A timeless cinematic treasure is about to grace the world of streaming without costing a penny.
First gracing the silver screen in 1967, this film has since solidified its status as an unassailable titan of Tinseltown, propelling one of America’s most revered actors to the zenith of fame.
Devotees of film can brace themselves to access it through BBC iPlayer, free of charge, starting from Saturday, 12th April.
The film spins the yarn of a disoriented 21-year-old graduate ensnared by the allure of a mature woman, only to tumble into romance with her daughter.
Boasting what’s hailed as one of cinema’s most memorable finales and underscored by the iconic tunes of Simon and Garfunkel, it’s unmistakable we’re discussing The Graduate.
Helmed by Mike Nichols, this gem ushered Dustin Hoffman into the limelight, sharing the frame with the peerless Anne Bancroft and Katharine Ross.
Even after fifty-odd years, connoisseurs continue to revere this defiant rom-com as a standout of the ’60s, with The Graduate aging like fine wine.
One enthusiastic Rotten Tomatoes reviewer awarded it four stars, commenting: “A near perfect film I wish I liked just a little bit more.
“Very interesting to see a very intimate, personal story shot in anamorphic widescreen. Accurately captures the struggle of legally being an adult while still functioning as a kid in the world you grew up in.”
One reviewer gave the film a glowing five-star review on Letterboxd, gushing: “I was worried this wouldn’t hold up on a rewatch but it really does. Feels like the first time again every time I watch it.
“The cinematography is so beautiful, spaces are either too big or too small for Benjamin. Just wanted more Mrs. Robinson.”
A fan on Google raved about the film: “The Graduate is a brilliant piece of cinema. I’ve watched it many times over the years, and nearly 60 years after its release it remains in my top 10 best films ever made of all time.
“If I could give it 10 stars, I would… The plot of The Graduate remains 100% relevant today, nearly 60 years later. It will be 1060 years from now.
“The Graduate is perfect, as no one in their right mind would change a thing.”
Another fan wrote: “Watched several times over the last 54 years and I still find it utterly compelling.
“It is interesting to me to review my interpretation of the movie at each 15 year interval of my own life. Now well on it brings back a lot of good memories; the storyline still makes me squirm with embarrassment at places, and music utterly delights.
“Classic top 10 movie of all time and seriously broke the mold and captured an essential era.”
Fans of cinema, don’t pass up this chance to stream one of the 20th century’s greatest films for free.
The Graduate is available to stream on BBC iPlayer from Saturday, 12th April.