Ordinary People

Conrad is a troubled teenager returning home after four months in a psychiatric hospital following Buck's death. He wrestles with survivor's guilt, alienation from friends, and difficulty communicating with his parents. Through therapy with Dr. Berger and a budding relationship with Jeannine, he tries to rebuild a sense of normalcy while learning to express his emotions.

Conrad's father, who tries to bridge the gap with his son and mediate between Conrad and his mother. He often takes Conrad's side and seeks to protect him while questioning Beth's evasive behavior. His patience and vulnerability gradually reveal a desire to heal the family bond.

Conrad's mother, who struggles to confront her own grief and maintain the appearance of normalcy. She is distant toward Conrad, denying the pain and focusing on keeping up the image of a flawless family. Her choice to withdraw at crucial moments drives a rift that ultimately forces tough confrontations.

The psychiatrist who treats Conrad, recognizing the depth of his guilt and trauma. He guides Conrad through late-night breakthrough sessions that help him accept Buck's death as not his fault and begin to articulate his emotions. The therapy scenes form the emotional core of Conrad's healing process.

Conrad's girlfriend who begins dating him and provides him with a sense of normalcy and hope. She supports him as he learns to open up and trust again, offering steady care and a window into ordinary life.

Buck is the older Jarrett son whose death in a sailing accident catalyzes the family crisis. His absence casts a long shadow over the family, shaping Conrad's guilt and the fragile return to normal life.

A friend from the psychiatric hospital who has taken her own life, her death deeply affects Conrad's therapy and triggers an emotional catharsis.