Ironweed (film): Difference between revisions

The story is set during the 1930s [[Great Depression]]. Francis Phelan (Nicholson), a washed-up and retired baseball player, deserted his family in the 1910s after accidentally dropping his infant son, causing the child's death. It is implied hethat Francis was drunk at the time, but Francishe claims he was just tired and fails to understand why no one believes him. HeFrancis became a [[Homeless|vagrant]], roaming streets and punishing himself by recalling men he knew who died years earlier in different circumstances. Wandering into his hometown of Albany on [[Halloween]] in 1938, Phelan seeks out his lover and drinking companion, Helen Archer (Meryl Streep). The two meet up in a mission managed by Reverend Chester ([[James Gammon]]), and later in Oscar Reo's (Gwynne) gin mill. Over the next few days, Phelan takes a few minor jobs to support Helen, while haunted by visions of his past. Eventually, Francis returns to his old family house and tries to make peace with his wife. Annie Phelan (Carroll Baker), his son Billy ([[Michael O'Keefe]]), and his daughter Peg ([[Diane Venora]]). Meanwhile, local vigilantes attempt to violently drive the homeless out of Albany. During the course of the day, a series of events unfolds that permanently changes Francis' life.