Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie Christian Review
Life is unpredictable. We know that in theory, but seeing it play out in someone else’s story makes it undeniable. Michael J. Fox has lived two lives: the one that rocketed him to stardom and made him a household name, and the one that came after—one defined by resilience, humor, and an unyielding fight against Parkinson’s disease. Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie bridges these two lives with grace, humor, and a raw honesty that’s both sobering and inspiring. This is no pity party; it’s a testament to human strength, grounded in love and brimming with life’s messy, beautiful realities.
Stardom, Laughter, and the Relentless Grind
The film begins where most of us first encountered Michael J. Fox: on our screens, in roles that were so iconic they’ve become part of pop culture’s permanent DNA. Who can forget Marty McFly in Back to the Future, that charming time-traveling teenager whose smirk was as endearing as his knack for landing in trouble? Or Alex P. Keaton in Family Ties, whose sharp wit and conservative quips made him a comedic force? Fox wasn’t just a star—he was a phenomenon, a rare actor whose charisma seemed boundless.
But Still doesn’t linger too long on the golden years. It uses them as a launchpad, seamlessly weaving Fox’s vibrant past into the quieter, more challenging present. It’s nostalgic, sure, but not indulgent. Clips from his career aren’t there to glorify—they’re there to contrast, to show how a man who once sprinted across sets now takes each step with painstaking effort. The transition is sobering, but it’s also a masterclass in humility.
A Life Interrupted, Not Defined
Parkinson’s entered Fox’s life like an uninvited guest that refuses to leave. The diagnosis, coming at the peak of his career, could have ended everything. And yet, it didn’t. The brilliance of this documentary lies in how it portrays Fox’s journey—not as a fall from grace but as a transformation.
The scenes that document his daily battles with Parkinson’s are unflinching. The tremors, the stumbles, the moments where even the simplest tasks become Herculean—they’re all there. But so is the humor. Fox jokes about his condition with the kind of sharp wit that first made us fall in love with him. “You don’t die from Parkinson’s,” he quips, “you die with it.” His humor isn’t just a coping mechanism; it’s a form of rebellion, a refusal to let the disease rob him of his spirit.
For Christians, this resilience echoes the biblical call to persevere through trials. Romans 5:3-4 speaks of suffering producing perseverance, character, and hope. Fox embodies this progression, showing that even in the face of immense challenges, life can be meaningful and full of joy.
Tracy Pollan: The Quiet Hero
Every great story has a supporting cast, and in Fox’s life, that role belongs to his wife, Tracy Pollan. The film doesn’t shy away from showing the strain Parkinson’s has placed on their marriage. But what stands out is the unwavering devotion Pollan shows her husband.
Their love story is one of quiet strength and enduring commitment. Pollan’s presence is a reminder of the vows spoken in marriage: to love in sickness and health, for better or worse. Her support isn’t flashy or dramatic; it’s steady, faithful, and deeply moving.
This portrayal of marital love is a rare gem in modern storytelling. It reflects the Christian ideal of sacrificial love—a love that is patient, kind, and enduring (1 Corinthians 13:4-7). Pollan’s role in Fox’s journey is a testament to the power of partnership, a reminder that we are not meant to face life’s battles alone.
Humor Amid Hardship
One of the most remarkable aspects of Still is its tone. Documentaries about illness often lean heavily on pathos, aiming to tug at your heartstrings until there’s nothing left to pull. But Still takes a different approach. It’s funny—often laugh-out-loud funny.
Fox’s wit is razor-sharp, and his ability to laugh at himself is disarming. This humor doesn’t diminish the seriousness of his condition; instead, it humanizes it. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, laughter can be a form of light.
For a Christian audience, this humor is a beautiful reflection of the joy that comes from faith. Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” Fox’s humor, while not overtly religious, embodies this principle. It’s a choice to focus on what brings joy, even when life feels overwhelming.
Advocacy and Purpose
Fox’s work in Parkinson’s advocacy is a central theme of the film. Through his foundation, he has raised millions for research, becoming a beacon of hope for others living with the disease. The film doesn’t portray him as a saint—Fox is refreshingly candid about his flaws—but it does highlight his determination to make a difference.
This advocacy is a powerful reminder of the Christian call to serve others. 1 Peter 4:10 urges us to use our gifts to serve, and Fox has done exactly that. His foundation is not just a legacy; it’s a lifeline for countless individuals and families affected by Parkinson’s.
Nostalgia Without Sentimentality
The film masterfully balances nostalgia with reality. For those who grew up watching Fox’s movies and TV shows, there’s a sense of warmth and familiarity. But Still doesn’t dwell in the past. Instead, it uses it as a lens to view the present.
This approach prevents the film from becoming overly sentimental. It’s not about clinging to what was but celebrating what is—finding joy and purpose in the here and now.
A Christian Perspective
From a Christian perspective, Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie is a story of hope, resilience, and the power of love. It’s a reminder that our worth is not determined by our abilities but by our identity as children of God.
Fox’s journey is a testament to the strength that comes from perseverance. His humor and optimism reflect a faith in life’s goodness, even when circumstances are far from ideal. His relationship with his wife mirrors the sacrificial love Christ calls us to embody. And his advocacy work is a powerful example of using one’s platform for the greater good.
Final Thoughts
Still: A Michael J. Fox Movie is more than a documentary—it’s an invitation to reflect on what it means to live well. It’s a story of a man who has faced unimaginable challenges with grace, humor, and an unyielding spirit. For Christians, it’s a reminder of the hope and strength that come from perseverance, community, and love.
Rating: 9/10
This film is a masterful blend of humor, heart, and inspiration. It’s a must-watch for anyone seeking a story that uplifts and challenges in equal measure.
