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.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – Ordinary People (1980)

Trace every key event in Ordinary People (1980) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Buck's Tragic Accident

The Jarrett family is deeply affected by the accidental death of their eldest son, Buck. This tragedy sets the stage for the emotional turmoil that unfolds within the family in the months that follow.

Four months prior Lake Forest, Illinois
2

Conrad's Suicide Attempt

In the aftermath of Buck's death, Conrad struggles with intense grief and despair, leading him to attempt suicide. This critical moment highlights the severity of his emotional trauma and the impact of their loss on the family.

Four months prior
3

Conrad's Return Home

Conrad returns to his family home after being hospitalized for his emotional struggles. He faces a challenging environment as he feels disconnected from his parents, who are also reeling from the impact of their loss.

Four months later Jarrett Family Home
4

Seeking Help from Dr. Berger

To cope with his pain, Conrad turns to Dr. Tyrone Berger, a compassionate psychiatrist. Dr. Berger helps Conrad explore the guilt and trauma surrounding Buck's death, initiating a critical path to healing.

5

Conrad's Struggles with Family

Conrad finds it increasingly difficult to relate to his parents, especially with his mother, Beth, favoring the memory of Buck. This favoritism creates an emotional rift that exacerbates Conrad's feelings of isolation and sadness.

Jarrett Family Home
6

Conrad's Blossoming Relationship

Amid his struggles, Conrad begins to develop a protective friendship with Jeannine, a fellow student. Her support reignites hope within him, offering a sense of normalcy in the storm of family chaos.

7

Christmas Confrontation

An argument breaks out during Christmas over a family photo, revealing latent tensions between Conrad and Beth. This confrontation escalates, showcasing the underlying resentment Conrad harbors towards his mother’s emotional detachment.

Christmas Jarrett Family Home
8

Trip to Houston

The family faces further strain during a visit to Beth's brother Ward in Houston. Calvin confronts Beth, urging her to address the emotional distance that has created a fissure in their family dynamics.

Houston
9

Karen's Passing

Conrad learns that Karen, a fellow patient from his hospital stay, has passed away. This news plunges him back into reflection, sparking a pivotal moment of reckoning regarding his own guilt and emotional state.

10

Breakthrough with Dr. Berger

In a poignant session with Dr. Berger, Conrad confronts his feelings of guilt and begins to process the loss of Buck. This catharsis marks a significant step toward healing, as he strives to understand his mother’s pain.

11

Conrad's Rejection by Beth

Despite his efforts to reach out, Conrad is met with chilling indifference from Beth. This rejection serves as a turning point, exposing the emotional rift that has devastated their relationship.

Jarrett Family Home
12

Calvin's Confrontation

Desperate for answers, Calvin confronts Beth about her capacity to love. His probing questions create an unsettling silence that forces both of them to face the reality of their fractured relationship.

Jarrett Family Home
13

Beth Leaves for Houston

After the confrontational exchange with Calvin, Beth hastily packs her belongings and returns to Houston. This decision leaves Calvin and Conrad to navigate their family's new and uncertain dynamics.

Jarrett Family Home
14

Father and Son United

In the aftermath of Beth's departure, Calvin and Conrad find strength in their bond. Together, they confront the turmoil of their reality, realizing that their paternal love forms the foundation of their survival.

Jarrett Family Home

Last Updated: November 22, 2024 at 18:33

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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

Characters, Settings & Themes in Ordinary People

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Ordinary People

More About Ordinary People

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