The Graduate - Camera Angles

Mike Nichols uses different camera angles masterfully in "The Graduate" to enhance his scenes and to portray characters in different ways. For example, high angle shots are often used to show a character in an inferior position or mood, where he or she is not the one dominating the conversation or having their way. This is shown below in a conversation between Benjamin Braddock and Mrs. Robinson. Mrs. Robinson is trying to have her way, and as he put it, she is trying to "seduce" Benjamin. She is in a position of power, and is shown in a low angle shot in order to portray this (also shown below). Benjamin is shown frequently in high angle shots throughout the film, as he is often on the defensive side of conversations and interactions. Mrs. Robinson is usually shown in a low angle shot in her encounters with Benjamin because she mostly dominates him and gives him orders throughout the movie. Benjamin's lower position is confirmed when he unconfidently says, "Mrs. Robinson, you're trying to seduce me.... Aren't you?" at the end of this scene. This is fitting, as the main plot of the story, and especially the ending, are centered around Benjamin and Elaine growing up and taking charge of their own lives. Since the scene I referenced (which is shown below) is earlier in the movie, I believe it serves as great evidence of character growth and plot progression with the use of different camera angles. Overall, this is very well utilized by Mike Nichols.

^High Angle Shot^

^Low Angle Shot^