Mike Nichols' dramedy masterpiece is full of iconic imagery and memorable uses of music, but there's none better than the final scene of the film, in which Benjamin runs to save Elaine from getting married to classmate Carl. Elaine and Ben hilariously make their hasty escape from the church and board a bus, heading to the back seat. In the film's brilliant final shot, the two smile at each other on the bus, but that look slowly changes to something more ambiguous and thought-provoking, as Simon & Garfunkel's classic The Sound of Silence again plays out. The shot is crucial as it at first appears to be a triumphant and affectionate way to bring their story to a close, but in actuality the uncertainty on their faces is a perfect reflection of the existential angst and uncertainty about their own futures. It's extremely relatable for any youths watching the movie, and a brilliantly bittersweet way to send the couple off into the world.
Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes).
General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.
