Movies about school shootings are not new, with films like Bowling For Columbine and The Fallout tackling the heavy subject matter. However, these stories remain tragically relevant in today’s society. The Graduates fit into this genre, sharing similarities with The Fallout by focusing on the survivors after a tragic event.
The film emphasizes friendship and showcases a standout performance by its lead, Mina Sundwall. Directed by Hannah Peterson, The Graduates stands out due to its thoughtful direction, making it feel both authentic and unique.
The Premise of The Graduates
The story of The Graduates revolves around a young woman named Genevieve, played by Mina Sundwall, during her senior year of high school. Her life includes typical teenage experiences, such as worrying about college applications, enjoying milkshakes, and swimming with friends.
These relatable moments ground the film in reality. However, it quickly becomes evident that Genevieve faces significant challenges. Her boyfriend, Tyler, was a victim of a school shooting the previous year, and she was present in the building during the tragedy.
The trauma of losing her boyfriend deeply affects Genevieve. She grapples with her feelings of grief, confusion, and the desire to remember Tyler while trying to move forward with her life. The film effectively portrays her emotional journey as she faces the aftermath of the shooting. Genevieve’s struggle is a powerful reminder of how young people cope with loss and how such experiences shape their identities and relationships.
Ben: The Other Survivor
Another key character in the story is Ben, Tyler’s best friend, portrayed by Alex Hibbert. Ben skipped school on the day of the shooting, which leaves him with a heavy burden of survivor’s guilt. He believes he should have been there for Tyler, and this feeling weighs heavily on him.
To cope, Ben transfers to a different school and eventually decides to drop out to pursue his GED. His journey highlights the far-reaching impact of such tragedies on friends and family, as well as the difficulties faced by those left behind.
As the one-year anniversary of Tyler’s death approaches, Genevieve and Ben reconnect. Their renewed friendship serves as a crucial element of the narrative, allowing both characters to confront their feelings and support each other in their healing processes. This relationship emphasizes the importance of human connection and understanding in overcoming trauma.
A Standout Performance: Mina Sundwall as Genevieve
Mina Sundwall delivers a powerful performance as Genevieve, bringing depth and nuance to the character. The role could easily slip into cliché, portraying Genevieve as either an overly emotional girlfriend or a stoic figure. However, Sundwall strikes a delicate balance, showcasing Genevieve’s vulnerability and strength.
Her performance allows the audience to empathize with Genevieve’s struggles, making her journey feel genuine and relatable.
When Genevieve experiences moments of breakdown or anger, Sundwall’s portrayal becomes even more impactful. These raw moments resonate deeply, emphasizing the weight of Genevieve’s grief and allowing viewers to feel her pain. If there is any justice in the film industry, this role will mark a significant point in Sundwall’s career, opening doors for more prominent opportunities.
Alex Hibbert’s portrayal of Ben is equally commendable, adding emotional depth to the story. Ben’s survivor’s guilt and his efforts to live life after tragedy resonate with the audience. The chemistry between Sundwall and Hibbert creates a strong foundation for the film, allowing their authentic friendship to shine through.
As their bond evolves into something deeper, the romance feels genuine and beautifully captured, further enhancing the emotional weight of the story.
Supporting Characters: Adding Dimension to the Narrative
The film also features Yasmeen Fletcher and Ewan Manley, who play members of Genevieve and Ben’s friend group. They bring a refreshing dynamic to the story, providing moments of levity amidst the heavy themes. Their portrayal of Generation Z feels relatable and authentic, avoiding common stereotypes and instead showcasing the complexities of young adulthood.
While the adult characters take a backseat in the story, they play vital roles in shaping the narrative. John Cho shines as the school’s basketball coach and Tyler’s father, showcasing his own journey through grief. The film hints at the father’s struggles but could benefit from more clarity in his character arc.
Similarly, Kelly O’Sullivan plays a supportive school counselor, defying the typical portrayal of overly cheerful or harsh authority figures. Her nurturing presence is vital for the students, though further development of her backstory would enhance her role.
One of the film’s most touching aspects is the relationship between Genevieve and her mother, portrayed by Maria Dizzia. Their bond is beautifully depicted, highlighting the importance of family support during challenging times.
