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The Making of ‘The Graduate’: A Cinematic Masterpiece Unveiled
Summary of ‘The Graduate’
Released in 1967, “The Graduate” quickly became a cultural touchstone, capturing the zeitgeist of a generation with its sharp wit, iconic performances, and groundbreaking direction. The film tells the story of Benjamin Braddock (Dustin Hoffman), a recent college graduate who returns home with no clear direction for his future. His life turns unexpectedly when he becomes entangled in an affair with Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft), the seductive wife of his father’s business partner. As Benjamin struggles with this illicit relationship, he falls for Mrs. Robinson’s daughter, Elaine (Katharine Ross), leading to a tumultuous and ultimately redemptive climax.
Origins and Development of the Script
Charles Webb’s Novel
“The Graduate” originated from the 1963 novel by the same name, written by Charles Webb. Webb, a recent graduate of Williams College, drew inspiration from his own experiences and observations of post-college life. The novel follows the story of Benjamin Braddock, a disaffected young man who embarks on an affair with Mrs. Robinson, the wife of his father’s business partner, before ultimately falling in love with her daughter, Elaine. Webb’s novel offered a raw and unflinching look at the disillusionment and aimlessness faced by many young adults in the 1960s, resonating with readers and critics alike.
Adaptation to Screenplay
The adaptation of “The Graduate” from novel to screenplay was a collaborative effort between screenwriters Calder Willingham and Buck Henry. After reading the book and recognizing its potential to capture the era’s zeitgeist, Director Mike Nichols was drawn to the project. Willingham, known for his work on films like “Paths of Glory” and “The Vikings,” brought a keen understanding of character development and thematic resonance to the script. Henry, a comedic genius and burgeoning talent in Hollywood, infused the screenplay with his trademark wit and irreverence, elevating the dialogue and adding complexity to the characters.
Mike Nichols’s Vision
Director Mike Nichols played a pivotal role in shaping the script and bringing it to life on screen. Nichols, who had made a name for himself in the world of theater with productions like “Barefoot in the Park” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf ?” was known for his keen insight into human nature and ability to elicit nuanced performances from actors. His vision for “The Graduate” was clear from the outset: to create a film that captured the tumultuous spirit of the 1960s while exploring universal themes of love, identity, and rebellion.
Collaboration and Revision
The collaborative nature of the filmmaking process led to several revisions of the script as Nichols, Willingham, and Henry worked together to fine-tune the dialogue, structure, and character arcs. Nichols encouraged improvisation on set, allowing actors to bring their interpretations to the script and infuse the dialogue with authenticity and spontaneity. This collaborative approach resulted in a screenplay that felt fresh, dynamic, and accurate to the novel’s spirit while incorporating uniquely cinematic elements.
Cultural Context and Reception
“The Graduate” premiered in 1967, at a time of profound social and cultural upheaval in the United States. The film’s exploration of themes such as alienation, disillusionment, and generational conflict struck a chord with audiences, particularly young adults who saw themselves reflected in Benjamin’s journey. Critics praised the film’s sharp satire, groundbreaking direction, and standout performances, catapulting it to commercial and critical success. “The Graduate” became a cultural touchstone, emblematic of a generation grappling with the complexities of love, ambition, and societal expectations.
Legacy and Influence
“The Graduate” remains a seminal work in American cinema, celebrated for its innovative storytelling, iconic imagery, and timeless themes. The film’s influence can be seen in subsequent generations of filmmakers who have drawn inspiration from its style, tone, and narrative structure. From its groundbreaking use of music to its candid portrayal of sexuality and existential angst, “The Graduate” continues to resonate with audiences across the globe, cementing its status as a classic of the silver screen.
Casting Decisions and Their Impact
Dustin Hoffman as Benjamin Braddock
The Audition: Dustin Hoffman’s journey to becoming Benjamin Braddock was extraordinary. Hoffman, primarily a stage actor, felt like an underdog in the audition process. Competing against traditionally handsome actors like Robert Redford and Warren Beatty, Hoffman thought he didn’t fit the mold of a Hollywood leading man. During his audition, he was so nervous that he fumbled his lines and knocked over a glass of water. However, Mike Nichols saw something unique in Hoffman’s vulnerability and awkwardness, believing it embodied Benjamin’s character more authentically than any polished performance could. This decision was pivotal, as it set a new precedent for casting unconventional actors in leading roles, paving the way for more diverse representations of characters in cinema.
Impact: Hoffman’s portrayal of Benjamin was groundbreaking. His everyman appearance and relatable insecurity resonated deeply with audiences, making Benjamin a symbol of youthful disillusionment. This role launched Hoffman’s career and challenged Hollywood’s conventional male beauty and charisma standards, influencing casting choices for decades.
Anne Bancroft as Mrs. Robinson
Transformative Performance: Anne Bancroft’s casting as Mrs. Robinson added a profound depth to the character. Despite being only six years older than Hoffman, Bancroft’s performance exuded a world-weary sophistication and a predatory charm that defined Mrs. Robinson’s complex persona. The filmmakers used makeup and wardrobe strategically to age her character, further enhancing the believability of her role. Bancroft’s ability to balance the character’s seductive nature with a palpable sense of regret and vulnerability made Mrs. Robinson one of the film’s most iconic and multi-dimensional characters.
