Based on the novel by Larry McMurtry, director James Brooks' multi-Oscar-winning 1983 debut feature explores the 30-year relationship between Aurora Greenway (MacLaine), an overprotective mother, and her daughter Emma (Winger), especially in regard to their love lives. While Emma's relationships are in shambles, first with a wayward professor (Jeff Daniels) and then with a married man (John Lithgow), Aurora is regularly regaled by gentleman callers (including Danny DeVito), until she's swept off her feet by playboy ex-astronaut Garrett Breedlove (Jack Nicholson). Although Terms of Endearment shifts from broad comedy to serious tragedy when Emma discovers she has terminal cancer, the fine cast and crew never let this wonderful film slide into maudlin emotional manipulation. Featuring a good widescreen transfer, with sharp Dolby Digital 5.1. sound, the DVD also includes an illuminating commentary track featuring Brooks. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (R. Pitman)
Terms of Endearment
Paramount, 131 min., PG, $29.99 Vol. 16, Issue 3
Terms of Endearment
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