Kramer vs. Kramer

Kramer vs. Kramer

Year: 1979

Runtime: 105 min

Language: English

Director: Robert Benton

Drama

After his wife unexpectedly leaves, advertising executive Ted Kramer finds himself a single parent, navigating the challenges of raising their young son, Billy. He develops a close relationship with Billy as they adjust to their new life, but the unexpected return of Joanna throws everything into turmoil. A difficult custody battle ensues, forcing Ted and Joanna to confront their feelings and examine the complexities of love, sacrifice, and what truly defines a family.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Kramer vs. Kramer (1979). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The narrative reflects a contemporary setting dealing with modern family dynamics and societal expectations of the time. Issues surrounding parenting, divorce, and gender roles are central themes explored throughout the story.

Location

New York City

The movie takes place in New York City, a bustling metropolis known for its diverse population and iconic landmarks. It is a city where personal struggles unfold amidst the fast-paced urban life, creating a stark contrast between the busy streets and the intimate world of family.

🏙️ City 🏡 Home

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

Main Characters – Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

Meet the key characters of Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Ted Kramer (Dustin Hoffman)

Ted is a hardworking advertising executive who is initially more focused on his career than his family. As he grapples with the challenges of single parenthood, Ted evolves into a more caring and responsible father, learning to prioritize his son's needs over his job. His journey reflects growth, resilience, and the struggle to balance personal and professional responsibilities.

👔 Work 👨‍👦 Parenting 🏆 Growth

Joanna Kramer (Meryl Streep)

Joanna is a complex character who grapples with her decision to leave her family. Her struggle for independence reveals her internal conflict and desire for personal fulfillment. Though initially appearing selfish, her character evolves, ultimately demonstrating the deep love she has for her son despite her actions.

🌹 Independence 😢 Heartache 🥀 Sacrifice

Billy Kramer

Billy is the young son who embodies innocence and vulnerability throughout the turmoil of his parents' separation. His longing for his mother and simultaneous bond with his father underline the emotional complexities faced by children in divorce situations. Billy's character highlights the impact of adult struggles on the lives of children.

👶 Innocence 💔 Vulnerability 👨‍👦 Family

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

Major Themes – Kramer vs. Kramer (1979)

Explore the central themes of Kramer vs. Kramer (1979), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

👨‍👦 Fatherhood

Fatherhood is a significant theme as Ted learns to embrace his role as a single parent and navigate the complexities of raising his son. The film illustrates the emotional labor involved in parenting and the importance of building a strong father-son bond.

⚖️ Custody Battle

The custody battle serves as a central plot point, highlighting the emotional and legal struggles parents face when relationships break down. It portrays the harsh realities of the family court system and the impact of such conflicts on children.

💔 Separation

Separation resonates deeply in the film, showcasing the heartache of a family torn apart by divorce. The emotional journey reflects on love, loss, and the eventual acceptance of new realities for both Ted and Joanna.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:21

Unlock the Full Story of Kramer vs. Kramer

Don't stop at just watching — explore Kramer vs. Kramer in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Kramer vs. Kramer is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Kramer vs. Kramer Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Kramer vs. Kramer, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Kramer vs. Kramer Summary

Kramer vs. Kramer Timeline

Track the full timeline of Kramer vs. Kramer with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

Kramer vs. Kramer Timeline

More About Kramer vs. Kramer

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Kramer vs. Kramer: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About Kramer vs. Kramer

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