Ordinary People

Ordinary People

Year: 1980

Runtime: 124 min

Language: Korean

Drama

When Koo Jae-pil discovers his estranged wife covered in blood, he finds himself immediately suspected by the police. Determined to clear his name and uncover the truth behind the shocking scene, he navigates a complex web of suspicion and uncertainty. As he investigates, the boundaries of reality become increasingly blurred, forcing him to confront unsettling truths about his life and the people around him.

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Timeline & Setting – Ordinary People (1980)

Explore the full timeline and setting of Ordinary People (1980). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The story unfolds in contemporary times, capturing the complexities of family dynamics in the aftermath of trauma. Themes of grief, emotional disconnection, and the quest for healing resonate strongly in this period as characters grapple with their personal struggles amidst societal expectations.

Location

Lake Forest, Houston

Lake Forest is an affluent suburb located just outside of Chicago, characterized by its beautiful landscapes and an air of tranquility. It serves as the backdrop for the Jarrett family's emotional struggles following a tragedy. Houston, a vibrant and sprawling city in Texas, represents a pivotal escape for the family, where deeper issues are confronted and familial dynamics reach a breaking point.

🏙️ City 🌳 Nature

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:06

Main Characters – Ordinary People (1980)

Meet the key characters of Ordinary People (1980), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Conrad Jarrett

Conrad is a deeply troubled young man grappling with the trauma stemming from his brother Buck's death. His character portrays the struggles of adolescence compounded by mental health issues, as he attempts to navigate his family dynamics and find his path to healing. Through therapy and connections with others, he learns to confront his pain and seek understanding.

🧑‍⚕️ Mental Health 💔 Trauma

Calvin Jarrett

Calvin is the devoted father striving to bridge the emotional chasm that separates him from his wife, Beth, and their son, Conrad. He is portrayed as a compassionate and protective figure, attempting to maintain family unity while facing the harsh realities of their emotional turmoil. His character embodies the struggle for clarity and love amidst chaos.

👨‍👦 Family 💪 Strength

Beth Jarrett

Beth is the emotionally distant mother whose attempts to uphold family appearances create further strain within the household. Her character reflects a deep-seated conflict between her desire for normalcy and her inability to confront her vulnerabilities. This leads to painful rifts, highlighting the challenges of expressing love and support in difficult times.

⚖️ Conflict ❗ Indifference

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:06

Major Themes – Ordinary People (1980)

Explore the central themes of Ordinary People (1980), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🖤 Grief

The theme of grief permeates throughout the film as the Jarrett family navigates the emotional aftermath of losing their eldest son, Buck. Each family member copes differently, reflecting the complexities of mourning and the pain of loss. The film poignantly explores how grief can isolate individuals within a family unit, emphasizing the importance of open communication in the healing process.

💔 Isolation

Isolation is a central theme in 'Ordinary People,' as Conrad feels increasingly disconnected from his family in the wake of tragedy. The emotional distance between him and his parents creates a barrier that exacerbates his struggles with PTSD. The film illustrates how lack of understanding and vulnerability can lead to feelings of profound loneliness, even in the company of loved ones.

🕊️ Healing

Healing is a crucial theme as Conrad seeks to confront his trauma and rebuild his relationships with his family. His sessions with Dr. Berger facilitate a journey towards understanding and acceptance. The film underscores the importance of confronting one's pain and the role of compassion in fostering healing within familial bonds.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:06

Unlock the Full Story of Ordinary People

Don't stop at just watching — explore Ordinary People 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 Ordinary People is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Ordinary People Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Ordinary People, 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.

Ordinary People Summary

Ordinary People Timeline

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

Ordinary People Timeline

More About Ordinary People

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about Ordinary People: 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 Ordinary People

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