The Intern (2015)

The Intern
⭐ 7.1/10 IMDb
Genre: Comedy Drama
Country: USA
Duration: 2h 1m | Year: 2015

Seventy-year-old widower Ben Whittaker soon realizes that retirement isn’t as fulfilling as he expected. Eager to reengage with the world, he jumps at the chance to join an online fashion company as a senior intern, working under its founder and CEO, Jules Ostin.

FriendshipMentorWorkplaceLove storyAdulteryPrejudiceDestinyMarital problemLife philosophyLonelinessLifeInternetFamily dramaCreativityUnlikely friendshipsBusinessEntrepreneurFashionEntrepreneurshipElderlyOfficeWorkplace situationsInternWebsiteComputers and web

Official Trailer • Courtesy of YouTube

Movie Team / Crew Detail

The Intern - Movie Crew Info

  • Director: Nancy Meyers
  • Producer: Nancy Meyers, Nancy Juvonen
  • Screenplay: Nancy Meyers
  • Cinematographer: Stephen Goldblatt
  • Editor: Joe Hutshing
  • Music Composer: Theodore Shapiro
  • Production Designer: John Shaffner
  • Costume Designer: Jeffery Kurland
  • Casting Director: Avy Kaufman
  • Sound Designer: David J. Kimball

Movie Summary

Ben Whittaker is a 70-year-old widower who feels restless after retiring from his long career. Looking for something meaningful to do, he applies to be a senior intern at an online fashion startup called About The Fit. The company is young, fast-paced, and run by the ambitious and talented founder, Jules Ostin. Though hesitant at first, Jules agrees to hire Ben, intrigued by his experience and calm demeanor.

Ben quickly adapts to this new environment, becoming a steady and reliable presence in the office. His old-school manners and wisdom endear him to his younger coworkers, and especially to Jules. While Jules is brilliant and passionate about her business, she struggles with balancing the pressures of running a growing company and managing her personal life, including her marriage and raising a young daughter.

As the weeks go by, Ben proves to be more than just an intern; he becomes a trusted friend and confidant to Jules. He offers her thoughtful advice, helping her solve problems both in business and life. His perspective, shaped by years of experience, helps Jules navigate difficult decisions and find a healthier balance. Meanwhile, Ben discovers that staying active and engaged in something he loves brings new purpose to his life.

Their relationship is heartwarming and genuine, showing the value of intergenerational friendship. Ben supports Jules through her challenges, including a tense conflict with a potential investor who questions her leadership. With Ben’s encouragement, Jules stands firm and stays true to her vision. The company faces ups and downs, but their partnership helps them grow stronger.

The movie also explores the lives of the quirky and diverse team at About The Fit, highlighting the dynamics of a modern workplace with humor and warmth. Ben’s presence brings a sense of calm and positivity that uplifts everyone around him.

By the end of the story, both Ben and Jules have learned important lessons. Ben finds renewed enthusiasm and a sense of belonging, while Jules gains confidence and realizes the importance of trusting others and taking time for herself. Their friendship proves that age is just a number and that people from different generations can learn a lot from each other.

The Intern is a feel-good film that combines comedy and heartfelt moments, celebrating friendship, mentorship, and the courage to embrace change at any stage of life. It’s about finding unexpected connections and the joy of working together to create something meaningful.

What This Movie Teaches Us

The Intern gently reminds us that life’s value isn’t bound by age. Through the heartfelt journey of Ben, a senior intern, the film teaches the beauty of human connection, humility, and lifelong learning. It shows that wisdom and experience enrich workplaces and relationships alike. Embracing change while honoring the past, the movie inspires viewers to appreciate every chapter of life, proving that it’s never too late to grow, contribute, and find purpose. It’s a touching celebration of empathy and second chances.

Awards & Nominations

Awards

  • People's Choice Awards (2016)
    Won: Favorite Comedic Movie

  • Teen Choice Awards (2015)
    Won: Choice Movie: Comedy

  • BMI Film & TV Awards (2016)
    Won: BMI Film Music Award for Rupert Gregson-Williams

  • Hollywood Film Awards (2015)
    Won: Hollywood Supporting Actress Award – Rene Russo

Each award highlights the film’s broad appeal and recognition in comedy and music composition.

Iconic Scenes

  1. Ben Whittaker’s first day at the startup: Dressed in a classic suit, Ben confidently strolls into the vibrant office, his calm presence contrasting with the buzzing young crowd, instantly earning smiles and nods.

  2. Ben teaching Jules how to ride a bike: In a sunlit park, Ben patiently guides Jules through shaky pedals, symbolizing trust and mentorship beyond work.

  3. The rooftop dinner scene: Warm city lights surround the team as laughter and heartfelt conversations flow, highlighting newfound bonds and personal growth.

Controversies

"The Intern" (2015), directed by Nancy Meyers, faced limited controversies or public debates. Some critics discussed its portrayal of age and gender roles, debating whether the film reinforced traditional stereotypes about older workers and women in the workplace. While largely praised for its positive message about intergenerational collaboration, a few reviewers pointed out that the film glossed over deeper systemic workplace issues such as discrimination or harassment. There were no significant censorship issues reported. Overall, criticism focused more on thematic and narrative elements rather than any public controversies or censorship challenges.