KRAMER VS. KRAMER

Based on the novel by Avery Corman
Written and directed by Robert Benton

Dustin Hoffman
Meryl Streep
Justin Henry
Jane Alexander

Premiere date: December 17, 1979
PG

Manhattan housewife Joanna Kramer walks out on her workaholic ad man husband Ted, leaving their young son Billy in Ted's less than capable hands. Through trial and error, Ted learns how to take care of Billy, devoting more energy to his family than to his work, and finally losing his high-powered job because of his new priorities. When Joanna returns with her own lucrative job and the intent to take custody of Billy, Ted finds employment that won't interfere with his paternal duties. Even though he proves that he can do it all, Joanna still wins in court. Joanna, however, rethinks her desires when she finally grasps how close father and son have become.

National Board of Review
Best Supporting Actress - Meryl Streep (also for Manhattan and The Seduction of Joe Tynan)

9 Academy Award Nominations, 5 Wins
Best Picture
Best Director
Best Actor - Dusin Hoffman
Best Supporting Actor - Justin Henry
Best Supporting Actress - Jane Alexander
Best Supporting Actress - Meryl Streep
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Film Editing
Best Cinematography