“The Intern” is a heartwarming narrative where a retired widower, Ben Whittaker, unexpectedly finds purpose and connection by becoming a senior intern at an online fashion retail startup, About The Fit, and ultimately helps its driven but overwhelmed CEO, Jules Ostin, navigate the complexities of work-life balance and personal relationships. Through Ben’s wisdom and experience, Jules learns valuable lessons about leadership, trust, and the importance of slowing down, while he, in turn, rediscovers passion and friendship.
Ben’s Unexpected Journey: An Intern’s Tale
The film chronicles Ben Whittaker’s transition from a comfortable retirement to a vibrant new chapter as an intern. After his wife’s passing, Ben struggles to find fulfillment in his post-career life. He fills his days with activities like yoga and golf, but a persistent sense of emptiness lingers. When he sees an advertisement for a senior intern program at About The Fit, a rapidly growing online fashion company founded and run by Jules Ostin, he decides to apply, seeking a renewed sense of purpose.
Ben’s initial encounters at About The Fit are awkward but endearing. He’s clearly out of his element amidst the young, tech-savvy employees. However, his old-school charm, genuine interest in others, and remarkable work ethic quickly win them over. Assigned to Jules as her intern, Ben initially struggles to gain her attention, as she is perpetually busy and seemingly uninterested in mentorship. However, his persistent efforts to assist her, coupled with his natural empathy, eventually break through her defenses.
Over time, Ben becomes an invaluable asset to both Jules and the company. He offers practical advice, emotional support, and a calming presence amid the chaotic startup environment. He fixes the office espresso machine, organizes Jules’ messy desk, and becomes a confidante to many of his younger colleagues. His influence extends beyond the workplace as he develops meaningful relationships with his peers, including a romance with the company’s in-house masseuse, Fiona.
Jules’ Struggle: Balancing Ambition and Life
Jules Ostin is a brilliant and driven entrepreneur who has poured her heart and soul into building About The Fit from the ground up. Her dedication has come at a cost, leaving her struggling to balance the demands of her company with her responsibilities as a wife and mother. Jules is depicted as fiercely independent and reluctant to delegate, leading to burnout and strained relationships with her husband, Matt, who has sacrificed his career to stay home with their daughter, Paige.
Throughout the film, Jules grapples with the pressure to accept investors who want to install a new CEO, believing she can no longer handle the company’s rapid growth. She is torn between her desire to maintain control of the business she created and her growing awareness that she needs help. Ben becomes a trusted advisor during this challenging period, offering her perspective and encouraging her to trust her instincts.
Jules’ relationship with Matt is also central to her internal conflict. His decision to prioritize her career has created a subtle resentment, and his recent confession of infidelity further complicates their already fragile marriage. Ben’s wisdom and unwavering support help Jules confront these issues head-on, ultimately leading her to make difficult but necessary decisions for the well-being of herself, her family, and her company.
The Climax: Decisions and Resolutions
The climax of “The Intern” revolves around Jules’ decision regarding the potential CEO change and the future of her marriage. After much deliberation and with Ben’s guidance, she recognizes that she can handle the company and chooses to remain at the helm. This decision is empowering for Jules, as it signifies her reclaiming control and reaffirming her capabilities.
The film also sees Jules and Matt begin the process of reconciliation. While the path forward is uncertain, their willingness to confront their issues and work towards rebuilding trust offers a glimmer of hope for their future. Ben’s role in this process is significant, as he provides Jules with the emotional support and clarity she needs to make informed decisions.
The ending of the film is uplifting and optimistic. Jules, having rediscovered her confidence and renewed her commitment to her family, is seen practicing Tai Chi with Ben in the park. The final scene encapsulates the film’s central themes of friendship, mentorship, and the enduring power of human connection. Ben, having found purpose and companionship, has seamlessly integrated into Jules’ life and continues to provide invaluable support.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about “The Intern”
H3: What is the main theme of “The Intern”?
The main theme of “The Intern” is the importance of mentorship and intergenerational connection. It explores how people of different ages and backgrounds can learn from each other and enrich each other’s lives. Other prominent themes include work-life balance, the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, and the search for purpose and fulfillment in life.
H3: How old is Ben Whittaker in the movie?
Ben Whittaker is 70 years old when he begins his internship at About The Fit. This age is significant, as it highlights the film’s focus on challenging societal expectations about aging and retirement.
H3: Why did Jules’ husband, Matt, cheat on her?
Matt’s infidelity stems from feelings of inadequacy and resentment due to sacrificing his career to support Jules’ ambitions. He feels disconnected from Jules’ world and believes he is not enough for her, leading him to seek validation elsewhere.
H3: What kind of company is About The Fit?
About The Fit is an e-commerce company specializing in online fashion retail. The company sells clothing, shoes, and accessories to customers through its website and mobile app. Its rapid growth and modern workplace culture are key aspects of the film’s setting.
H3: Does Jules ultimately accept the investors’ offer to bring in a new CEO?
No, Jules ultimately decides not to accept the investors’ offer to bring in a new CEO. She realizes that she is capable of leading the company and that she doesn’t want to relinquish control of the business she built.
H3: What is Ben’s background before becoming an intern?
Before becoming an intern, Ben worked for a printing company for 40 years. He held various positions throughout his career, demonstrating his dedication and work ethic. His experience in the business world provides him with valuable insights and perspectives that he shares with Jules and his colleagues.
H3: How does Ben help Jules with her emails?
Ben helps Jules by organizing her inbox and filtering out unimportant emails. This allows Jules to focus on the most pressing matters and reduces her stress level. He also provides her with a more objective perspective on the emails she receives.
H3: What is the significance of the Tai Chi scenes in the movie?
The Tai Chi scenes symbolize balance and harmony, both within oneself and within the environment. They represent Jules and Ben’s efforts to find equilibrium in their lives and to cultivate a sense of peace and well-being.
H3: What advice does Ben give Jules about her relationship with Matt?
Ben advises Jules to communicate openly and honestly with Matt about her feelings and concerns. He encourages her to listen to his perspective and to work together to rebuild their trust. He stresses the importance of valuing each other’s contributions to the relationship.
H3: What happens with Ben’s relationship with Fiona, the masseuse?
Ben develops a romantic relationship with Fiona, the in-house masseuse at About The Fit. Their relationship provides Ben with companionship and a sense of connection, demonstrating that love and romance can be found at any age. While they have their bumps, they are last seen happily together.
H3: What does Ben learn from the younger employees at About The Fit?
Ben learns about modern technology, social media, and the challenges faced by young professionals. He gains a better understanding of the millennial generation’s work ethic and values, which helps him bridge the generational gap and connect with his younger colleagues.
H3: What is the overall message of “The Intern”?
The overall message of “The Intern” is that age is just a number and that experience and wisdom are valuable assets. The film celebrates the power of human connection and the importance of finding purpose and fulfillment at any stage of life. It encourages viewers to embrace change, challenge stereotypes, and appreciate the contributions of all generations.