Dustin Hoffman recalls 'terrible' experience filming his first Oscar-nominated role
Page Six • • entertainment
Key Points:
- Dustin Hoffman revealed in his upcoming memoir "Look at Me" that he had a "terrible" experience filming the 1967 classic "The Graduate," often feeling anxious and fearing he would be fired by director Mike Nichols.
- Hoffman described Nichols as shifting from a "wonderful" person to a critical and angry director once shooting began, leading to a destabilizing and stressful atmosphere on set.
- Nichols reportedly regretted casting Hoffman as Benjamin Braddock, with harsh critiques extending to Hoffman's physical appearance and acting choices, causing Hoffman significant emotional strain.
- Despite the difficult production, "The Graduate" became a critically acclaimed film, earning Nichols an Oscar for Best Director and Hoffman his first Academy Award nomination and a Golden Globe win.
- Hoffman characterized the film as a "self-portrait" of Nichols, reflecting the director's personal struggles, and his memoir detailing these experiences is set for release on November 10.
