Guide Note
The Graduate is a classic American film about a recent college graduate and his affair with an older, married woman.
The 1967 film is based on a novel of the same name by Charles Webb. The film version provided actor Dustin Hoffman with his breakthrough role as Benjamin Braddock, a part initially offered to Warren Beatty and Burt Ward. The film also boosted the popularity of folk-rock duo Simon and Garfunkel. The duo provided the film's chart-topping soundtrack album, which included the hit singles "Mrs. Robinson" and "The Sounds of Silence."
The film was adapted for the stage in 2000.
Fast Facts
- Release date: December 21, 1967
- Director: Mike Nichols
- Screenwriters: Calder Willingham and Buck Henry
- Starring: Dustin Hoffman, Anne Bancroft, and Katharine Ross
- Running Time: 105 minutes
- Based on the novel by Charles Webb
- Awards: Academy Award for Best Director; Golden Globe for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress (Bancroft); AFI Top 100 Films List
Quotes
- Mr. McGuire: I want to say one word to you. Just one word.
- Benjamin: Yes, sir.
- Mr. McGuire: Are you listening?
- Benjamin: Yes, I am.
- Mr. McGuire: Plastics.
- Benjamin: Just how do you mean that, sir?
- Mrs. Robinson: Benjamin, I am *not* trying to seduce you.
- Benjamin: I know that, but *please*, Mrs. Robinson, this is difficult...
- Mrs. Robinson: Would you like me to seduce you?
- Benjamin: What?
- Mrs. Robinson: Is that what you're trying to tell me?
- Benjamin: I'm going home now. I apologize for what I said. I hope you can forget it, but I'm going home right now.
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