The mother’s fierce love and compassion shine through, particularly in moments where Genevieve allows herself to lean on her. These tender interactions provide comfort and catharsis amidst the turmoil, reinforcing the idea that healing often comes from those we love.
The Director’s Vision: Hannah Peterson’s Approach
Director Hannah Peterson brings a thoughtful vision to The Graduates, mentoring under filmmakers like Sean Baker and Chloé Zhao. Their influence is evident in her work, particularly in the natural, lived-in quality of the cinematography and performances.
Peterson’s decision to avoid flashbacks to the shooting keeps the film from feeling exploitative or overly dramatic. Instead, she allows the characters’ experiences and emotions to carry the narrative.
Peterson’s confidence in her characters leads to a focus on meaningful details that enhance the story. Elements such as metal detectors at the school and memorials for the victims serve as powerful reminders of the tragedy without overwhelming the audience. The film effectively communicates the pain of the characters’ experiences through subtle references and details.
The film also highlights Tyler’s presence, despite him not appearing in lengthy flashbacks. Genevieve’s recollections, including a light-hearted moment from when Tyler came over for dinner, give life to his character.
This storytelling approach allows the audience to connect with Tyler, making his absence felt throughout the film. The ability to infuse Tyler with personality and depth without showing him on screen is a testament to Peterson’s skill as a director.
Addressing Unexplored Themes: Room for Growth
While The Graduates excel in many areas, certain elements feel underdeveloped or rushed. The arcs for Tyler’s father and the school counselor, as well as Genevieve’s interest in photography and the characters’ faith lives, could benefit from further schemes.
The film’s primary focus on the present and the relationships among the main characters leads to delightful moments but sometimes sacrifices depth in secondary storylines.
There are no clear villains or antagonists in the film, which adds to its authenticity. Even strict teachers show understanding and compassion, reinforcing the notion that everyone is facing their own grief. The absence of a traditional antagonist allows the film to emphasize the shared experience of loss within the community.
Conclusion: A Message of Hope Amidst Grief
The Graduates concludes on a hopeful note, reminding viewers that learning to live with grief is a continuous process. This message resonates with anyone who has experienced loss, making it a universal theme. The film is a compelling drama that showcases incredible performances and confident direction.
Still from The Graduates (Credit: The Future of Film is Female)
Though it may be a quieter film, The Graduates carries a strong message and perspective. The combination of personal journeys, deep friendships, and a supportive community creates a rich narrative that lingers in the minds of viewers. As the film unfolds, it invites the audience to reflect on their own experiences with loss and the power of connection.
T he Graduates is not just a story about tragedy but also about resilience and hope. As viewers, we are left eager to see what director Hannah Peterson and lead actress Mina Sundwall will create in the future. Their work in The Graduates marks a promising start to what could be long and impactful careers.
The Graduates is currently in theaters, offering a thought-provoking experience that captures the complexities of grief and the strength found in friendship. It serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, even in the face of unimaginable loss.
The legendary Saturday Night Live has officially started its 50th season. Created by Lorne Michaels, this late-night sketch comedy show has been on NBC since 1975. The first episode featured famous stand-up comic George Carlin and was shown in Jason Reitman’s new movie, Saturday Night.
The series has won an impressive 84 Emmy Awards, more than any other TV show, and many people consider it one of the best TV shows ever. Each episode features a talented cast of comic performers, a host who often promotes a new project, a musical guest, and many guest appearances.
Saturday Night Live has helped launch the careers of many famous actors and comedians. Stars such as John Belushi, Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Chevy Chase got their starts on the show. Eddie Murphy became a major film star after his time on SNL.
The show also features women who made a big impact, like Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Tina Fey, and Maya Rudolph. Many cast members, including Will Ferrell, Kristen Wiig, and Pete Davidson, have become household names thanks to their time on the show.
As SNL continues into its 50th season, it has had a significant impact on American pop culture. The show’s sketches have become famous, and some have even been turned into popular movies.
Films like Wayne’s World, The Blues Brothers, Coneheads, MacGruber, and Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain started as sketches on SNL. This connection between the show and movies shows how influential SNL is in the entertainment industry.
