Shy People (1987)

Sophisticated New York journalist, Diana Sullivan, embarks on a deep dive into the theme of "family" for a series of articles for Cosmopolitan magazine. With the dual purpose of keeping an eye on her wild, yet troubled, teen daughter Grace and exploring their own family tree, Diana steers their journey towards the untouched backwaters of Louisiana bayou, an area presently under the shadow of encroaching oil companies. Hidden in these murky depths is a forgotten branch of their family, led by the iron-willed Ruth Sullivan, a young widow who rules her domain according to her own unyielding code, and a band of grown sons - Mark, Tommy, and the mentally slow Pauly - along with Mark's pregnant wife, Candy. Unaware of Diana and Grace's existence, the Louisiana Sullivans live a life far removed from city life, their world a stark contrast to the fast-paced rhythm of New York. What begins as an afternoon interview for Diana's article stretches into a multi-day immersion into Ruth's world. Their rustic shack, devoid of electricity, becomes a test of endurance for Diana and Grace, and the stage for an inevitable cultural clash. The maelstrom of tension is further fueled by Grace's urban ennui and the curiosity of her country cousins. As the plot unfolds, Diana discovers another Sullivan son, Mike, who has managed to break free from Ruth's grip. In this web of kinship, secrets, and cultural conflict, tragedy strikes, leading to a profound understanding of family dysfunction that transcends geographical boundaries. "Shy People" is a haunting exploration of family, culture, and the raw complexities of human relationships.

Shy People is a drama movie featuring Jill Clayburgh.

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