Ordinary People

Thursday, June 11, 2009 we watched Ordinary People (1980) and had Ordinary Pea-Pasta.

In a year with tough competition from the likes of Raging Bull and Coal Miner's Daughter, Robert Redford's directorial debut won four Academy Awards including Best Picture. Phenomenal acting throughout gives the film an edge none of us had experienced before.

Mary Tyler Moore and Donald Sutherland take on the roles of mother and father in a family which has suffered the tragedy of losing their oldest son. Younger (and now only) son Conrad (Timothy Hutton) battles feelings of depression, anger and guilt, helped by psychiatrist Dr. Berger. A memorable quote by Dr. Berger: "A little advice about feeling, kid. Don't expect it always to tickle." Conrad battles pressure from his swim coach and eventually finds solace in Jeanine Pratt (Elizabeth McGovern), who helps bring him back to life.

The only unrealistic moment in the movie was when the parents flew to Houston from Illinois in a 747, which Eric said would never happen.

Our pasta dinner was good, but not amazing. The search for pea tendrils led us to a grocery store in Chinatown--the Asian Supermarket--underground on 11th St. between Arch and Race. Pig spleen, anyone? Unfortunately, we struck out and ended up with baby spinach as a substitute. The fresh mint in the dish clashed rather than melding nicely, I'd leave that out next time or maybe use another fresh herb instead.

In attendance: Barb, Lindsey and Eric

Ratings: Movie = 4.25, Dinner = 3.75