Greta Burroughs

The 2005 film "Rumor Has It," directed by Rob Reiner, centers on Sarah Huttinger, who discovers her family may have inspired the novel "The Graduate." While attending her sister's wedding, Sarah learns from her grandmother and her mother's best friend that her mother, Jocelyn, had a past relationship with Beau Burroughs, a man connected to the author of "The Graduate." This leads Sarah to question her own parentage and her grandmother's potential connection to the character Mrs. Robinson.

Sarah confronts Beau, a wealthy tech entrepreneur, who admits to relationships with both Sarah's mother and grandmother. He also reveals he is sterile, thus not Sarah's biological father. Despite initial guilt, Sarah becomes involved with Beau, even attending a charity ball with him, which is witnessed by her fiancé, Jeff. The film culminates in Sarah realizing her true feelings for Jeff and reconciling with him, concluding with their wedding. The narrative also clarifies that Sarah's father, Earl, was aware of the affair and that Jocelyn returned to him, with Sarah conceived shortly after her return.

The central premise of "Rumor Has It" revolves around a perceived connection between the Huttinger family's romantic entanglements and the iconic 1963 novel "The Graduate" by Charles Webb. Protagonist Sarah Huttinger uncovers evidence suggesting her mother, grandmother, and a figure named Beau Burroughs were involved in a complex relationship that may have served as the inspiration for the novel's plot. Specifically, Sarah's grandmother, Katharine Richelieu, is speculated to be the model for the older woman who seduces a younger man, and her daughter, Sarah's mother Jocelyn, is believed to have been involved with the same man, Beau Burroughs. This familial mystery forms the core of Sarah's personal journey throughout the film.

The film delves into the intricate and often surprising relationships within the Huttinger and Richelieu families. Sarah's investigation into her family's past uncovers a history of unconventional romantic behavior and hidden truths. Her grandmother, Katharine, is revealed to have had a relationship with Beau Burroughs, as did Sarah's mother, Jocelyn. This revelation leads Sarah to question her own parentage and her place within this lineage of complex relationships. The narrative also explores the dynamics between Sarah and her fiancé, Jeff, as her discoveries impact their own commitment, and ultimately highlights the enduring nature of familial bonds and the acceptance of past actions.

The production of "Rumor Has It" experienced significant changes, with Rob Reiner taking over directing duties after initial director Ted Griffin was dismissed. Reiner made substantial alterations to the script, cast, and crew. Upon its release, the film garnered negative reviews from critics, with common criticisms pointing to a lightweight plot and underdeveloped characters, despite acknowledging the efforts of its cast, including Jennifer Aniston, Kevin Costner, and Shirley MacLaine. It also underperformed at the box office, failing to recoup its production budget. Audiences, however, provided a more moderate reception, with CinemaScore polling indicating an average grade of "B".