The Great Santini (1979)

Seeing the DVD cover for this film, I wrongfully assumed it was a war, or at least military focused movie. Instead it is the story of an asshole father who would rather flying planes than treat his family, especially his oldest son, with any kindness. There is also a shoehorned in story of the son’s black friend being harassed by racist rednecks, as if the main story didn’t have enough weight to hold a film by itself. Despite my dislike for the story itself, the cast particularly Robert Duvall and Michael O’Keefe as the father and son respectively work wonders with the material. Even though Julie Anne Haddock was little utilized as the younger daughter, I also have a soft spot for the season 1 Facts of Life cast.

Oscar Nominations: Best Actor in a Leading Role; Best Actor in a Supporting Role