Review of Ordinary People (1980) by Alan M — 30 Aug 2009

'Ordinary People' is a tender drama eloquently expressing the emotional turmoil experienced by an affluent family united in tragedy but divided by their conflicting methods of dealing with it.

The poignant story is delicately handled by acting legend Robert Redford in his directorial debut, sensitively exploring a fractured family dynamic, stemming from bitterness and simmering resentment.

The deliberately paced direction and editing, laced with an understated music score, project a serenity which obscures the potent emotions. This is indicative of the genteel façade of the upper-middle classes, where unspoken problems manifest beneath the surface until cracks appear in their apparently idyllic existence.

Timothy Hutton is a revelation in his big screen debut, delivering a remarkably nuanced performance as the traumatised son, painfully seeking clarity in the turbulent aftermath of his elder brother's death. He is swept away by a sea of violent emotion, battered by waves of anger and guilt as he reaches out for the love and forgiveness of his stern mother, to temper the waves with her assurances.

Mary Tyler Moore is coldly effective as the strangely aloof mother, who starves her son of affection, more concerned with idle gossip tarnishing her reputation amongst her peers. Moore skilfully conveys the internal struggle of her character and the void left by the maternal love, lost with the life of her beloved first born son.

Donald Sutherland gives a heartfelt performance as the compassionate husband and father, who helplessly witnesses the breakdown of his family. He sways us with sympathy and humility, as his character feebly fights against a situation he does not understand and an overwhelming sense of inadequacy.

'Ordinary People' is a deeply enthralling classic that launched Robert Redford's distinguished directing career and shot the young Timothy Hutton to international stardom, though he was not able to sustain it. It received four Academy Awards for direction, screenplay by Alvin Sargent, 'Best Supporting Actor' for Hutton and the coveted 'Best Picture' prize.