Released in 2019, The Intern is a delightful comedy-drama film that explores themes of friendship, career transitions, and personal growth. Directed by Nancy Meyers, the film stars Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, two seasoned actors who bring their characters to life in a story that touches the hearts of audiences worldwide. While it’s light-hearted in its tone, The Intern offers meaningful reflections on aging, generational differences, and the changing dynamics of modern workplaces.
With a stellar cast, a charming script, and a refreshing storyline, The Intern stands out as one of the most heartwarming Hollywood films of the year. If you’re looking to watch or download this feel-good movie, this article will guide you through the plot, key characters, themes, and how to enjoy The Intern at your convenience.
About the Movie
- Title: The Intern
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- Language: English
- Director: Nancy Meyers
- Release Year: 2019
- Run Time: 2 hours 1 minute
- Main Cast:
- Robert De Niro as Ben Whittaker
- Anne Hathaway as Jules Ostin
- Rene Russo as Fiona
- Andrew Rannells as Cameron
- Nat Wolff as Jason
- Adam DeVine as Dave
- Zack Pearlman as Matt
Plot Summary
The Intern follows the life of Ben Whittaker (Robert De Niro), a 70-year-old widower who feels that retirement has left him with little purpose. He applies for a senior internship position at an e-commerce fashion startup company run by Jules Ostin (Anne Hathaway), a young and successful CEO. Initially, Ben’s age and experience seem to be a disadvantage in the fast-paced digital world of the company, but his calm demeanor, wisdom, and willingness to help soon make him an invaluable asset to the team.
Jules, while initially skeptical about having an older intern, begins to appreciate Ben’s old-school charm, work ethic, and life experience. As Ben provides support to Jules in both her professional and personal life, they develop a deep, platonic friendship that transcends the generational divide.
Through their growing bond, the movie highlights the value of mentorship and mutual respect, showcasing how people of different generations can learn from each other. Ben’s presence at the company provides guidance not only to Jules but also to the younger staff members, including Fiona (Rene Russo), the company’s human resources manager, who develops a romantic interest in him.
While Ben finds his place in a modern, fast-paced world, Jules faces challenges of her own—balancing the demands of her growing company, her responsibilities as a mother, and her relationship with her husband. The movie explores her internal struggle as she navigates the pressures of work and family life, making The Intern a film that resonates with anyone juggling multiple roles.
Key Themes Explored in The Intern
- Generational Differences and Friendship
- At its core, The Intern is about how two people from different generations can build a meaningful and supportive relationship. Ben’s wisdom and experience provide Jules with guidance and perspective, while Jules’ fresh approach to business and technology offers Ben a glimpse into the modern world. Their relationship proves that age is just a number, and the barriers between generations can be overcome with mutual respect and understanding.
- Mentorship and Personal Growth
- The film highlights the importance of mentorship, not just for professional success but for personal development as well. Ben becomes a mentor not only to Jules but also to the young interns at the company. Through their interactions, the movie emphasizes how valuable experience, patience, and kindness can be in both work and life. Ben’s ability to help others grow while simultaneously learning from them showcases the power of cross-generational exchanges.
- Work-Life Balance
- The Intern addresses the pressures of modern work culture, particularly for women who are trying to balance career ambitions with family responsibilities. Jules faces challenges in managing her startup while being a mother and wife. The film offers a nuanced look at the challenges women face in leadership positions and the sacrifices they often make in order to juggle their personal and professional lives.
- The Value of Experience
- One of the central themes in The Intern is the idea that life experience is an invaluable resource. Ben’s decades of experience in business, combined with his ability to listen and provide thoughtful advice, make him a mentor to those around him. The film showcases how older generations have a wealth of knowledge that can still be incredibly valuable in today’s fast-paced world, challenging the common notion that only youth is the source of innovation.
- Self-Discovery and Reinvention
- For Ben, The Intern is also a story of self-discovery and reinvention. After his retirement, Ben feels that his life lacks purpose, but through his internship at the startup, he finds new meaning and fulfillment. The movie emphasizes that it’s never too late to start something new or pursue a different path in life, no matter your age.
Why You Should Watch The Intern (2019)
- Heartwarming and Uplifting
- The Intern is a feel-good film that offers warmth, humor, and a positive outlook on life. Whether you’re seeking a comedy to lift your spirits or a film with meaningful life lessons, The Intern provides both. It’s a perfect choice for anyone who enjoys stories about personal growth, overcoming challenges, and forging unlikely friendships.
- Powerful Performances
- The movie’s success is largely attributed to the stellar performances of Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway. De Niro’s portrayal of Ben Whittaker is both charming and endearing, capturing the nuances of an older man finding new purpose in life. Hathaway’s performance as Jules is equally captivating, as she brings depth and relatability to the role of a woman trying to balance ambition and personal life.
- Timely Themes
- The Intern is especially relevant today, as the workforce continues to become more diverse in terms of age, experience, and background. The film highlights how people of all ages can contribute to a successful work environment and that mentorship can be a two-way street, with both young and old benefitting from the exchange of ideas and knowledge.
- A Positive Take on Modern Work Culture
- In an era where hustle culture and burnout are frequently discussed, The Intern presents a refreshing alternative: a work environment that values both experience and youthful innovation. The film offers a balanced perspective on work, highlighting the importance of personal connections, work-life balance, and emotional intelligence in the workplace.
Where to Watch or Download The Intern (2019)
- Streaming Services
- The Intern is available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. You can stream it with a subscription or rent it for a one-time viewing.
- Digital Purchase or Rental
- If you prefer to own a copy of the film, The Intern is available for purchase or rental through platforms like iTunes, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Download it to watch it anytime, anywhere.
- DVD/Blu-ray
- For collectors, The Intern is available on DVD and Blu-ray. You can purchase it through online retailers or at your local store for your movie collection.
- Cable On-Demand
- Many cable providers offer The Intern through their on-demand services. You can rent or purchase the movie directly from your TV provider.
Fun Facts About the Movie
- Robert De Niro’s Commitment: Although Robert De Niro is known for his intense and often dramatic roles, his portrayal of Ben Whittaker marked a departure from his usual characters. The film gave him the opportunity to showcase his comedic side, which he did to great effect.
- Cameo Appearances: The film features cameo appearances by several famous actors in smaller roles, including actor Adam DeVine as one of the company’s employees.
Conclusion
The Intern (2019) is a heartwarming and enjoyable film that explores themes of mentorship, personal growth, and generational connection. With strong performances from Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, a well-crafted story, and a positive message about life’s second acts, this film has earned its place as one of the best feel-good movies of recent years.
If you want to watch or download The Intern (2019), it’s available on streaming platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, or for digital purchase through services like Google Play Movies and iTunes. Whether you’re looking for a light comedy or an inspiring story about self-discovery, The Intern will surely leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.
