Frankie & Alice

In 1957, in Savannah, Georgia, a pivotal car accident occurs involving a young girl. This tragic event sets the tone for the complex journey that unfolds in the life of Francine L. Murdoch.

Fast forward to 1978, Frankie is now living in Los Angeles, California, where she finds herself working as a stripper. This lifestyle puts her in a vulnerable position, leading to an unsettling incident that changes her life.

After the disturbing incident at the strip club, Frankie is admitted to Pearce Psychiatric Hospital. This marks the beginning of her treatment journey and a new chapter in her life.

At the hospital, Frankie meets Dr. Joseph Oswald, affectionately referred to as Dr. Oz. Their therapeutic relationship becomes central to her treatment as he seeks to understand her complex personality disorder.

Dr. Oz diagnoses Frankie with three distinct personalities, revealing the depth of her struggles. This diagnosis helps set the groundwork for her treatment and self-discovery.

The first personality identified is Francine L. Murdoch, a 32-year-old Black female with a high IQ. This persona reflects Frankie's core self, representing her intelligence and socio-cultural complexities.

The second personality, Alice, is revealed to be a White female of unknown age with an average IQ. Alice's presence challenges Frankie's understanding of herself and highlights the diversity within her psyche.

The final personality, Genius, is introduced as a gifted Black girl aged 8 to 12. Genius demonstrates exceptional intelligence, symbolizing Frankie's untapped potential and resilience.

As the story progresses, viewers witness the evolving therapeutic relationship between Frankie and Dr. Oz. Their bond exemplifies the challenges and successes in navigating her multiple identities.

Through consistent therapy sessions, Frankie begins to confront and integrate her personalities. This journey towards healing is marked by both struggle and resilience as she works to reclaim her identity.

The film culminates in a poignant moment where Frankie emerges from her struggles. She is now equipped to manage her condition and embraces a new direction in life as a high school teacher.

In her new chapter, Frankie finds love and marries another psychiatrist, symbolizing her growth and stability after years of turmoil. This relationship signifies her ability to foster healthy connections.

The film concludes with a tribute to Dr. Oz, who supported Frankie throughout her journey until his passing in 2001. His dedication and compassion played a crucial role in her recovery.