The Intern (2015)

The Intern (2015)

Available on YouTube, Amazon Prime, iTunes, Vudu

“The Intern” is a 2015 American comedy-drama film directed by Nancy Meyers. The movie revolves around a 70-year-old widower named Ben Whittaker (played by Robert De Niro), who becomes an intern at an online fashion company called About the Fit. Although his age and lack of technical knowledge make him the subject of ridicule by his younger colleagues, Ben quickly becomes a valuable asset to the company by sharing his experience and business acumen. As the movie progresses, it explores the stereotypes and prejudices associated with aging, particularly in the workplace. The film emphasizes the need for age diversity and the importance of recognizing the value of experience and wisdom that comes with age. The story also touches on themes of family, mentorship, and personal growth. Through his interactions with his colleagues, Ben learns to embrace the opportunities and challenges of a changing world while imparting his life lessons to the younger generation. Overall, “The Intern” is a feel-good film that challenges ageist stereotypes and encourages viewers to rethink their attitudes towards aging and the workplace.

US² Watchers Guide:

The following questions can be used as you watch through the movie to reflect on where your own personal biases can influence decisions made in your workplace or community and what you can do to prevent those biases from becoming explicit and impacting others.

• • What are some of the ageist stereotypes that the movie challenges? How does the movie encourage viewers to rethink their attitudes towards aging and the elderly?
  • Describe the relationship between Ben and Jules, his boss at About the Fit. How does their relationship evolve over the course of the movie? What life lessons does Ben impart to Jules, and how does she benefit from his wisdom?

• Discuss the importance of diversity in the workplace, including age diversity. What are some of the benefits of having a mix of different ages and experience levels in a workplace, and how can employers foster an inclusive environment that values people of all ages?
• What personal growth does Ben experience over the course of the movie? How does he learn to embrace change and adapt to a rapidly-evolving world, while still staying true to his values and principles?
• Discuss the role of family in the movie. How does Ben’s relationship with his daughter and grandson inform his interactions with his colleagues at About the Fit? What lessons can viewers learn about the importance of family, both biological and chosen?
• What advice would you give to someone who is struggling with age-related stereotypes and prejudices, either in the workplace or in their personal life? What steps can they take to challenge these stereotypes and build a more inclusive and equitable society?