By Charlie Kendellen
Graduating university can be a daunting, stressful and unbearably uncertain time in your life. From navigating job applications, interviews, graduate programs, and postgraduate degrees, there is no shortage of stress as you muddle your way through adulthood and your future career. If you’re seeking solace and comfort, look no further, as this list is an assortment of post-grad cinema that captures the essence of uncertainty and an unfiltered look at growing up.
The Graduate (1967)
No film in the history of cinema has had quite the cultural influence as Mike Nichols’ cult classic The Graduate. Starring Dustin Hoffman and a stellar Anne Bancroft, with a swoon-worthy supporting role from Katharine Ross, the film follows a recent college graduate who navigates uncertainty by entering a love triangle with a young woman and her mother. Nichols’ film captures the uncertainty of post-grad life unlike any other. Its depiction of the post-graduate blues solidifies its spot as a timeless classic and a must-watch for any incoming graduate or recent college graduate.
Lost in Translation (2003)
Sofia Coppola’s inspired follow-up to her directorial debut The Virgin Suicides (1999) is a masterclass in mood and atmoshphere. Starring industry titan Bill Murray, and a teenaged Scarlett Johansson, the film follows two lonely people each visiting the hustle and bustle central of Tokyo — finding comfort in each other’s company. Coppola’s distinct sentimentality that rings throughout her filmography is remarkable here. She effortlessly captures the distinct out-of-place feeling and a sense of longing unlike any filmmaker of her time.
Girlfriends (1978)
Claudia Weill’s 70’s gem Girlfriends was a colossal influence on contemporary independent cinema, specifically the mumblecore style that Greta Gerwig burst onto the scene with. The film follows a photographer who must navigate living alone when her roommate suddenly moves out with a boyfriend. Weill’s film is undeniably charming and seamlessly grasps the feeling of uncertainty that almost everyone faces in their twenties. I believe this film will resonate with college graduates as our protagonist is lovable yet flawed, and we follow her as she muddles her way through living alone, navigating her career, and tackling romantic relationships.
The Worst Person in the World (2021)
Joachim Trier’s The Worst Person in the World made quite the impact at its premiere at Cannes Film Festival in 2021. The film’s honest yet empathetic approach at navigating adulthood captured the hearts of critics and audiences alike. The film follows Julie (Renate Reinsve) as she navigates relationships, her career path, and some ruthless introspection along the way.
After Hours (1985)
While not considered much of a college themed film by any regard, Martin Scorsese’s After Hours is purely vibes-based. The film follows a down-on-his-luck white collar worker Paul (Griffin Dunne) who ventures into a nighttime odyssey in order to hookup with the beautiful yet mysterious Marcy (Rosanna Arquette). This film has virtually nothing to do with college or post-graduate life on the surface, however, the anxiety fuelled escapade that Paul finds himself in is quite a comforting way to deal with the often ridiculous obstacles life throws at us, solidifying its place on this list!