Terms of Endearment is a 1983 American comedy-drama film directed by James L. Brooks and starred Shirley MacLaine, Debra Winger, Jack Nicholson, Danny DeVito, and Jeff Daniels. The film spans over several years chronicling the complex relationship between Aurora Greenway (Shirley MacLaine) and her daughter Emma (Debra Winger).
The film starts with Emma's marriage to Flap Horton (Jeff Daniels), a young professor who is always on the move. Aurora, a headstrong widow with a penchant for controlling her surroundings, deeply disapproves of Flap and disapproves of Emma's decision. Over time, Emma and Flap have two children, but the marriage starts to crumble. Emma has an affair, which Aurora discovers, leading to a fiery confrontation.
Meanwhile, Aurora begins dating her neighbor, an amiable retired astronaut named Garrett Breedlove (Jack Nicholson). Despite initially bickering, the two gradually develop a mutual affection for each other. However, as Emma's health deteriorates due to cancer, Aurora becomes consumed with looking after her and her grandchildren.
Emma's illness becomes the focal point of the latter part of the movie, showcasing the enduring love between a mother and her daughter. Aurora becomes her daughter's caretaker, providing both emotional and physical support. In the end, Emma dies due to complications from her illness with Aurora tearfully saying goodbye to her daughter.
The film won five Academy Awards including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress (Shirley MacLaine), Best Supporting Actor (Jack Nicholson), and Best Adapted Screenplay. Terms of Endearment has become a classic film about the ups and downs of mother-daughter relationships and life's emotional journey.