Fresh and Funny

Rating: 8/10 (22 April 2015)

This movie definitely takes a different approach from movies in the past but provides a fresh and humorous view of an adulterous relationship. As Ben becomes entangled with the provocative Mrs. Robinson his emotions take him on a roller coaster ride of highs and lows. Add to the mix, Mrs. Robinson's beautiful daughter Elaine and dear Ben becomes a frantic mess. Eventually Ben realizes that it's time to step out of the manipulative shadows of the adults and follow his heart. There are many clever shots throughout the movie, especially Mrs Robinson's bent leg framing Ben and the underwater swimming pool scenes and the dialogue is witty and funny. An abundance of water is also seen in this film and I was curious to the symbolism regarding all the water; I googled it and one theory suggests that the water is the womb and Ben as a recent grad going through an existential crisis is reluctant to come out of the water and leave the womb. My feelings are that the water represents the innocence of youth which Ben clearly had until Mrs. Robinson decided to make a man out of him. Well written and beautifully filmed it is definitely a must see.