Impact: Bancroft’s performance broke new ground for female characters in Hollywood, portraying a woman who defies traditional norms and societal expectations. Her role as Mrs. Robinson became a cultural icon, symbolizing both the allure and the pitfalls of forbidden relationships. Bancroft’s nuanced portrayal influenced future generations of actresses, encouraging more complex and varied roles for women in cinema.
Katharine Ross as Elaine Robinson
Fresh-Faced Innocence: Katharine Ross’s portrayal of Elaine Robinson brought a refreshing contrast to the film. Her character’s innocence and purity stood in stark contrast to Mrs. Robinson’s jaded demeanor. Ross’s chemistry with Hoffman made the love triangle believable and emotionally compelling. Her performance added complexity to the narrative, as Elaine became the focal point of Benjamin’s redemption and desire for genuine love.
Impact: Ross’s portrayal of Elaine counterbalanced the film’s darker themes, offering hope and a sense of possibility. Her role highlighted the generational gap and the clash between youthful idealism and adult cynicism. This dynamic contributed to the film’s depth, making it not just a story about a forbidden affair but a broader commentary on the struggles of finding one’s identity and purpose.
Notable Considerations and Rejections
Robert Redford’s Screen Test: Robert Redford, a golden boy of Hollywood, was initially considered for the role of Benjamin. During his screen test, Redford’s natural confidence and charisma made him seem too polished and self-assured for the character. Mike Nichols famously asked Redford if he had ever struck out with a girl, to which Redford replied, “What do you mean?” This exchange underscored Redford’s unsuitability for the role, as Benjamin needed to embody a sense of awkwardness and vulnerability that Redford couldn’t portray.
Charles Grodin and Warren Beatty: Other notable actors, such as Charles Grodin and Warren Beatty, were also considered for Benjamin. Despite his talent, Grodin was ultimately passed over due to financial disagreements. On the other hand, Beatty was already a star, and his established persona did not align with the character’s inexperience and uncertain nature. These casting decisions highlighted Mike Nichols’s commitment to authenticity and willingness to take risks to ensure the perfect fit for each role.
Trivia
Simon & Garfunkel Soundtrack: The film’s soundtrack, featuring Simon & Garfunkel’s music, played a crucial role in its success. Initially, Mike Nichols planned to use existing songs from various artists. However, he found that Simon & Garfunkel’s music, especially the song “The Sound of Silence,” perfectly captured the film’s themes of alienation and confusion. The song “Mrs. Robinson” was written specifically for the film, becoming an anthem for a generation and forever linking the duo’s music with the movie’s legacy.
Original Novel: Charles Webb’s novel, on which the film is based, was written shortly after he graduated from Williams College. Webb’s book provides a raw and honest depiction of the post-college malaise and societal pressures young adults face. Buck Henry and Calder Willingham’s screenplay expertly translated these themes to the screen.
Buck Henry Cameo: Screenwriter Buck Henry’s cameo as the hotel clerk adds a layer of meta-humor to the film. Henry’s deadpan delivery and oblivious assistance to Benjamin’s illicit activities provide a subtle critique of societal norms and the often unnoticed complicity in immoral behavior.
Innovative Camera Work: Cinematographer Robert Surtees employed innovative techniques to enhance the film’s storytelling. Long lenses created a voyeuristic feel, while extreme close-ups emphasized Benjamin’s isolation and internal turmoil. These visual choices contributed to the film’s distinctive style and ability to display and illustrate emotions through film imagery.
Oscar Wins and Nominations: “The Graduate” was a critical darling, receiving seven Academy Award nominations and winning Best Director for Mike Nichols. The film’s success at the Oscars cemented its status as a landmark in American cinema, recognizing its artistic achievements and cultural impact.
Age Difference: Anne Bancroft’s performance as Mrs. Robinson was so convincing that audiences often forgot the small age gap between her and Hoffman. The makeup and costume design teams did an exceptional job aging Bancroft, highlighting her character’s predatory nature and the power imbalance in her relationship with Benjamin.
Elaine’s Wedding Scene: The climactic wedding scene was shot in a real church in La Verne, California. The chaos and emotion captured in this scene were heightened by using actual churchgoers as extras, adding to the authenticity and spontaneity of the moment.
Hoffman’s Height: Dustin Hoffman’s height posed a unique challenge during filming. At 5’6″, he was shorter than many of his co-stars. The filmmakers used various tricks, such as platform shoes and strategic camera angles, to minimize the height discrepancies, ensuring that Hoffman’s physical stature did not detract from his powerful performance.
Career Launch: “The Graduate” was a launching pad for Dustin Hoffman’s illustrious career. His portrayal of Benjamin Braddock showcased his extraordinary talent and versatility, leading to a prolific career that included iconic roles in films such as “Midnight Cowboy,” “Kramer vs. Kramer,” and “Rain Man.”
