Review Of On Golden Pond
“On Golden Pond” The film, “On Golden Pond”, is a rediscovery of human bonds and generational issues. Set in the early 1980’s, the film examines a summer in the comfortable lifestyle of aging parents, Ethel and Norman, during a visit from their only child, Chelsea. When Chelsea, her boyfriend, Bill along with his son, Billy, arrive, long buried family issues resurface. Through fear and eventual confrontation, these issues are finally addressed. Norman celebrates his 80th birthday during his daughter’s visit. Previously, his wife, Ethel, remarks to Chelsea that his “fascination with death” continues unabated. This remark refers to Norman’s confrontation with life as a man in charge. Ironically, he now finds he is faced with advancing age and occasional moments of confusion. Forced to deal with death’s approaching reality, which actually frightens him, Norman quickly changes the subject whenever any discussion of death occurs. It is quite evident the bond Norman and Ethel have constructed allows them to face advancing age together. Ethel, the family negotiator and stabilizer, is very nurturing and gracefully aging. She and Norman have an open relationship that can only be developed by being together many years. Faced with the growing infirmaries of life and strongly supported by his wife, Norman is able to cope with Ethel’s devolution and love.