Intern

Intern is an entertaining film that showcases the contrasting world of the high-end fashion industry and the optimistic dreams of a young intern. Released in the year 2000, the film was directed by Michael Lange and starred Dominique Swain, Ben Pullen, and Peggy Lipton in the principal roles, among others.

Intern introduces us to Jocelyn Bennett, played by Dominique Swain, a young, vivacious and ambitious individual who aspires to make it big in the fashion industry. She secures an intern position at Skirt Magazine, a high-end, glamorous fashion publication situated in the stylistic yet gritty heart of New York City. However, her dreams are immediately confronted with the harsh reality of the fashion world - the industry is not as friendly or creative as she had initially anticipated; instead, it is a ruthless, cutthroat environment overseen by power-hungry individuals, including the famous editor-in-chief, Roxanne Rochet (played by Peggy Lipton).

As Jocelyn begins her journey with Skirt Magazine, she learns that she must eliminate her preconceived ideas about what it means to work in the realm of fashion. She recognizes that while the industry is filled with creativity and style, it also hides a darker realm filled with deceit, competitive power struggles, and petty rivalries.

The character of Alex (Ben Pullen) offers an intriguing subplot to Jocelyn's story. Alex is the magazine’s art director and Jocelyn's only ally in this chaotic world. Their camaraderie forms one of the more notable segments of the film. Alex helps Jocelyn adapt to the environment, and a unique friendship develops between them, filled with mutual respect and understanding.

The movie remarkably showcases the evolving dynamics between the different characters and further navigates their individual journeys within the agency. Jocelyn must also manoeuvre her way through her relationships with her fellow interns who are equally eager, and sometimes shockingly ruthless, to rise in the ranks.

The film emphasizes fashion as more than just an aesthetic concept; it delves into its inner workings and shows the tremendous amount of pressure, dedication, and politics involved behind everyone's favorite glossy pages. The film portrays a vivid interplay of the fabulous and the frightening aspects of the fashion industry.

Also commendable is the depiction of the tension within the fashion world, where reputation, trends and photographs could make or break careers overnight. The film throws light on how ideas are born and executed, how models are chosen, and the level of perfectionism required to achieve the stunning visuals you see in your favorite magazines.

Through the lens of Intern, the viewer gets an eye-opening tour of the seemingly glamorous fashion world from the perspective of an intern – catering, coping, adjusting, and continually proving oneself in a realm where everything and everyone is continually judged based on appearances.

In terms of performances, Dominique Swain brilliantly embodies the character of Jocelyn, showcasing a range of emotions and transformations, from an enthusiastic intern to a seasoned fashion insider. Ben Pullen excellently portrays the character of Alex, whose charm and kindness provide a stark contrast to the cutthroat nature of the fashion world. With a certain charisma and authority, Peggy Lipton's portrayal of Roxanne Rochet as the hard-edged and perfection-minded editor-in-chief is convincing as well.

Throughout, the director splendidly captures the New York City vibe, the fashion industry's gilded facades, the endless struggle for power, and the hopeful spirit of a young intern who navigates this world. In essence, Intern is a window into the world of glitz, glamour, and the glossy veneer of the fashion industry, revealing the tough core underneath.

If you're looking for an exciting exploration of the fashion industry that bubbles with drama, intrigue, and the hopeful spirit of a young intern, then "Intern" is the watch for you.