The Intern

While the plot is pretty obvious, I didn’t want to give too much away. Just why he’s her intern and how it  happens I’ll have to leave to your viewing.

I didn’t think of it at the time, but the absence of cynicism is one of the great virtues of the film. The “can do” optimism of a brash internet startup infuses the film. It is what makes Di Niro so attractive in my view. He’s arguably nearing the end of his life but you wouldn’t know it from his actions or spirit.

As to Rearden, who knows.  Perhaps when he was younger.  But this film is nowhere near Atlas in its scope.  It isn’t even as explicitly “pro-business” as “Other People’s Money”. Rather it looks at abilities from the perspective of  age and projects a life affirming outlook. It also looks at the importance knowing your personal  worth and holding true to your values.

A small vignette as a teaser: Di Niro is  being interviewed by individuals 40-50 years his junior. We begin to understand he has extensive experience in marketing and production and has probably conducted hundreds of such interviews as an employer. And yet with just a touch of wry humor at the corners of his mouth and a humorous twinkle  in his eyes he treats the questions seriously and answers them honestly.

Then this exchange occurs (from memory…)

Twenty something {with a serious, man-of-the world  look}: “this is probably  our most important question so give it serious thought… ‘where do you want to be in 10 years?'”

Di Nero: “Alive”

Twenty something {clearly flustered and speaking very rapidly}: “Oh, gosh, I didn’t realize your age is 70. Oh, um, well, um, I  guess we should just put that question aside shall we…”

Di Nero: “yes, let’s”.