Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore

In 1947, Alice, an 8-year-old girl, dreams of becoming a singer while living on a farm near Monterey, California. The film opens with vivid imagery that reflects the excitement and possibilities of her childhood ambitions.

Fast forward to 1974, where we find Alice as an adult in Soccoro, New Mexico. She is now a witty and bright woman, managing the challenges of her life, including a strained marriage and a mischievous son.

Alice's life takes a sudden turn when she receives tragic news about her husband's death in a work-related accident. This heartbreaking moment is a catalyst for Alice to reevaluate her aspirations and future.

Following her husband's death, Alice decides to pursue her passion for singing while preparing to move. Along with her son Tommy, she embarks on a journey towards Monterey, stopping in Phoenix to seek a job.

In Phoenix, Alice faces challenges while trying to secure a job singing in a bar. After a difficult initial encounter with the bar owner, her resilience pays off when she finally manages to land a job.

During her time working in the bar, Alice meets the charming Ben. Despite her son Tommy's discomfort about their situation, Alice is determined to embrace this new chapter in their lives.

Alice's life takes a dramatic turn when a stranger arrives at their motel, revealing herself to be Ben's wife. This unexpected confrontation forces Alice and Tommy to quickly leave the scene to ensure their safety.

Alice then finds work as a waitress at Mel and Ruby's Cafe in Tucson. The diner is lively and chaotic, and she must adapt to the fast-paced environment while interacting with a variety of colorful characters.

At the cafe, Alice forges a friendship with Flo, a brash waitress. They bond over their struggles as single parents, finding camaraderie amidst their financial challenges and shared experiences.

Alice develops a romantic relationship with David, a regular customer at the cafe. Tommy begins to see David as a father figure, but their relationship is tested during a birthday celebration that leads to conflict between them.

During the conflict at David's ranch, Alice feels overwhelmed and frustrated, leading her to make the difficult decision to drop Tommy off by the roadside. This moment showcases the tension in her life as a single mother.

Alice receives distressing news that Tommy has been caught for underage drinking. This incident adds to her feelings of inadequacy and pressure as she struggles to manage her responsibilities as a parent.

After a difficult day at work, an intervention from Flo leads Alice to a moment of self-reflection. She comes to a realization about her dependency on men and begins to reassess her approach to life and relationships.

Alice and David work through their differences in a public setting, showcasing their growth as individuals and as a couple. Tommy expresses that he's content with the changes, hinting at acceptance of their new life.

As they pass a hotel bearing Monterey's name, the family experiences a moment of shared hope for their future. This symbolizes their journey and the possibilities that lie ahead, moving forward together.