Terms of Endearment

Terms of Endearment covers three decades in the lives of widow Aurora Greenway (Shirley MacLaine) and her daughter Emma (Debra Winger). Fiercely protected by Aurora throughout childhood, Emma runs into resistance from her mother when she marries wishy-washy college teacher Flap (Jeff Daniels). ...more

Terms of Endearment is almost two films -- an upbeat, comic first half followed by a tearjerking tragedy in which Emma Greenway (Debra Winger) is stricken with cancer. It is notable for its frank treatment of serious illness and for its intricate portrayal of a troubled mother/daughter relationship.The film was a personal triumph for television veteran James L. Brooks, who took home three Oscars, for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Director (his first feature film), and Best Picture. Moreover, the ...more