When "About the Fit" Cyber Company decides to hire senior interns as a community outreach program, Ben finds himself back in the workforce, an old guy in a world of new technology. When he is assigned to the control freak boss, Jules Ostin, he finds himself observing her as she slowly watches her world fall apart.
In a classic cliché of the old guy teaching the youngsters old school values and manners while the 20-somethings teach the senior citizen about technology and social media, The Intern relies on typical jokes, which luckily work in this case. Ben takes on the role of loveable grandpa and wise old sage all at the same time.
DeNiro is terrific as the senior citizen widower looking to find purpose in his old age, while Anne Hathaway (Les Miserables) holds her own against the senior actor playing Ostin. She handles every scene with him like the professional she is and certainly doesn't get swallowed up alive by his acting ability, which is a testament to her own talent. The supporting cast, including Rene Russo (Thor: The Dark World) and Adam Devine (Pitch Perfect), help to enhance the leads and manage to make the film even more enjoyable.
The laughs abound in this film and DeNiro is surprisingly good as a comedic actor; a side we don't often see from him. The most memorable moment is when Ben and the younger staff members break into Jules' parents home to erase an email she accidentally sent to her mom.
The Intern certainly isn't going to win any major awards, but it is a light hearted, fun look at retirement and the generation gap. It is a feel good film that is enjoyable for audiences from teenagers to retirees. I walked away with a smile on my face and a warm, fuzzy feeling in my heart. If you're looking for an enjoyable night at the movies, this film is as good as anything on which to spend your money. Grade: B+
