The Intern 2015

Senior citizen Ben, Robert DeNiro, decides to shoot a video resume to apply for an intern position. Responding to a flyer that encourages senior citizens to upload a video highlighting why they should be hired, he explains that as a 70-year-old widower, he leads a comfortably routine life but longs to feel more productive. Soon enough, he receives a call inviting him for an interview.

The company is dubbed ‘About The Fit’, operated by Jules Ostin, Anne Hathaway. What began as a humble venture from her kitchen has blossomed into a booming online retail business with over 200 employees, having launched only 18 months prior. Jules is depicted as a dedicated leader, tackling everything from customer complaints to juggling her demanding responsibilities. One interaction highlights this as she receives a distressed call from a bride about her mismatched bridesmaids’ dresses, where she graciously accepts responsibility and provides her personal number for further convenience, showcasing her commitment to her clients. With her busy lifestyle, Jules rarely has the time for office celebrations or personal interactions, often riding her bike around the office.

During his interview, Ben shares that he once held a job at a company that produced phone books. An interviewer, Nat Wolff, questions him about his future aspirations in the next decade, only to quickly come to terms with the unlikeliness of such a query. He ultimately praises Ben for being overqualified for the role.

Unaware that Ben is destined to become her intern, Jules is informed by her co-worker Cameron, Andrew Rannels, of this prior agreement for the outreach program. Faced with the challenge of accommodating Ben, she is advised that her minimum commitment is six weeks, as it would be essential to set an example for others.

Dressed to impress on his first day, Ben discovers his work environment alongside three other interns, including two senior citizens, one of whom is Doris, played by Celia Watson, and a younger man named Davis, portrayed by Zack Pearl. While Davis’s table is cluttered with gadgets, Ben’s setup consists of a simple calculator and stationery. His new colleagues warmly welcome him and assist him in navigating the office tech.

When Ben receives an email from Jules’s assistant, Becky, he eagerly prepares for a meeting scheduled at 3:55 PM, with Becky emphasizing the need for punctuality as there’s another meeting lined up shortly afterward. During the meeting, Jules warns him that his tasks may be limited, but promises she’ll reach out if anything comes up.

Days pass without further communication from Jules; however, undeterred, Ben immerses himself in the workplace, learns about the technology, and assists colleagues. Cameron affectionately dubs him Mr. Congeniality for his affable nature. Ben dispenses old-fashioned wisdom to younger staff, advising Jason, Adam Devine, to approach Becky about fixing his relationship troubles after some evasive texting fails.

His inaugural task from Becky is to clean Jules’s jacket, which, despite her wearing it, has been stained with soy sauce. Amid discussions among the staff, Ben overhears worries that the fast-paced growth at “About The Fit” may require a more seasoned leader. Jules shares her anxiety about the prospect of hiring a CEO, and as the pressure mounts, Ben’s sagacious advice continues to permeate the office.

As Ben becomes a familiar face around the office, his efforts culminate in receiving recognition through an office bell for streamlining the cluttered desk that once plagued Jules. An office masseuse, Fiona, Renee Russo, draws his interest through a casual massage session, leading to amusing moments where Davis humorously misinterprets their interaction.

Ben takes the reins when Jules’s driver is incapacitated, surprising her with his adeptness. In their car rides, he listens to her blend of personal and work-related concerns, including an awkward phone call with her mother. During one exchange, he brings her soup, noticing her busy schedule and suggesting she take time to rest.

As the plot unfolds, viewers glimpse into Jules’s family life, characterized by her supportive husband Matt and daughter Paige. Complications arise, revealing that Matt may not be as committed as it seems; he’s seen harboring a relationship with another woman.

Jules navigates workplace challenges and family dynamics while leaning on Ben for guidance and companionship throughout her tumultuous experiences. Their bond deepens as they share details about their lives, ultimately leading to Jules offering Ben his old position back when the initial intern period concludes. Ben’s insights start reshaping the workplace, and his warm knack for connection flourishes as colleagues turn to him for advice.

Amidst professional upheavals and the unveiling of secrets, Jules grapples with personal disappointments both in her marriage and her career ambitions, causing her to reassess her priorities. When she finally confronts Matt about his infidelity, she experiences an emotional awakening that propels her toward a new direction for both her personal life and business goals.

Through Ben’s support, Jules realizes the importance of self-fulfillment over societal expectations, culminating in a fulfilling closure with her career aspirations and marital relationship. In the end, she finds peace not only in her decisions but in the genuine friendship forged with Ben, leading them both to new beginnings as they embark on a journey that honors their growth.