Ordinary People (1980), Robert Redford
4/5
This is a superb film with stunning performances that far surpasses the datedness of the decor and clothing. The emotional resonance in this film is due to the great cast's performances especially Timothy Hutton as Conrad. What is great about this film, is it's lack of pretentiousness or overt agenda, rather it captures a snapshot of pain and dysfunction of this particular family. I think it would be trite to generalise and criticise the mother character's coldness (played beautifully by Mary Tyler Moore) because really it just shows one person's inability to grieve and understand their family. This film seems to have the feel of a fourth act and ends on an interesting note rather than dealing to the cliche. I was a bit disappointed by the portrayal of the psychiatrist (by Judd Hirsch), his performance is good, but the character is far too abrasive and pushy which is a representation of a bad psychiatrist which belies the apparent effectiveness of this technique in the film's portrayal. Overall an intensely emotional and excellent family drama.
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