“Ordinary People” (1980) – Donald Sutherland’s Magnificent Masterpiece About Dysfunctional Families

Director: Robert Redford

Starring: Donald Sutherland, Mary Tyler Moore, Timothy Hutton

‘Extraordinary Family Drama’

“Ordinary People” is directed by Robert Redford. Its script is written by Alvin Sargent and based of a novel by Judith Guest. This film stars Donald Sutherland, Mary Tyler Moore, Timothy Hutton, Judd Hirsch, and Elizabeth McGovern. The accidental death of an older son in an affluent family deeply strains the relationships between the good-natured father (Donald Sutherland), bitter mother (Mary Tyler Moore), and guilt-ridden son (Timothy Hutton). “Ordinary People” won 4 Academy Awards in 1980 including Best Screenplay, Actor in a Supporting Role, Director, and Picture.

Robert Redford’s directorial debut is an exceptional example of the perfect family drama. Redford shows a deep understanding of the subject matter just by the direction. The film mainly consists of long, perceptive shots that capture the emotions on the actor/actresses face. Redford really steers this film into the aspect of being realistic and profound. His direction is impressive for a directorial debut. Alvin Sargent’s screenplay is excellent. It delves deep into the life of your typical North American family. The screenplay makes this film absorbing and interesting at the same time; sometimes taking care of its slow pace.

Donald Sutherland and Mary Tyler Moore are great in their difficult roles. Both these stars give undeniable emotional depth and charisma to their characters. Timothy Hutton delivers a terrific performance as a guilt-ridden teenager. Hutton captures the pure soul of a person and has some of the most powerful dialogue in this film. This is one of the greatest performances ever and Hutton was completely deserving of the Academy Award he got. The rest of the cast including Judd Hirsch and Elizabeth McGovern is magnificent; doing justice to their roles.

“Ordinary People” is one of the greatest family dramas to come out. It is a thorough, intelligent, and highly unforgettable film that has many messages. This can be hard to watch because of the heavy subject matter, but otherwise it is recommended for everyone.

5/5 stars