The Graduate, again and again

Shouldn't this movie be required viewing for all 21-year-olds?  And then again at every major life stage we have?  I don't know of many films that hit me every time in the emotional gut quite like this one does.  Each time I see it, I see something new.  Whether it's the lack of a plan for a young person, detachment between generations, moral ambiguity about sex, love at first sight, just everything.

And each time I also watch it in a new way from a film-making and writing perspective.  The writing is spare and doesn't get in the way, which is a gift to this film, because the shot-making is superb.  Benjy in the shadows, Mrs. Robinson in profile and in the dark, shots of the monkey cage behind the fence "Do Not Tease" sign shown prominently, the use of water throughout, shots from Elaine's girlish perspective, Buck Henry framed by the front desk asking "Are you here for an affair?", and on and on. 

And then there's the sound track.  Of course, Simon and Garfunkel's lyrics are an integral part of the script and the music timed to the action is superb (when the car breaks down on the way to the church and the music slowly grinds to a stop - has that ever been repeated as well?).  But the real hidden art in this film is the use and lack of use of background noise.  Benjy underwater for minutes - no noise - we're trapped with him.  Complete silence in other parts juxtaposed with the Sound of Silence.  And the car traffic, TV, toast popping, rhythmic pounding on the glass in the church - take each scene to a different level. 

What can I say.  I'm a huge fan.  Thanks, Mike Nichols.