Ordinary People Multiple Choice Quiz | 10 Questions

Answer: Jarrett

The entire film is centered around the affluent Jarrett family and the turmoil they encounter after losing a family member. Mary Tyler Moore plays the mother, Beth, Donald Sutherland portrays the father, Calvin, and Timothy Hutton (in his Oscar winning performance) portrays the youngest son, Conrad.

Answer: Judith Guest

While the novel is simply inspiration for the plot of the movie, both versions of the story are quite good. The adapted screenplay was written Alvin Sargent.

Answer: Buck

Buck dies in an accident after the boat he and his brother were riding in, overturns during a storm. The event leaves the remaining members of the once "perfect" family in emotional ruin. The eldest of the two Jarrett boys was also the mother's favorite, and his death is very difficult for the mother as well as the remaining son to accept.

Answer: 4 months

Conrad seemingly has the most to deal with in the aftermath of his brother's death. He is traumatized because he was present during the accident and he feels guilty because he survived. These emotions as well as many more eventually drive the youth to try to end his life.

Answer: Karen

Conrad became very close with Karen during his time in the hospital. The scene where he calls her, only to learn that she had killed herself is one of the most poignant scenes in the film.

Answer: Dr. Berger

Judd Hirsh received an Oscar nomination for his wonderful portrayal of Conrad's psychiatrist Dr. Berger. His character is an unconventional doctor to say the least. He is cut and dry and does not preach the psychobabble that many psychiatrists are into. Yet, in the long run, he and his technique begin to help Conrad deal with his guilt.

Answer: They both sing in the same choir

Jeannine Pratt, played by Elizabeth McGovern, becomes Conrad's love interest in the film. She has the ability to understand him and his problems without feeling overwhelmed or unsympathetic. Her involvement in his life helps Conrad deal with his issues and the pain he feels inside.

Answer: Houston

Beth would prefer things to just return to normal even after the death of her first born son. Her inability to deal with the tragedy and her unwillingness to accept Conrad is one of the key points that drives this character study. Mary Tyler Moore received an Oscar nomination for her portrayal of the detached and indifferent mother.

Answer: He needed to talk to someone about his own problems

Donald Sutherland plays Calvin, Conrad's father. He is trying to be supportive of Conrad while also dealing with growing issues that develop between him and his wife. He is torn between two worlds while always simply trying to what he thinks is "right". It is amazing the growth and changes that occur to this character throughout the story.

Answer: She leaves them

The scene where Calvin finally confronts Beth about her lack of sympathy and concern is one of the most affecting in the movie. Calvin finally realizes that she is incapable of such emotions, always has been, and will never change. She is so dazed by the revelation she says nothing. She turns around, packs her bags, and leaves in a taxi.