Every generation says it won't happen to them. "I'm not going to be like my parents. I'm not going to sell out my dreams." Nothing captures this idea better than The Graduate (Nichols, 1967.) In this twisted film of a college student, Benjamin Braddock (Dustin Hoffman,) and his search for himself, the director Mike Nichols uses a multitude of metaphors to intensify feelings and emotions. Nichols uses a plethora of filming techniques to help achieve his desired effect. Seductive flashes, color distortion, and a scuba suit are just a few of the many metaphors that Nichols uses in The Graduate. This coming of age film is a timeless classic, due in part to the cinematographic genius demonstrated by Nichols.

A perfect example of Nichols' use of metaphors to express Ben's feelings occurs during the infamous scene in which the older Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft) seduces him. When Ben proceeds to Elaine Robinson's (Katharine Ross) bedroom to return Mrs. Robinson her purse, a naked Mrs. Robinson follows in behind him and quickly locks the door. As she offers her body to Ben, a series of flashes of Mrs. Robinson's breasts and waistline appear. First her bre

After watching The Graduate it is obvious that Nichols has created a masterpiece, which will endure for decades. As Ben makes his rite of passage to manhood and finds his true self, his feelings and emotions are captured exquisitely by Nichols. By using metaphors such as nude flashes, a scuba suit, and color distortion, Nichols brings us closer to Ben's character and helps to provide an in-depth look at a seemingly typical college graduate. Although Ben choose a road less traveled in his search for himself, his story will remain forever in the minds of all who watch The Graduate. Ben is not alone in his coming of age in this film, as Nichols grows also, leaving a permanent impact on movie history through his meticulous direct

Another scene in which Nichols uses metaphors to help the viewer identify with the main character occurs when Ben is lazily floating on his raft in the pool. There is an obvious transformation in Ben as he is now dawning shades, and drinking beer. The water appears to sparkle crystal clear, exemplifying his certainty and confidence in the decision that he has made to sleep with Mrs. Robinson. Ben exudes a self-assurance that was nonexistent earlier in the film. However, moments later Ben realizes that although sex, beer, and relaxation are attractive, but are not as fulfilling as he had suspected. The montage of images in which depictions of Ben's two summer pursuits, lounging around, and Mrs. Robinson are interspliced exhibits this idea. As Ben remains in bed at the Taft hotel, Mrs. Robinson repeatedly passes back and forth. This medley of images can be directly linked to Ben's uncertainty in the decisions he has made, and the life t

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