Ordinary People (1980) Review in 2025
Ordinary People is a 1980 drama film that tells the story of a family's struggle to cope with the death of their eldest son and the impact it has on their relationships.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This movie is not suitable for young children due to mature themes and some strong language.
CineReview Recommendation
This movie is highly recommended for fans of drama and family films. It's a thought-provoking and emotionally charged film that explores complex themes and features excellent performances from the cast.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film revolves around the Jarrett family, who are dealing with the aftermath of the death of their eldest son, Buck. The family's dynamics are severely affected, and the story explores the complexities of grief, guilt, and the struggle to come to terms with the loss.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is well-crafted and explores complex themes of grief, guilt, and family dynamics. The plot is engaging and keeps the viewer invested in the characters' lives.
acting9.50/10
The acting is superb. The cast delivers excellent performances, and the chemistry between the actors is palpable.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and relatable. The performances by the cast are excellent, especially Timothy Hutton, who delivers a standout performance as Conrad Jarrett.
direction9.50/10
Robert Redford's direction is superb. He brings out the best in his actors and creates a sense of realism that draws the viewer into the story.
cinematography8.00/10
The cinematography is good, but not outstanding. The use of lighting and camera angles is effective in creating a sense of atmosphere, but it's not particularly memorable.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's exploration of complex themes, excellent performances, and superb direction make it a standout film. The cinematography is good, but not outstanding.
Cons
The pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the themes and subject matter too heavy.
Notable Quotes
"I'm not a bad person, I'm just a person who's made some bad choices."
"You can't fix what's broken."
"You can't let the guilt eat you up."
