The Intern (2015)
Synopsis: “The Intern” is a comedy-drama film directed by Nancy Meyers. The story revolves around Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower, who becomes an intern at an online fashion retailer founded by Jules Ostin. The film explores themes of generational differences, workplace dynamics, and the value of experience in a modern business setting.
Study Guide
1. Generational Differences:
- Discuss the generational gap between Ben Whittaker and the younger employees at the company.
- Explore how different generations approach work, technology, and communication.
- Encourage students to reflect on the stereotypes associated with different age groups and how the movie challenges or reinforces them.
2. Leadership and Management:
- Analyze Jules Ostin’s leadership style and her challenges as a young CEO.
- Examine the mentorship relationship between Ben and Jules and how it impacts the workplace.
- Discuss the qualities of effective leaders and managers portrayed in the film.
3. Work-Life Balance:
- Explore the concept of work-life balance as depicted in the movie.
- Discuss the challenges faced by Jules in managing her professional and personal life.
- Encourage students to reflect on their own views on work-life balance and how it may differ across generations.
4. Entrepreneurship and Startups:
- Examine the challenges and successes of the startup environment portrayed in the film.
- Discuss the importance of innovation, risk-taking, and adaptability in the business world.
- Explore how the company in the movie addresses competition and market trends.
5. Gender Dynamics:
- Examine the portrayal of gender dynamics in the workplace, particularly in leadership roles.
- Discuss the challenges faced by Jules as a female CEO and how the film addresses gender stereotypes.
- Explore the importance of diversity and inclusion in a business setting.
Activities
- Role-playing scenarios to explore effective communication between different generations.
- Gender Equality Exercise.
- Lost-at-Sea Team Building activity.
