Benjamin Braddock (Dustin Hoffman) has returned home to consider his future. In the posh suburbs of California, this recent college grad and all-American contemplates his next step. Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft) is a bored housewife with straying eyes. Ben doesn't know what hit him as Mrs. Robinson seduces the naive boy. In time, Ben becomes less infatuated with Mrs. Robinson and more in love with Miss Robinson (Katharine Ross). Now, it's complicated.
The late Anne Bancroft is alluring and dangerous. Classy and all-too sexy, this cougar captivates her prey and the viewer. In his own landmark performance, Dustin Hoffman is fascinating to observe. The young Hoffman shows remarkable skills with simple glances and delivery of dialogue.
Mike Nichols' clear direction prevents the film from being contrived. Instead, there is a sincerity found in our characters and despite some age, The Graduate feels relevant today. Obviously, you'll find the film steeped in the decade. The sets and styling are quintessential 60s with it's refined suburban living, disconnected youth and matching sweater sets.
The dialogue and score are essential component of the film. Hoffman and Bancroft's banter is perfect, but the odd lines like "plastics" are just too great to miss. Simon and Garfunkel's soundtrack is beautiful, of course, and serves to further not only the story, but develop the characters.
It's way to easy to tell why The Graduate has become so iconic. It is the perfect story of character, story, dialogue, direction, and score. Now, the ending gets a little loosey-goosey. As Ben and his girl run off into the sunset... You're not sure if the laughter is hysterics or joy.
The Graduate is certainly deserving of it's place in cinematic history. If you're wanting a solid drama or just want to see the origin of greatness, this is your movie.
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