Director Nancy Meyers is no intern to the movie making industry. Her prior movies (It’s Complicated, Something’s Gotta Give) share a subtle feminist theme and a hard look at the stereotypical alpha dog type man, mixed with feel-good soundtracks, witty humor, and slightly predictable inspirational moments. The Intern, however, rejuvenates the classic Nancy Meyers upbeat movie by adding a twist that altogether makes a more satisfying and wholly entertaining story.

Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway give beautiful performances as widowed intern, Ben Whittaker, and over-worked mother and CEO, Jules Ostin, respectively. Jules runs an online fashion company and finds herself battling between professionalism and her personal life. Ben is a retired 70 year-old who recently, with the loss of his wife, is at odds with what to do with his life. The movie starts off depicting a 21st century start-up technology company with all its nonchalance, youth, and energy. Jules Ostin is often unable to keep up with her company and therefore is unable to maintain stability in her family life. When Ben becomes her intern, she is under pressure and unopened to her youthful company being infiltrated by a man who may not understand it. Ben, however, befriends his peers with his old-school charm meanwhile helping Jules keep track of her life. He lends advice, wisdom, and even learns a thing or two himself. The two form an uncanny partnership that often has us laughing, crying, and gently smiling.

De Niro realistically depicts the struggle of growing old in a world full of technology. He proves the value of experience over machinery whilst managing to shed light on the idiosyncrasies of aging. He makes us laugh and silently appreciate what life has to offer. His character gives some of the older generation comfort and gives the younger generations something to think about. Meanwhile, Hathaway’s portrayal of a conflicted businesswoman is done with such grace, that it avoided imminent predictability. Her role brings to light the feminine battle between being good wives and mothers and having outstanding careers. Meyers answers an ongoing question: why can women not be both? As Anne Hathaway faces obstacles in the film, it ends with her being able to perform both roles adequately. With the help of The Intern, the questions regarding both aging and being career women are answered with hilarity, absurdity, and inspiration.

The Intern may not be a hard-hitting drama or riveting action film but it is definitely worth a watch even if only to have a few laughs and make you smile.