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.
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.
The 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.
