Thoughts about the movie “The Intern.”

Written by Caterina 2022 Cohort

I want to use this opportunity to introduce you to “The Intern,” one of my favourite movies.

The Intern is a comedy starring Anne Hathaway and Robert De Niro. What attracted me to it was the collaboration between two of my favourite actors and the fact that the story was about a 70-year-old man going to work as an intern at an Internet company. Knowing that Internet companies are often famous for their fast pace of work, I am very curious about how a 70-year-old intern should survive in this company.

Storyline (no spoilers):

The movie is about Ben, played by De Niro, going to Jules’ company as an intern. Ben is dressed quite modestly and has all the necessary things in his meticulous briefcase. Ben and Jules became good friends despite Jules first believing Ben was unqualified for any position. Ben, who has 40 years of professional expertise, helped Jules greatly in her professional and personal life.

My thoughts:

The American comedy genre gets thrown off in this film, but it still comes off as genuinely touching and leaves a different impression. The film’s entire plot is slow-paced, like a mother reading a child’s bedtime tale, and it gradually reveals how Ben influences Jules’ character rather than being like an action movie that rises and falls.

The film begins with one person practicing Tai Chi and ends with two doing Tai Chi together. Ben connects with his past self and brings that connection to Jules. And this connection provides us with a real sense of existence and continuity, allowing us to feel the power of time and life in the face of doubt and difficulty.  It gives us more of a sense of courage and strength.

The movie covers quite a lot of ground, even mentioning feminist overtones and how women in the workplace can handle the relationship between work and family. However, after watching “The Intern,” it is warm, relaxing and absolutely 100% comfortable. I think Ben is a 70-year-old young man. Many people are eager to have a friend who can guide them, bring them strength, and then a better life. Moreover, they don’t want to waste time and live life to the fullest, just like Ben and Jules.