The Iconic Format of SNL
The format of Saturday Night Live is unique. Each episode is live, which adds excitement and spontaneity. The show begins with a cold open, which often features political satire. This part of the show sets the tone for the night. The cold open is usually followed by the opening credits and the host’s monologue. The host is typically a celebrity promoting a movie, album, or TV show.
After the monologue, the show features a series of comedy sketches. These sketches can vary from absurd humor to clever political commentary. Each episode also includes a musical guest, who performs one or two songs. The musical acts range from up-and-coming artists to well-known bands.
The Weekend Update segment is another highlight of SNL. This segment is a fake news show that features anchors who deliver jokes about current events. This segment is a favorite among fans because it provides a humorous take on serious topics. The Weekend Update often includes special guests, which adds to the fun.
New Episodes and Hosts
With the start of its 50th season, Saturday Night Live continues to air new episodes every Saturday night. The show remains live from New York, a tradition that has been in place since its first episode. Each episode airs at 11:30 PM EST on NBC, and fans can also stream the episodes on Peacock.
As the show approaches the 2024 Presidential Election, viewers can expect plenty of political humor and commentary in the upcoming episodes.
Still from Saturday Night Live (Credit: NBC)
For this week, stand-up comedian John Mulaney is set to host SNL. Mulaney has been a familiar face on the show, having served as a writer from Season 34 to Season 38. This episode marks his sixth time hosting, after previous appearances in Seasons 43, 44, 45, 46, and 47.
Mulaney is well-known for his stand-up performances. He has created five stand-up specials, including The Top Part, New in Town, The Comeback Kid, Kid Gorgeous at Radio City Hall, and Baby J. His performances are popular for their sharp humor and storytelling ability. Mulaney has also hosted a Netflix special titled John Mulaney & the Sack Lunch Bunch, which was a kids’ musical comedy special that aired in 2019.
In addition to his stand-up work, Mulaney has had success as a voice actor. He has lent his voice to several animated films and series, including Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Big Mouth, Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, and Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers.
Recently, he hosted the live Netflix talk show John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s in LA. In exciting news for fans, he will be hosting another live talk show for Netflix, which will premiere in early 2025.
The lineup of hosts for Season 50 has included other famous names. Jean Smart, a star from the show Hacks, was one of the first hosts of the season. Comedian Nate Bargatze and pop star Ariana Grande, known for her role in Wicked, have also taken on hosting duties.
Michael Keaton, famous for his role in Beetlejuice, has hosted as well. These diverse hosts bring their unique styles and humor to each episode, keeping the show fresh and entertaining.
The Musical Guests of SNL
Each episode of Saturday Night Live also features a musical guest. These artists perform live in front of the studio audience, creating a lively atmosphere. The musical lineup this season has included both well-known stars and emerging artists.
For tonight’s episode, rising pop star Chappell Roan will make her highly anticipated debut on SNL. Roan has been creating music since 2014 but has gained significant attention in the past year.
She first gained recognition as a supporting act on Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts World Tour. Roan has released one studio album titled The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess, featuring hit songs like “Hot to Go!”, “Red Wine Supernova,” and “Pink Pony Club”. Her latest single, “Good Luck, Babe!”, has become one of the most popular songs of 2024.
Chappell Roan has hinted at a second studio album coming soon, but details about its release remain under wraps. Her presence on SNL marks an important milestone in her career as she shares her music with a larger audience.
Other musical guests this season have included popular acts like Jelly Roll, Coldplay, Stevie Nicks, and Billie Eilish. Each artist brings their unique style to the show, creating memorable performances that fans look forward to each week.
The Cast of SNL
The cast of Saturday Night Live has changed a lot over the years, reflecting the evolution of comedy and entertainment. For Season 50, the show features a talented group of performers known as “repertory players.”
This group includes Mikey Day, Andrew Dismukes, Chloe Fineman, Heidi Gardner, Marcello Hernandez, James Austin Johnson, Michael Longfellow, Ego Nwodim, Sarah Sherman, Kenan Thompson, Devon Walker, Bowen Yang, and Weekend Update anchors Michael Che and Colin Jost.
