"Mrs. Robinson, if you don't mind my saying so, this conversation is getting a little strange."

Rating: 9/10 (29 April 2014)

I've waited so long to see this, and it was worth it. Dustin Hoffman is amazing, and such a versatile actor even when he was young. I could go on and on about how absolutely nothing in the film adds up correctly, but I won't because I think it somehow helps construct the odd sense of humor that's there. I will say, the one thing that bothers me the most is Ben's lack of self-motivation and reliance. He's "drifting" and he needs to rely on another person to give him direction. But, although this personally bothers me, it works with the story, and I'd say is rather part of the point. So parts are unrealistic, yes, but it's in such a way that's absolutely hilarious to the right taste. This is another one of those films that I think people think about too seriously—it's supposed to be funny!
The cinematography is great, as is the editing. There are a lot of famous examples in this film, and they don't disappoint. My personal favorite is the use of the deep space and focus when Ben is implying to Elaine that his affair was with her mother. The camera is pointed at her over Ben's shoulder, and then pulls focus to Mrs. Robinson's face and we see Elaine's realization as is comes slowly back. The editing had great continuity, as well as the more famous examples like the smooth transitions from Ben's house and pool to in bed with Mrs. Robinson.
The soundtrack is wonderful.