It could be called a comedy, drama, or romance. But truth be told, “The Graduate” is a little of all of those things. More importantly, it’s a sharply written and beautifully crafted film that ushered in a new approach to filmmaking. It’s touted as a highly influential picture and has grabbed a top 10 spot on AFI’s Top 100 Movies list. While I certainly wouldn’t heap as much praise on the movie as many have, it’s still a really good film with its share of memorable moments.
Mike Nichols directed and won an Oscar for the film which is based on a novel by Charles Webb. Dustin Hoffman plays Benjamin Braddock, a disconnected and isolated recent graduate from an east coast college. His parents put together a graduation party but that does nothing to dent his general apathy towards grad school and his uncertainty for the future. He’s such an interesting character who sometimes comes across as an irreverent jerk. But he’s also sad and sympathetic and a bit of a social pariah. He can be flippant and impudent but we find out early on that he has genuine problems understanding what he’s supposed to do during this new stage of his life..
Perhaps all of this is why Benjamin is such easy prey for Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft), a much older friend of the family who married for the wrong reasons and is thoroughly unhappy with her circumstances. She baits Benjamin into an illicit affair which over time adds even more complications to his already muddled life. Some critics have argued that Mrs. Robinson is the most appealing and alive character in the film. They point to her ability to see things as they are and to pursue her own happiness. But I had a much different reaction to Mrs. Robinson. She is shameless, dishonest, and self-absorbed. Most of her circumstances are of her own doing and instead of handling them responsibly, she goes the route of disgraceful self-indulgence with little to no moral conviction. Her maliciousness shows itself even more when Benjamin inadvertently falls in love with her daughter Elaine played by the lovely Katharine Ross.
Some have said that “The Graduate” hasn’t held up well over time. I disagree. I still see “The Graduate” as very much a late 1960′s film. But I truly believe it has maintained it’s solidity and uniqueness and hasn’t been hurt by the passing of time. It’s moments of humor are still funny, Benjamin is still an engaging character, and the brilliant final shot on the bus is still as mesmerizing as ever. Simon and Garfunkel’s perfectly placed songs still give several scenes an extra emotional punch and the direction from Mike Nichols is still satisfying.
My bigger problem with the film is with the relationship between Benjamin and Elaine. Even though she comes across as simple and passive, their relationship begins on a pretty strong note. But things start to unravel a bit and the relationship falls apart. But soon Benjamin heads to Berkley to find and propose to Elaine. Ross gives a great performance but her character is shortchanged by the material. It’s impossible to understand Elaine’s thinking and her decision making is rash and sometimes out of the blue. A tighter script would have sold the romance better in the second half by opening up the relationship and upping the stakes. I still love and understand the ending. But things get a little clunky before we get to that wonderful final scene.
I still believe “The Graduate” has earned the respect it’s been given. It may not be the most tight-knit script and some key character relationships are underwritten. But anchored by some stellar performances and a great soundtrack, it’s still a lot of fun. Like all really good movies, this has held up well over time for me. Would I put “The Graduate” in my personal Top 10 like AFI did? No, I wouldn’t. But that doesn’t mean this isn’t a really good movie.
Keith & the Movies 
One of the great films of the 60s, for sure. Fine look at a Mike Nichols masterwork, Keith.
Thanks! The lull at the theaters has given me a chance to share these other reviews I’ve been anxious to post. This one in particular.
Reblogged this on hadassaab.
Spot on here Keith. I’m not in the camp who thinks this is a masterpiece but it’s certainly a well crafted and well told story. I do kind of agree it hasn’t aged particularly well in some respects, perhaps in its attitudes towards relationships and that kind of thing but there’s still a good film here, no doubt.
I’m with ya. Still a good film. Great soundtrack. Solid performances. And I just love that ending.
Nice review. I’m a big fan of The Graduate. It hasn’t aged flawlessly, but it’s a strong beginning to New Hollywood and like you said Simon and Garfunkel’s soundtrack is great (I specially like The Sound of Silence and the scene it was used in).
Yes! The Sound of Silence in the end scene is absolutely perfect. Such a strong finish to the movie.
I really want to see this but I often struggle with Dustin Hoffman movies because he looks just like my dad. It’s just weird. Lol!
LOL! I can see what you mean.
I haven’t seen this movie in awhile, but I remember thinking just how realistic it was in certain areas. And that ending! I mean, for being a mainstream movie released back in the 60’s, I’m surprised they were able to get away with that. Good review Keith.
Thanks man. Any small gripes I may have with the movie are all but made up for with that remarkable final shot. There is so much in that last shot of the two in the back of the bus.
I saw this years ago and I remember how seductive Anne Bancroft was. I agree though that Ross’ character is so underwritten, it’s kind of a thankless role I guess as the film is more about the affair between Ben and the older woman.
I think in many ways Bancroft’s role is more of a device (and a very effective one). But it’s Ross who coup have been the stronger prod to his moral conscience. Still, even though underwritten, she is a great part.
It’s interesting but when I think of The Graduate I always think more of Bancroft’s role. But yeah, Ross’ is the moral compass of the film. Plus she is just so beautiful! I remember her from Butch Cassidy & The Sundance Kid too, absolutely gorgeous!
YES!!!!! Gorgeous indeed. An you’re right, Bancroft definitely got most of the press!
Wasn’t really a movie I enjoyed, but I can see why it is usually mentioned in lists of great movies. Nice review!
Thanks. I really like it. But I still don’t see it as one of our greatest films (as many do).
Fine review, the music in this film is so good.
Yes!! It adds so much to several of the scenes!
The ending scene with the banging on the church doors to stop the wedding more than makes up for the weak spots. Oh, and the pool scene with the snorkeling mask. Such vivid images. Great review, Keith!
Thanks Cindy. I just love, love, love the scene with them in the bus. No dialogue at all. It’s all told through their expressions. From thrill and exhilaration to realization and concern. Brilliant ending.