Movie #96 - Ordinary People

"Some films you watch, others you feel."

*Note: In honour of the upcoming Academy Awards in February, I have decided to focus my reviews on previous Best Picture winners dating back from 1980-2007. This will showcase the range of films that were produced during my lifetime.

Ordinary People is one of those quintessential 80's dramas. A film built by a solid script, good directing, and a wonderful cast of high quality actors. Such is the case with this film, an adaptation of the novel written by Judith Guest, but more importantly - the directorial debut of Robert Redford.

Now Redford has not done many films behind the camera, but the ones he has done have all received critical acclaim. Some of the highlights on his resume are Quiz Show, The Milagro Beanfield War, and a River Runs Through It. We can probably forget The Horse Whisperer, which is defined as a chick flick, and although many fans liked The Legend of Bagger Vance - I wasn't entirely convinced. On the whole - Redford is an accomplished director, producer, and the founder of the Sundance Film Festival. Redford has established a niche in this field, especially since his rugged good looks are now starting to droop - he should join Clint Eastwood behind the camera full time.

This film is a powerful portrayal of family conflict. On the surface, life is great for the Jarrett family, but deep down, there are major problems associated with a highly dysfunctional family. The film is filled with stunning performances, which was acknowledged back in 1980 during the Academy Awards. Nominations included Mary Tyler Moore (Best Actress), Judd Hirsch (Best Supporting Actor). Winners from the film included Timothy Hutton (Best Supporting Actor) and Robert Redford (Best Director).

Not bad for first films for both Hutton and Redford. Unfortunately for Hutton, he has yet to translate this instant success to anything tangible beyond Ordinary People. He has made a number of television movies and is generally cast as a side actor in support of the lead characters - however, Hutton can no longer hold a film on his own. So technically speaking, if you wanted to see the greatest movie of Hutton's career, just find this first one.

I would've liked to see Moore win for this role. Known for her quirky roles on television, Moore plays the hated Beth Jarrett and does a convincing job in that character. In the end, you feel for both Hutton and Donald Sutherland's characters, but you have no sympathy for the pain and suffering caused by Moore in the end. Her character is the driving force of this film.

If want to be captivated by a dramatic film of the 80's, look no further than Ordinary People. Although Redford has yet to top his first effort, its good to see where his roots began as a strong director in Hollywood.