrs. Adams

Reviews

Alice Adams received generally favorable reviews upon its release, with critics praising Hepburn's performance and the film's visual charm. The film holds a respectable 89% on Rotten Tomatoes, which is indicative of its warm reception. Critics have noted that Hepburn's portrayal of Alice is both relatable and poignant. The New York Times described her performance as 'vibrant and enchanting,' praising the way she embodied the character's delicate balance of vulnerability and determination. On IMDb, the film has a rating of 6.9/10, reflecting its status as a classic but not without its critiques. Some viewers suggested that the story's exploration of class struggles felt dated, while others appreciated the film's commentary on social aspirations. Metacritic gave it a score of 76, indicating generally favorable reviews. Overall, the film resonates with audiences who value character depth, and those who appreciate Hepburn's legendary on-screen presence appreciate the enduring themes of ambition and romance that Alice Adams beautifully explores.