4 Dec 2024
BT English08: Two Movies for Holiday Season
It’s been a while, everyone! The Christmas season is just around the corner—have you picked your holiday movies yet? If you’re still undecided, don’t worry! I’ve got two great recommendations for you: The Devil Wears Prada and The Intern, both starring Anne Hathaway. These films are lighthearted, fun, and perfect for the cheerful, cozy vibes of the holidays.
Let’s start with The Devil Wears Prada. In this movie, Anne Hathaway plays Andy, a newbie navigating the world of high fashion. Honestly, I saw so much of myself in her. That mix of overconfidence and the crushing disappointment when things don’t go as planned at work? Totally relatable. Back then, I used to envy her job—working in a glamorous environment, wearing fabulous outfits every day. I mean, who wouldn’t want that? But watching it now, I see things differently. Meryl Streep’s character, the boss, is absolutely terrifying. She’s cold, unpredictable, and impossible to read—basically, the kind of boss that can give you workplace PTSD.
One thing I find really meaningful in this movie is Andy’s initial attitude toward her job. She looks down on the fashion industry because her dream is to be a journalist. That feels very realistic and serves as a great lesson for all of us: whatever you’re doing, take it seriously. Even if it’s not your passion, there’s always something to learn if you put in the effort. On the other hand, if you approach it with a ‘whatever’ attitude, it’s just a waste of time.
Now, let’s talk about The Intern. Robert De Niro’s character, Ben, is such a breath of fresh air. There’s so much we can learn from the way he approaches life and work.
First, his calm and composed attitude is incredible. No matter what’s going on around him, Ben stays cool, patient, and observant. He takes the time to understand situations before reacting. In today’s fast-paced world, that’s a rare and valuable quality. It’s a reminder for us to slow down, stay grounded, and think things through.
Second, his willingness to learn is inspiring. Even as a senior citizen stepping into a completely new environment, he doesn’t let his age hold him back. He adapts, embraces change, and respects the younger generation. It’s such a beautiful reminder that growth doesn’t stop, no matter how old you are.
Ben’s relationships with his colleagues are another highlight. He’s supportive, thoughtful, and knows how to offer advice without being pushy. He listens, understands people’s struggles, and offers help in the most respectful and kind way. That’s emotional intelligence at its best, and it’s a skill we could all use more of.
Lastly, Ben’s attention to detail is admirable. Whether it’s his polished and professional appearance or the way he carefully handles even the smallest tasks, he takes pride in everything he does. It’s a reminder that even the little things can make a big difference.
And then there’s Jules Ostin, Anne Hathaway’s character in The Intern. Her journey with Ben is one of the most touching parts of the film. At first, she’s skeptical about him. After all, she’s a young, driven CEO juggling the chaos of a growing startup, and suddenly she’s paired with a senior intern. You can almost hear her thinking, What’s this guy going to bring to the table?
But as the story unfolds, you see her perspective shift. Ben doesn’t force his wisdom on her; he quietly supports her, offering advice when she needs it and letting her figure things out on her own. Jules starts to see the value in his calm, steady presence, and it’s exactly what she needs in her hectic life.
One of my favorite aspects of their relationship is how Ben becomes her anchor. He’s not just a colleague—he’s someone she can trust and lean on. He helps her realize that it’s okay to ask for help and that being a leader doesn’t mean carrying the world on your shoulders alone.
By the end of the film, you see a new Jules. She’s still ambitious and strong, but she’s also more grounded and self-aware. Her growth is a testament to the fact that the people you least expect can have the biggest impact on your life.
So, if you’re looking for something heartwarming this holiday season, give these movies a watch. They’re more than just entertaining—they’re full of moments that will make you laugh, reflect, and maybe even inspire you to look at life a little differently.
