Watch An Ordinary People

An Ordinary People is a heartfelt and poignant drama that delves deep into the complexities of family dynamics, grief, and the process of healing. Directed by Robert Redford, this 1980 film tells the powerful story of the Jarretts, an upper-middle-class American family whose seemingly perfect life takes an unexpected turn. The story revolves around Conrad Jarrett, a troubled teenager grappling with survivor's guilt after the death of his beloved older brother, Buck. As the film begins, Conrad has recently been discharged from a psychiatric hospital following a suicide attempt, and he is now struggling to reintegrate into his everyday life. Feeling lost and lonely, Conrad finds solace in his sessions with Dr. Berger, a compassionate and understanding psychiatrist who guides him toward self-discovery and recovery.

At the center of An Ordinary People are the strained relationships within the Jarrett family. Conrad's mother, Beth, played by Mary Tyler Moore in a remarkable departure from her comedic roles, appears emotionally distant and consumed by her own grief. Battling to maintain the image of perfection, Beth unintentionally dismisses Conrad's pain, further driving a wedge between them. Donald Sutherland delivers a nuanced performance as Calvin Jarrett, Conrad's father, who seeks to bridge the growing divide in his family while harboring his own inner demons.

Throughout the film, we witness the Jarretts' attempt to salvage their shattered lives in the aftermath of Buck's tragic boating accident. The strain is palpable as they navigate their way through tense family dinners, awkward social encounters, and the realization that their once harmonious existence is now a mere facade. As the story unfolds, we gain insights into each family member's emotional journey, their individual struggles, and their desperate yearning for healing.

An Ordinary People remarkably captures the raw emotions of grief, guilt, anger, and despair through its superbly acted and masterfully directed scenes. The film presents an authentic portrayal of the complexities of human emotions, never shying away from the uncomfortable truth that healing is often an uphill battle. It showcases the difficulties of navigating the expectations and judgment from society, as the Jarretts must learn to cope with their own insecurities and redefine their sense of normalcy.

Redford adeptly weaves together a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking. He explores themes of guilt and blame, the burden of unexpressed emotions, and the importance of open communication within a family unit. An Ordinary People is a powerful reminder that the road to healing is seldom a linear path, and that the bonds of family can be both a source of strength and a catalyst for self-discovery.

The film's cinematography beautifully captures the suburban landscape and the ordinary moments that make up everyday life. The score, composed by the legendary Marvin Hamlisch, provides the perfect accompaniment to the emotional journey of the characters, enhancing the film's atmosphere and resonating with audiences. Through its use of strong performances, cinematic techniques, and compelling storytelling, An Ordinary People creates an immersive experience that immerses viewers in the Jarretts' world and allows them to reflect on their own experiences of love, loss, and healing.

An Ordinary People made a significant impact upon its release, garnering critical acclaim and winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Supporting Actor for Timothy Hutton's powerful performance as Conrad, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Alvin Sargent. Its success lies not only in its ability to tell a compelling story but also in how it tackles the complexities of human emotions, portraying characters that resonate long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, An Ordinary People is a profoundly moving and emotionally charged drama that explores the fragility of the human spirit and the resilience of the human heart. Through its exceptional performances, insightful storytelling, and unflinching portrayal of grief and healing, the film leaves a lasting impact, inviting viewers to reflect upon their own journeys and find solace in the knowledge that, even in the face of tragedy, ordinary people can achieve extraordinary transformations.

An Ordinary People is a 2022 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 34 minutes.