The Graduate

1967 1 hr 46 min

PG

Dustin Hoffman’s breakthrough role finds him playing a recent college graduate lacking direction who becomes sexually involved with a friend of his parents, the seductive and older Mrs. Robinson. THE GRADUATE is a coming-of-age film boasting a clever script and featuring a tremendously inventive use of Simon & Garfunkel’s music and impeccable acting from both Hoffman and Anne Bancroft. The impact of this generation-defining film is still felt to this day.

Emerging in the folk rock music scene in the late ‘60s, filmmaker Mike Nichols approached Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel to seek permission to license their music for THE GRADUATE. Concerned about selling out, the duo was initially hesitant, but changed their minds after hearing Nichols' proposal. They contributed their most famous songs at the time (“The Sound of Silence” and “Scarborough Fair”) and also recorded three new singles for the film, including the now-iconic “Mrs. Robinson.” While the film features instrumental pieces by composer Dave Grusin, it is the contemporary sound of Simon & Garfunkel that marked a significant milestone in film scoring through the integration of original pop music, playing a crucial role in the film's narrative. The enduring influence of this soundtrack is evident in both the film and music industries, as seen in notable films like SATURDAY NIGHT FEVER, PULP FICTION, and PURPLE RAIN, which incorporate popular music into their narratives.

Director Mike Nichols

Cast Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft, Katharine Ross

Country USA

Language English

Aspect 2.35

More info on IMDB ››