---
title: "On Golden Pond"
year: 1981
canonical_url: "https://www.archytele.com/show/on-golden-pond-1981"
media_type: "movie"
tmdb_id: 11816
imdb_id: null
status: "Released"
runtime_minutes: 109
community_rating: 7.3
vote_count: 0
content_rating: "PG"
---

# On Golden Pond (1981) — Television & Cinema Intelligence Dossier

> **Archytele Living Vault Canonical Record**: https://www.archytele.com/show/on-golden-pond-1981

## Executive Summary & Cultural Positioning

On Golden Pond is a film first released in 1981. Catalogued under Drama, Romance. Produced and broadcast by IPC Films, ITC Entertainment. Current status: Released.

## The Hook & The Verdict

**The Hook**: "An aging couple faces generational friction and family conflict during a summer at the lake."

### Why Watch
- Explores complex family bonds and generational friction
- Features a dramatic summer story of conflict and resolution

### Caveats & Content Note
- Deals with heavy generational conflict and emotional tension
- Tone & Suitability: The film contains dramatic themes centered on family conflict and generational friction.

**Micro-Themes & Vibe Matrix**: drama, romance, family, resolute

## Streaming Availability Matrix

Direct streaming licensing updates dynamically. Consult the live tracking interface at https://www.archytele.com/show/on-golden-pond-1981#watch.

## Creative Credits

- **Directed by**: Mark Rydell
- **Networks / Studios**: IPC Films, ITC Entertainment

## Key Cast Continuity

- **Katharine Hepburn** as *Ethel Thayer*
- **Henry Fonda** as *Norman Thayer Jr.*
- **Jane Fonda** as *Chelsea Thayer Wayne*
- **Doug McKeon** as *Billy Ray*
- **Dabney Coleman** as *Bill Ray*
- **William Lanteau** as *Charlie Martin*
- **Christopher Rydell** as *Sumner Todd*
- **Troy Garity** as *Young Boy on Jetty (uncredited)*

## Canonical Frequently Asked Questions

### Q: When was the film released?
The film was released in 1981.

### Q: Who directed the film?
The film was directed by Mark Rydell.

### Q: Who wrote the screenplay?
The screenplay was written by Ernest Thompson based on his play.

### Q: What genres are associated with the film?
The film is categorized as a drama and romance.

### Q: Who are the main characters mentioned in the synopsis?
The main characters are Norman, Ethel, and their daughter Chelsea.

## Grounded Source Citations

- [On Golden Pond — The Movie Database (TMDB)](https://www.themoviedb.org/movie/11816)
- [On Golden Pond (1981 film) - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/On_Golden_Pond_(1981_film))
- [Na Zlatém jezeře – Wikipedie](https://cs.wikipedia.org/wiki/Na_Zlat%C3%A9m_jeze%C5%99e)

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*Generated by Archytele Open Intelligence Systems. Data verified against TMDB and JustWatch APIs.*