Ordinary People (HBO)

About Ordinary People

"Ordinary People" is an American drama released on HBO in 1980. The film is directed by Robert Redford and is based on a 1976 novel of the same name by Judith Guest. This emotional drama explores how an "ordinary" family from Illinois grapples with the impact of a tragic accident that left one son dead and the survivor overcome with guilt and despair. The deep exploration of family dynamics, guilt, love, and therapy makes this an incisive and potent drama.

Making / Production

Ordinary People marked the directorial debut of well-known actor Robert Redford. The film is shot in Lake Forest, Illinois, which perfectly captures the tranquil suburban life depicted in the movie. The script was adapted from Judith Guest's novel by Alvin Sargent, known for his sharp and sensitive writing.

Actors

• Donald Sutherland as Calvin Jarret - Played the gentle and understanding father who tries to maintain balance in the family amidst the unfolding drama.
• Mary Tyler Moore as Beth Jarret - Embodying the role of a socially-conscious mother struggling to accept and display affection for her surviving son.
• Timothy Hutton as Conrad Jarret - Delivered an intense and deeply moving performance as the guilt-ridden surviving son who tries to find his footing post the accident.
• Judd Hirsch as Dr. Berger - Played the empathetic psychiatrist who aids in Conrad's healing process.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This was Robert Redford's directorial debut.
• The film is based on a book of the same name by Judith Guest.
• Timothy Hutton won his first Academy Award for his role in the movie at the mere age of 20.

Awards

"Ordinary People" won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director for Robert Redford, Best Supporting Actor for Timothy Hutton, and Best Adapted Screenplay for Alvin Sargent. The film also garnered nominations in several other categories, reinforcing its critical success.

Quotes

• "Feelings are scary, and sometimes they're painful. And if you can't feel pain, then you're not going to feel anything else, either." - Dr. Berger
• "It's been a long time since we've been close. It's my fault - I drove everybody away." - Conrad Jarret
• "It's not the dress... it's the way you see me." - Beth Jarret

Music, Soundtrack

• "Pachelbel's Canon" - Used symbolically throughout the movie as a representation of the family's outward harmony.
• "Good King Wenceslas" - Appears in a pivotal scene during Christmastime.
• The haunting and memorable original score was curated by Marvin Hamlisch.