'Prime' update of 'The Graduate'

Writer/director Ben Younger, whose only previous credit includes the greed-inspired "Boiler Room," returns with sophomore effort "Prime," which, disregarding the brilliance of "The Graduate," could be considered its modern day rendition. \nWhereas "The Graduate" was considered quite risky in 1967 (my grandmother forbid my then-sixteen-year-old mom from ever seeing it), "Prime" seems tame by today's standards. Both films concern younger males and their affairs with older women, but Mrs. Robinson was a married woman, which made the classic film much more taboo. Raphael Gardet, age 37, (Thurman) is recently divorced before she begins an affair with 23-year-old Dave (Greenberg).\nYounger adds a humorous twist to the recycled plot. Rafi's therapist Lisa (Streep, in a hilariously exceptional performance) soon realizes Rafi's young new boyfriend is her own son. Initially, Lisa is obligated to keep this secret due to her ethical beliefs as well as her desire to treat Rafi, and so she is forced to sit through the details of her own son's sex life. Lisa uneasily encourages her patient to enjoy herself while simultaneously persuading her son against the relationship, partly because of the age gap and partly due to the fact that Rafi's not Jewish. \nMeanwhile Rafi and Dave's relationship goes through ups and downs. They are falling in love, but their age gap makes certain relationship aspects difficult, especially when Dave moves in with Rafi. Typical generational differences ensue and play out well. For example, Dave is messy, lazy and plays video games too much, while Rafi just wants what she can't have: a baby. \nOne of the film's strong points is its dialogue. Awkward circumstances and everyday encounters are brought to life through well written lines. However, the acting is what propels the story forward. Streep is sensational as the wise, caring therapist and concerned, overprotective mother. Thurman does a great job of playing a 37-year-old trying to act 14 years younger. She has seasoned acumen but still remembers what it's like to be juvenile. Relative newcomer Greenberg does well alongside the two very accomplished actresses. \n"Prime" centers on a silly plot, but it plays out rather well, and director Younger is good at making fun of the uncomfortable situations he creates. The bittersweet ending, though almost expected, will leave you wondering what boundaries, societal or otherwise, love is not able to cross.