The Graduate (1967)
"The Graduate" is a classic American film directed by Mike Nichols, released in 1967. The film stars Dustin Hoffman as Benjamin Braddock, a recent college graduate who finds himself adrift in a rapidly changing world, torn between the expectations of his wealthy parents and his own desires. Along the way, he enters into an affair with the wife of his father's business associate, Mrs. Robinson, played by Anne Bancroft, and falls in love with her daughter Elaine, played by Katharine Ross.
"The Graduate" is a film that encapsulates the mood and atmosphere of the 1960s, a time of great cultural and social change in the United States. The film's central theme of youthful alienation and the struggle to find one's place in the world was seen as a reflection of the broader cultural and political climate of the time. With its witty, irreverent humor and clever use of music, "The Graduate" was widely regarded as a groundbreaking film that helped to usher in the New Hollywood era of filmmaking in the 1970s.
The film was a critical and commercial success, receiving numerous accolades and awards, including an Oscar for Best Director for Mike Nichols. "The Graduate" remains one of the most beloved and influential films of the 1960s, and is widely considered a classic of American cinema.
Some interesting facts about "The Graduate" include:
- The iconic Simon and Garfunkel soundtrack, which features the famous song "Mrs. Robinson," became a hit and helped to popularize the film.
- The film's use of the idea of "plastics" as a symbol of the shallow, consumerist culture of the 1960s is widely remembered and referenced in popular culture.
- Dustin Hoffman's portrayal of Benjamin Braddock was a breakthrough role for the actor, and helped to establish him as one of the leading actors of his generation.
- Mike Nichols' direction of "The Graduate" was seen as innovative and daring, and helped to set the stage for a new generation of filmmakers in Hollywood.
- The film's success helped to establish the career of screenwriter Buck Henry, who went on to write and direct several other successful films.
