Robert De Niro The Intern Netflix success is making headlines as the comedy-drama climbed to the top of Netflix’s movie chart in the United States, just two days after landing on the streaming platform. Originally released in 2015, The Intern is now capturing a new audience a decade later, fueled by its high-profile stars and unexpected chemistry.
The Intern, which also stars Anne Hathaway as Jules Ostin, the ambitious CEO of a fashion start-up, tells the story of Ben Whittaker, played by Robert De Niro, a retired executive who joins the company as a senior intern. This unconventional pairing sets the stage for a buddy comedy that explores workplace dynamics and mentorship across generations.
The Intern’s Rapid Rise to Streaming Fame
Arriving on Netflix on Sunday, June 22, the film took only 24 hours to become the most-watched feature-length movie on the platform in the United States. Its quick surge reflects the strong appeal of its stars, as well as the growing popularity of rediscovering older films through streaming services. Though The Intern originally grossed nearly $200 million worldwide at the box office, critics offered mixed reviews upon its theatrical debut.
This resurgence illustrates a broader trend of films finding renewed success years after their original releases, thanks to the reach of platforms like Netflix. Having previously streamed on other services such as Hulu with limited exposure, The Intern was able to reach Netflix’s massive American subscriber base, numbering around 90 million viewers. The immediate reaction upon arrival shows that, while it may not be considered one of De Niro’s most celebrated comedies, the film’s charm has made it stand out in his body of work in recent years.
Known for his extensive and acclaimed career, Robert De Niro’s role in this film highlights his versatility and connection with audiences. With support from Anne Hathaway, whose character brings both vulnerability and ambition, their on-screen partnership has proven irresistible to a new wave of movie lovers in 2024.
Why Audiences Continue to Embrace The Intern
Despite critics’ lukewarm initial reception, The Intern has consistently earned higher audience ratings. For example, Rotten Tomatoes scores stand at 73% for viewers and 60% from critics, demonstrating the gap between critical opinion and public enjoyment. Director Nancy Meyers, also known for audience favorites such as What Women Want and The Holiday, has crafted another film that resonates far beyond its theatrical run.
The emotional connection between De Niro and Hathaway’s characters, along with the film’s focus on mentorship, generational cooperation, and navigating modern workplaces, helps explain why The Intern is enjoying renewed popularity. These elements give the story lasting relevance, making it relatable for young professionals and older viewers alike.
The speed at which The Intern shot to the top of Netflix’s movies demonstrates not only its lasting appeal but also the powerful impact of broad streaming availability. By making the film accessible to millions who may have missed it the first time, Netflix has helped to elevate a modest success into a true crowd-pleaser a decade after its initial release.
The Cast’s Role in the Film’s Enduring Achievement
In The Intern, Robert De Niro portrays Ben Whittaker, a 70-year-old widower who finds a new sense of purpose as a senior intern. Anne Hathaway plays Jules Ostin, whose innovative leadership at a fast-paced online fashion company is both inspiring and relatable. Their interactions—marked by respect, humor, and mutual learning—anchor the film’s success and have clearly resonated with today’s streaming audiences.
The film’s premise addresses themes of age, wisdom, adaptation, and the value of experience in a changing workplace. Through the lens of Whittaker and Ostin’s evolving friendship, The Intern offers insights into professional and personal growth that speak to viewers across generations.
The movie’s recent surge is a testament to its universal appeal, the draw of its high-profile cast, and the ability of platforms like Netflix to introduce well-crafted stories to wider audiences. With its top position on the Netflix US chart, The Intern has become a benchmark in how older films can find vibrant new life online, benefiting both fans of Robert De Niro and those discovering the film for the first time.
