There are some movies that just seem to represent an entire generation, and The Graduate is one of them. Benjamin Braddock (played by Dustin Hoffman in one of his earliest film roles) has recently graduated from college, doing all of the things expected of him as an upper middle class man, but finds himself feeling curiously deflated. Theres a massive disconnect between his generation and the older one he and his parents barely seem capable of speaking the same language as one another. Nichols does a marvelous job of capturing the spirit of isolation, particularly through his repeated use of an underwater motif. Ben is frequently shown in pools and framed against aquariums, where he appears alone and all of the sights and sounds are muted. The Graduate has resonated with audiences for over forty years because it asks the questions that we all think of at one point or another. What do I do now? Is this really all there is? Its a great film, full stop, but if you watch this movie in your early 20s, itll stay with you for the rest of your life.
Audrey Fox is an ex-film student, which means that she prefers to spend her days in the dark, watching movies and pondering the director's use of diegetic sound. She currently works as an entertainment writer, joyfully rambling about all things film and television related. Add her on Twitter at @audonamission and check out her film blog at 1001moviesandbeyond.com.
