Mrs. Robbins
Period 3 Film Analysis
10/10/14
If someone were to look for this movie in the library, it would be in the "comedy" section. A majority of those who watch this movie would laugh and agree. However, for a comedy, there is a serious lack of happiness by the characters. Ben goes from stressed, to more stressed, to a bit more relaxed, to annoyed, and many more emotions. The only two scenes where he is truly happy are when he is on his date with Elaine and after he stole her from the wedding. Mrs. Robinson's thirst for power keeps her from ever being happy, whether she has Ben wrapped around her finger or not. Elaine seems dissatisfied for most of the movie, and when she's not dissatisfied or on a date with Ben, she's annoyed or confused. True happiness is not a reoccurring part of this romantic comedy, which is truly odd. It is certainly a classic, and this attribute might make it what it is, but it is one of a kind. The themes of depression and loneliness make for a new experience for a viewer. I just think it's odd for a comedy to have little happiness experienced by the characters.
I completely agree. I have never thought of this film as a comedy. I view it as a serious drama with some comedic moments. This is not, of course, to take away from the film. I think that the two genres live in veritable harmony inside the body of Nichols' camera. Of course, the movie would probably seem more like a comedy than a drama were it not for the soundtrack.
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