Dustin Hoffman: Filming The Graduate Was Brutal
Newser • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Dustin Hoffman describes filming 1967's The Graduate as a "terrible experience" that heightened his insecurities as a Jewish actor playing the "ultimate Wasp," Ben Braddock.
- Director Mike Nichols, initially supportive during rehearsals, became harsh and demanding during shooting, subjecting Hoffman to numerous takes and physically challenging scenes.
- Hoffman felt Nichols' behavior was driven by frustration, possibly due to realizing Hoffman was miscast, and interprets the film as a reflection of Nichols' own self-loathing.
- The actor's reflections are shared in a New Yorker essay adapted from his upcoming memoir, Look at Me, set for release on November 10.
