The Graduate

Of all the films we have watched, I have definitely enjoyed The Graduate the most. For a 1967 film, Mike Nichols pushes the limits of the characters and storyline, and grabs the viewer's intention. This was intriguing because movies before The Graduate, had set boundaries. The idea of the main character, Benjamin Braddock, engaging in a sexual relationship with a much older woman certainly breaks those norms. This relationship made the movie such a success by targeting the rebellious youth culture of the 1960's. In their relationship, Mrs. Robinson has a lot of authority and power over Benjamin, partly because of her older age. The changing role of women is also reflected in Elaine's ability to make her own decisions, apart from those of her parent's. Elaine flat out rejects Benjamin at first, however they do end up getting married, which still represents the need for women to live up their role as females. Elaine was confident and interested in her self-fulfillment to step down from the alter and run away and marry Benjamin. The scene of them on the city bus can be interpreted in a few ways, but I like to think of it as a happy ending. They have both done what their parents expected to never happen, and they seem joyful and giddy as they stare out the window. Their facial expressions fluctuate over the next minute and seem to be saying, 'What happens now?'.  I believe the faces aren't expressing any regret but rather shock, and they are truly happy. This is a powerful scene as it is left to the viewer's interpretation.