Ordinary People is a 1980 film directed by Robert Redford. The film's plot is a family drama that explores the complex dynamics within a family facing tragedy and grief. Here's a more detailed description of the plot:

Plot

The story revolves around the Jarrett family, consisting of Calvin Jarrett (played by Donald Sutherland), Beth Jarrett (played by Mary Tyler Moore), and their son Conrad (played by Timothy Hutton). The family is struck by tragedy when their older son, Buck, dies in a boating accident during a storm.

The film begins several months after the tragedy, as Conrad has been discharged from a psychiatric hospital following a suicide attempt. The family must now grapple with grief, guilt, and tensions that have strained their relationship.

Conrad tries to cope with his depression and guilt over his brother's death, while Beth strives to maintain a façade of perfection and refuses to confront family issues. Calvin is caught in the middle, trying to reconcile the two worlds and help Conrad heal.

The film explores the complex emotions and family dynamics as the family seeks a path to recovery from the tragedy.

Director: Robert Redford

Writer: Alvin Sargent (based on the novel by Judith Guest)

Producer: Ronald L. Schwary

Music: Marvin Hamlisch

Main Cast:

Donald Sutherland as Calvin Jarrett

Mary Tyler Moore as Beth Jarrett

Timothy Hutton as Conrad Jarrett

Judd Hirsch as Dr. Tyrone C. Berger

Elizabeth McGovern as Jeannine Pratt

Major Awards:

The film received extremely positive reviews from critics and won four Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director (Robert Redford).

Box Office Gross: The film grossed approximately $54 million worldwide.

Critical Reception: Ordinary People received extremely positive reviews from critics. The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of family issues and inner conflicts. The performances of the actors, especially Timothy Hutton, were widely acclaimed. The film was considered a poignant portrait of family psychology and coping with grief and loss. Robert Redford won an Oscar for his direction, and the film won the Oscar for Best Picture. Overall, it was regarded as one of the best films of the 1980s.