When a Man Loves a Woman

The film is set in a contemporary American context, reflecting late 20th-century attitudes toward addiction and family life. Scenes move between a suburban home, medical rooms, and recovery spaces, illustrating the routines of crisis, care, and healing. The period emphasizes therapy, support groups, and modern approaches to sobriety.

The story unfolds across a suburban home and clinical settings. Key locations include a hospital where Alice is treated and a rehabilitation clinic where recovery begins. These places frame the emotional arc of crisis, care, and renewal.

💊 Addiction & Recovery

Alcoholism is the central force shaping the couple's life. The film follows Alice's descent, her entry into rehab, and her painful path toward sobriety. Recovery is depicted as messy, incremental, and deeply personal, affecting her sense of self and her relationships. The story shows both the challenges of staying sober and the strength found in support systems and honest communication.

❤️ Marriage & Family

Alcoholism destabilizes the marriage and upends family dynamics. Michael assumes the caretaker role and confronts the strain of balancing work with new responsibilities. The children experience confusion and fear, while trust slowly rebuilds through shared effort. The film explores how crisis can reshape love and commitment, for better or worse.

🗣️ Communication & Boundaries

A critical thread is the need to listen versus fix. The couple's counseling sessions and group meetings highlight boundaries, autonomy, and healthy dependency. Alice's candid admission about Michael's well-meaning support reveals how love can feel controlling if not paired with listening. The film suggests that speaking openly and setting boundaries is essential to healing.