Censorship Issues: The film’s candid depiction of extramarital affairs and its explicit content faced censorship challenges in various countries. Despite these hurdles, “The Graduate” managed to retain its provocative edge and became a symbol of the changing social mores of the 1960s.
Original Ending: The ambiguous ending, where Benjamin and Elaine sit silently on the bus, was a deliberate choice by Mike Nichols. This unconventional conclusion left audiences contemplating the characters’ future and reflected the uncertainty and disillusionment many young people of the era felt. Robinson’s Seduction Scene: The seduction scene between Mrs. Robinson and Benjamin is one of cinema’s most memorable. Much of the dialogue was improvised, capturing the genuine discomfort and awkwardness between the characters. Bancroft’s assertiveness and Hoffman’s nervous energy created an authentic and electrifying dynamic.
Plastic Speech: A family friend’s “plastics” speech, delivered at Benjamin’s graduation party, became a cultural touchstone. It encapsulated the superficiality and materialism of the era, resonating with audiences and becoming one of the film’s most quoted lines.
Cameo of Future Star: Richard Dreyfuss, who later became a major Hollywood star, made an uncredited cameo as a boarding house student. His brief appearance is a fun Easter egg for fans and a glimpse of his future potential.
Hoffman’s Audition: Hoffman’s belief that he bombed his audition adds a layer of irony to his casting. His genuine nervousness and lack of confidence mirrored Benjamin’s character, making him an ideal fit for the role despite his initial doubts.
Improvised Moments: Many of the film’s iconic moments were improvised. For instance, Hoffman’s famous pounding on the glass at the church was not in the original script. This spontaneity added a layer of authenticity and unpredictability to the film, enhancing its emotional impact.
Elaine’s College: The use of Berkeley as Elaine’s college added a layer of realism and context to the film. Berkeley, known for its activism and intellectual environment, provided a fitting backdrop for Elaine’s character and the broader themes of youthful rebellion and idealism.
Method Acting: Hoffman’s method acting style created a charged atmosphere on set. His commitment to inhabiting Benjamin’s character, including staying in character off-camera, added depth to his performance and influenced his co-stars’ performances.
Hoffman’s First Love Scene: Filming his first on-screen love scene was a daunting experience for Hoffman. His visible nervousness and inexperience added to the authenticity of Benjamin’s character, making the scene more relatable and impactful.
Cultural Impact: “The Graduate” captured the spirit of the 1960s, resonating with audiences and becoming a defining film of the decade. Its themes of alienation, rebellion, and the search for identity struck a chord with a generation grappling with similar issues, cementing its place in cinematic history.
Goofs
Continuity Error with Scuba Gear: In the iconic pool scene, Benjamin’s scuba gear, including his tank and mask, changes position between shots. This continuity error, though minor, is noticeable upon close inspection and adds a touch of unintentional humor to the scene.
Visible Crew: During the scene where Benjamin first enters the Robinsons’ home, a crew member’s reflection can be seen in the glass door. This goof breaks the immersion momentarily, reminding viewers of the filmmaking process behind the scenes.
Elaine’s Hairstyle: In the scene where Elaine and Benjamin drive away from the wedding, Elaine’s hairstyle changes abruptly. This continuity error is jarring, as her hair goes from neatly styled to messy in seconds, indicating a lapse in continuity monitoring during filming.
License Plate Changes: The license plate on Benjamin’s car inexplicably changes between scenes. This goof is a classic example of a prop oversight that can occur in the hustle of filmmaking.
Hotel Clerk’s Button: The position of a button on the hotel clerk’s uniform shifts between shots when Benjamin checks in to arrange his meetings with Mrs. Robinson. Such minor continuity errors are common but can be amusing for eagle-eyed viewers.
Drink Level: In the hotel bar scene, the liquid level in Benjamin’s glass changes inconsistently. This continuity error is particularly noticeable during close-up shots and highlights the challenges of maintaining consistent props during extended takes.
Lighting Changes: The lighting in the bedroom during Benjamin and Mrs. Robinson’s first encounter shifts noticeably between shots. These changes can affect the mood and tone of the scene, revealing the complexities of on-set lighting management.
Telephone Discrepancy: The telephone on Benjamin’s nightstand changes position and model type during different scenes. This continuity error is a subtle but clear indication of the challenges in maintaining set consistency throughout a film’s production.
Church Door Error: During the dramatic wedding scene, the position of the church doors changes when Benjamin is pounding on the glass. This goof is noticeable during the intense climax and can momentarily distract from the scene’s emotional impact.
Watch on Wrong Hand: Benjamin’s wristwatch switches from his left to right wrist between scenes without explanation. This continuity error is subtle but noticeable for attentive viewers, showcasing the intricacies of character wardrobe continuity.
Conclusion
“The Graduate” remains a timeless classic not only for its compelling narrative and innovative direction but also for the fortunate and bold choices that went into its making. From the unconventional casting of Dustin Hoffman to the iconic soundtrack by Simon & Garfunkel, each element of the film contributes to its enduring legacy.
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