The cast also includes featured players, who are newcomers to the show. This season, Ashley Padilla, Emil Wakim, and Jane Wickline are featured players. The comedy trio known as Please Don’t Destroy, made up of staff writers Martin Herlihy, Ben Marshall, and John Higgins, often appears in digital videos throughout the show.
These videos often feature the host interacting with the three young comedians, adding an extra layer of humor to the episodes.
Still from Saturday Night Live (Credit: NBC)
Maya Rudolph is also set to make appearances on SNL this season, playing Vice President Kamala Harris. Andy Samberg will join her as Doug Emhoff and comedian Jim Gaffigan will portray Tim Walz. These appearances will take place in episodes leading up to the 2024 Presidential Election, adding a political touch to the season.
The Impact of SNL on Pop Culture
Saturday Night Live has had a profound effect on pop culture in America. Since its debut, the show has influenced comedy, music, and even politics. Many comedians have cited SNL as an inspiration for their careers. The show has also changed the way political humor is presented on television.
The show’s ability to adapt to changing times has kept it relevant. It addresses current events and social issues through sketches and commentary. As a result, SNL continues to resonate with audiences. Its ability to mix humor with serious topics allows it to engage viewers on multiple levels.
One of the key aspects of SNL is its boldness in addressing political issues. The cold opens often feature current political figures, delivering biting satire that entertains while provoking thought. This approach has made the show a platform for social commentary. As the 2024 Presidential Election approaches, SNL will undoubtedly continue to highlight the political view with humor and insight.
The show has also been a launching pad for social movements. Various sketches have tackled issues such as race, gender, and equality, sparking conversations across the country. SNL not only entertains but also challenges societal norms and prompts viewers to think critically about important topics.
Celebrating 50 Years of Comedy
As Saturday Night Live celebrates its 50th season, the show reflects on its incredible history. Since the first episode in 1975, SNL has evolved, showcasing diverse voices and perspectives. The milestone season provides an opportunity for fans to look back at iconic sketches, memorable hosts, and unforgettable musical performances.
Over the years, many sketches have become classics. Fans remember sketches like “More Cowbell” featuring Will Ferrell and “Celebrity Jeopardy” with Darrell Hammond as Sean Connery. These sketches remain popular and are often referenced in pop culture. The show’s ability to create memorable moments has solidified its place in television history.
Additionally, SNL has produced many famous characters that fans adore. From the hilarious Wayne and Garth of Wayne’s World to the quirky church lady played by Dana Carvey, these characters have become beloved figures in comedy. The show’s ability to create relatable and funny characters contributes to its lasting appeal.
As the 50th season unfolds, fans can expect a mix of nostalgia and fresh content. The show’s creators promise to honor the past while continuing to innovate. This balance will ensure that SNL remains a relevant and beloved part of television.
What Lies Ahead for SNL
Looking ahead, Saturday Night Live will continue to bring in exciting hosts and musical guests. The November 9 episode will see stand-up comedian Bill Burr return as host for the second time. Mk.gee will make his debut as the musical guest, adding to the excitement of the season.
On November 16, pop star Charli XCX will host and perform as the musical guest. Charli is known for her unique sound and style, and her dual role as host and performer will surely create a lively episode.
With many more episodes planned for Season 50, SNL is set to continue entertaining audiences with its mix of humor, music, and live performances. The show’s ability to adapt to changing times ensures its relevance in today’s media show.
Still from Saturday Night Live (Credit: NBC)
As the 50th season continues, fans can look forward to more political humor, hilarious sketches, and unforgettable musical performances. The legacy of Saturday Night Live continues to grow, making it a cherished part of American television.
Conclusion
Saturday Night Live remains a cultural touchstone in comedy and entertainment. As it celebrates its 50th season, the show looks back at its impressive history while continuing to entertain audiences. With a talented cast, exciting hosts, and memorable musical guests, SNL is poised to keep its legacy alive for years to come.
From its bold political satire to its iconic sketches, SNL continues shaping the comedy shows. Fans eagerly await each new episode, ready to laugh and enjoy the unique blend of humor and music that has made Saturday Night Live a beloved institution in television history.
