Critically analyse the opening sequence of Mike Nichols "The Graduate"(1968)

"I want to say just one word to you-just one word. Yes sir. Are you listening? Yes I am. Plastics." -Mr McGuire to Benjamin Braddock, "The Graduate"(1967) "The Graduate", directed by Mike Nichols and starring Dustin Hoffman and Anne Bancroft , was released in 1967 to a generally rapturous reception. Along with "Bonnie and Clyde"- which was released in the same year- "The Graduate" captured the sprit of the times and heralded a new era in …

…exploitable and directionless younger generation) are hinted at heavily in the short conversation between Benjamin and his father in shot five. Nichols also makes great use of imagery; the clown portrait, the suitcase and the diver in the tank all represent Benjamin and how he is seen by his family(the clown) and how he feels(the diver). Overall "The Graduate" uses its opening sequence to set up character and themes to great effect. 1524 words