CLASSIC MOVIE CORNER: 'The Graduate' (1967)

“The Graduate” (1967)

MPAA Rating: PG
Directed by: Mike Nichols
Starring: Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft, Katharine Ross, William Daniels, Murray Hamilton

The Gist: What is love? For Benjamin and Elaine, it’s the ultimate act of rebellion.

The Story: After graduating from college, young Benjamin Braddock (Hoffman) returns to his suburban L.A. home with no ambitions. Benjamin sees his parents and friends and knows one thing: He doesn’t want to be like them. They all lead boring and superficial lives, but one of them, Mrs. Robinson, is different. Robinson (Bancroft) is twice Benjamin’s age, but takes an inordinate interest in him. She puts the moves on Benjamin, sparking a summer love affair. Benjamin’s parents add another layer of complexity when they pressure him into dating the Robinsons’ daughter, Elaine (Ross). To make matters worse, Benjamin and Elaine actually fall in love.

The Review: Like many iconic coming-of-age films, “The Graduate” no longer seems as ground-breaking as it once did. It’s obviously a product of its time. But, several elements continue to make it an ageless classic. Hoffman’s performance is one of them. In his breakthrough role, 30-year-old Hoffman convincingly played an insecure young man of 20. Also, Simon and Garfunkel’s classic soundtrack is a perfect mate for the film’s avant-garde visuals. The picture earned Nichols a Best Director Academy Award, and “The Graduate” was also deservedly nominated for Best Cinematography. It also should’ve earned at least a nod for Best Editing. Best of all, this is a smart romantic comedy that’s neither sappy nor saccharine.

The Classic Quote: Mrs. Robinson: “Benjamin, I am not trying to seduce you. Benjamin: “I know that, but please, Mrs. Robinson, this is difficult—” Mrs. Robinson: “Would you like me to seduce you?”

(Jorge Sosa is a staff writer for the Hutchinson Leader. He can be reached at sosa@hutchinsonleader.com)