“Mrs. Robinson, you’re trying to seduce me. Aren’t you?”
Benjamin Braddock, The Graduate
A scholar student, Benjamin, who just graduated from college comes to stay with his family. Tired by their high expectations for him, Benjamin finds solace in the wife of his father’s business partner, Mrs. Robinson. Further complications set in when he ultimately falls for her daughter, Elaine.
What did I like?
The movie starts with the infamous song ‘The Sound of Silence’ by the duo Simon and Garfunkel. The opening scene of the movie is so powerful in its entirety. The first three minutes of the movie are only focused on Dustin Hoffman’s face, which are devoid of any emotion. The audience does not know what to think or how to feel for him. I found this very interesting.
Throughout the movie, many Simon and Garfunkel songs including Scarborough Fair, Mrs. Robinson and April Come She Will made an appearance. These songs strongly enhanced the emotions of the film.
*spoilers ahead*
This movie is perhaps best known for its ending scene.
As soon as Benjamin makes Elaine run from her wedding chapel with him, they both are overcome with an adrenaline rush. However, as soon as they sit on the bus, their expressions grow solemn. They avoid eye contact and sit rigidly next to each other before we see the roll credits. The scene holds a great significance in the movie as it deals with the question of ‘what now?‘.
Benjamin and Elaine listened to their hearts and ran away in a haste to defy their parents, but realisation dawns upon them as soon as they accomplish their task.
This entire scene was so strong and perhaps the sole reason why I love this movie as much as I do.
Conclusion?
You will be singing Simon and Garfunkel songs for months after watching this movie.
Posters on my Wall 