Terms of Endearment is almost two films -- an upbeat, comic first half followed by a tearjerking tragedy in which Emma Greenaway (Debra Winger) is stricken with cancer. It is notable for its frank treatment of serious illness and for its intricate portrayal of a troubled mother/daughter relationship.The film was a personal triumph for television veteran James L. Brooks, who took home three Oscars, for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Director (his first feature film), and Best Picture. Moreover, the film manages to blend together two of the screen's most dominant performers, Shirley MacLaine and Jack Nicholson, each of whom received an Oscar, perhaps for having the patience not to steal scenes from each other.