Review: Ordinary People (1980)

Ordinary People, directed by Robert Redford in his directorial debut, is a film that resonates with anyone who appreciates a powerful drama. The movie, based on the novel by Judith Guest, offers a deep exploration of family dynamics and personal healing. It's one of those films that can easily find its way into the heart of any serious film collector, thanks to its honest storytelling and emotion-filled performances.

Plot Summary

Set in the suburbs of Chicago, Ordinary People follows the Jarrett family as they grapple with the aftermath of a tragic accident. Conrad Jarrett, a high school student, survives a boating accident that killed his older brother. The film opens with Conrad's return home from a psychiatric hospital after a suicide attempt. As the family navigates their new reality, tensions rise between Conrad and his mother, Beth, who struggles to connect with him emotionally. Meanwhile, his father, Calvin, attempts to hold the family together while also dealing with his own grief. Without giving too much away, the film is an intimate look at how each family member copes with loss and the journey towards healing.

Performances

The performances in Ordinary People are nothing short of exceptional. Timothy Hutton, in his breakout role as Conrad, delivers a raw and authentic portrayal of a teenager burdened with guilt and depression. His performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and it's easy to see why. Hutton captures the nuances of Conrad's internal struggle with an honesty that's both heartbreaking and uplifting.

Mary Tyler Moore, known for her comedic roles, takes on a more serious character as Beth Jarrett. Her portrayal of a mother who is emotionally distant and struggling with her own grief is both chilling and poignant. Moore's performance adds depth to the film, highlighting the complexity of her character's relationship with her son.

Donald Sutherland, as Calvin Jarrett, provides a sensitive and compassionate counterbalance to Moore's character. Sutherland's portrayal of a father caught between his wife and son is deeply moving. His performance brings a sense of warmth and vulnerability to the film, making the audience root for him as he tries to mend his fractured family.

Judd Hirsch also deserves mention for his role as Dr. Berger, Conrad's psychiatrist. Hirsch's portrayal of a caring and insightful therapist helps ground the film, offering moments of hope and understanding as Conrad works through his emotional turmoil.

Direction and Craft

Robert Redford's direction is a key component in the film's success. He approaches the material with a sensitivity that allows the story to unfold naturally. Redford's ability to draw such powerful performances from his cast is a reflection to his skill behind the camera. He creates an atmosphere that feels both intimate and authentic, making the audience feel like a part of the Jarrett family's world.

The screenplay, adapted by Alvin Sargent, stays true to the source material while bringing the characters' emotions to life on screen. The dialogue is sharp and poignant, capturing the essence of each character's struggle.

From a technical standpoint, the film is well-crafted. The cinematography by John Bailey is subtle yet effective, capturing the suburban setting with a sense of realism that complements the film's tone. The score by Marvin Hamlisch adds an emotional layer to the narrative, enhancing the film's poignant moments without overpowering them.

Collector's Verdict

Ordinary People is a must-have for collectors who appreciate powerful dramas. The film's emotional depth and stellar performances make it a noteworthy addition to any collection. The Blu-ray edition is the best format to own, offering excellent picture and sound quality that enhances the viewing experience. While it may not be the most common title on the market, it's not too difficult to find with a bit of searching. The Blu-ray release also includes some insightful bonus features, such as interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, which provide additional context and depth to the film.

In conclusion, Ordinary People remains a poignant and powerful film that deserves a place on your shelf. Its exploration of family and healing resonates just as strongly today as it did when it first premiered, making it a classic piece of cinema history.

Star Rating: 4.5/5