Nancy Meyers’ The Intern is a heartwarming dramedy that mixes workplace comedy with a thoughtful exploration of aging, friendship, and purpose. It stars Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway in roles that showcase their chemistry and nuance. Below is a full analysis of the film, complete with key details, spoilers, and everything you might want to know.
Detailed Summary
Ben Whittaker’s New Chapter
The film begins with Ben Whittaker (Robert De Niro), a 70-year-old widower, who finds retirement unsatisfying. Craving purpose and structure, he applies to a “senior intern program” at an e-commerce fashion startup called About the Fit, run by young, overworked CEO Jules Ostin (Anne Hathaway).
Jules Ostin, the Reluctant Mentor
Jules is a visionary but also a perfectionist and micromanager, juggling work and family. At first, she doesn’t know what to do with Ben, assigning him trivial tasks. But his patience, charm, and old-school work ethic slowly win over not just the office staff but Jules herself. He fixes problems quietly, shows up early, dresses impeccably, and even brings handkerchiefs (which ends up becoming symbolic).
Ben as the Office Anchor
Ben becomes a surrogate father and mentor figure to many of the younger employees. He chauffeurs Jules when her driver proves unreliable, teaches his colleagues workplace etiquette, and offers life advice. The workplace dynamic shifts as Jules starts leaning on Ben more, realizing that his decades of experience aren’t obsolete but invaluable.
Cracks in Jules’ Personal Life
Amid her professional triumphs, Jules struggles with her home life. Her husband, Matt (Anders Holm), is a stay-at-home dad caring for their daughter. While he initially seems supportive, it becomes clear that Jules’ overwhelming workload has strained their marriage. Ben witnesses this struggle firsthand but remains discreet, never judging, only listening.
Movie Ending
The climax comes when Jules is pressured by investors to hire an experienced CEO to replace her as head of About the Fit. Torn between her ambition and her marriage, she contemplates stepping down to “save” her family.
The turning point arrives when she discovers Matt has been unfaithful. Devastated, she considers resigning to focus on her marriage, even though the company is her passion and vision. Ben, however, encourages her to truly think about what she wants, not what others expect of her.
In the final act, Jules confronts Matt, who admits his affair but expresses his willingness to work on their relationship. Jules decides to remain as CEO, acknowledging her talent and right to lead while also committing to repairing her marriage on her own terms.
The last scene is quiet but powerful: Ben takes a break in the park, doing tai chi, symbolizing balance and peace. Jules joins him, and the two share a wordless moment of mutual respect and friendship, showing that the film isn’t about romance but about finding connection across generations.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
No, The Intern does not feature any post-credits scenes. Once the film ends, that’s it—no hidden jokes or teasers.
Type of Movie
The Intern is a dramedy (drama-comedy) with strong themes of mentorship, generational wisdom, feminism, work-life balance, and aging with dignity.
Cast
- Robert De Niro as Ben Whittaker
- Anne Hathaway as Jules Ostin
- Rene Russo as Fiona, the company masseuse and Ben’s love interest
- Anders Holm as Matt Ostin
- Andrew Rannells as Cameron
- Adam Devine as Jason
- Nat Wolff as Justin
- Linda Lavin as Patty
Film Music and Composer
The score was composed by Theodore Shapiro, known for his work on comedies like The Devil Wears Prada and Tropic Thunder. The soundtrack blends light piano and jazz elements with contemporary tracks, enhancing both the warmth and humor of the film.
Filming Locations
- New York City: Much of the film was shot in Brooklyn and Manhattan, showcasing modern office culture and urban life.
- Brooklyn’s Carroll Gardens: Used for the Ostin family’s brownstone, adding authenticity to the home-life scenes.
The choice of NYC as a backdrop is fitting, symbolizing both tradition (Ben) and modern hustle (Jules).
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Awards and Nominations
While the film didn’t secure major awards, it received recognition for its performances—especially Robert De Niro’s understated yet impactful role. It also earned praise from audiences for its uplifting, intergenerational message.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Nancy Meyers wrote the role of Jules specifically with Anne Hathaway in mind.
- De Niro reportedly enjoyed the part because it reminded him of his own fatherly instincts.
- The “senior intern” program depicted in the movie was inspired by real-world initiatives aimed at helping older workers re-enter the job market.
- Many office scenes were shot in an actual repurposed warehouse to maintain an authentic start-up aesthetic.
Inspirations and References
The movie is not adapted from a book but is inspired by Meyers’ fascination with generational gaps in the workplace. It also echoes her earlier films (Something’s Gotta Give, It’s Complicated), which explore aging, relationships, and second chances in life.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no reported alternate endings. However, some smaller deleted scenes feature more light-hearted office banter and additional moments between Ben and Fiona. These were cut to keep pacing tight.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- Ben fixing a chaotic desk setup for Jules overnight.
- The “handkerchief moment,” when Ben explains that it’s for women’s tears, not just sneezes.
- Ben and the interns breaking into Jules’ mom’s house to delete a mistaken email.
- Jules breaking down in Ben’s car, finally letting her guard down.
Iconic Quotes
- Ben: “You’re never wrong to do the right thing.”
- Jules: “I hate to be the feminist stereotype, but… can I be both a CEO and a mom?”
- Ben: “Musicians don’t retire. They stop when there’s no more music in them. Well, I still have music in me.”
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Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- Jules’ company is a subtle nod to real-life e-commerce startups like Net-a-Porter and ModCloth.
- The wardrobe choices reflect character arcs: Ben’s suits symbolize timeless professionalism, while Jules’ clothing evolves from casual to power-dressed.
- The “tai chi in the park” finale mirrors an earlier scene, symbolizing calm gained after chaos.
Trivia
- Robert De Niro shadowed real startup employees in New York to prepare for the role.
- Nancy Meyers originally considered a male CEO lead before shifting to Jules, adding depth to the gender conversation.
- The office extras were largely actual young startup workers.
Why Watch?
Watch The Intern if you’re in the mood for a warm, thoughtful film that’s both funny and quietly emotional. It’s not about explosions or spectacle, but about people—how generations can learn from each other, how relationships evolve, and how purpose doesn’t end with retirement.
Director’s Other Movies
- The Parent Trap (1998)
- Something’s Gotta Give (2003)
- The Holiday (2006)
- It’s Complicated (2009)
Recommended Films for Fans
- The Devil Wears Prada (2006)
- Julie & Julia (2009)
- Up in the Air (2009)
- Morning Glory (2010)
- Larry Crowne (2011)