Dustin Hoffman Pens Essay About 'Terrible Experience' Making The Graduate

Dustin Hoffman has penned an essay detailing what he describes as a 'terrible experience' while making the classic 1967 film 'The Graduate', according to multiple reports. In the piece, Hoffman recounts several memorable anecdotes from the production, including one where co-star Katharine Ross reportedly slapped him 27 times for a scene that didn't make the final cut of the film ²³.

Hoffman’s recollections paint a picture of a tumultuous shoot, with director Mike Nichols seemingly displeased with the leading man throughout the process ¹⁴. This tension was compounded by Hoffman's own insecurities about playing the role of Ben Braddock, a character from a different social background, as a Jewish actor ¹.

The film, directed by Nichols, went on to be nominated for seven Oscars and won Best Director at the 40th Academy Awards ¹². However, the road to success was not without its physical challenges for Hoffman. He suffered an eardrum puncture while filming an underwater scene in a scuba suit ¹².

In addition to these trials, Hoffman also faced changes to his appearance at Nichols' behest. The director removed Hoffman's monobrow and adjusted his nose, among other alterations ¹. Furthermore, theatre director Ulu Grosbard visited the set and informed Hoffman that Nichols had second thoughts about casting him in the lead role ⁴.

Anne Bancroft, who played Mrs. Robinson, also experienced her share of difficulties during filming. She fainted during a scene and required oxygen ¹.

What we know

• Dustin Hoffman described filming 'The Graduate' as a terrible experience ¹²³⁴
• Katharine Ross reportedly slapped Dustin Hoffman 27 times for a scene that did not make the final cut of the film ²³
• Mike Nichols directed 'The Graduate' ¹²³⁴
• Hoffman punctured an eardrum while filming an underwater scene in a scuba suit ¹²
• 'The Graduate' was nominated for seven Oscars and won best director at the 40th Academy Awards ¹²
• Hoffman believed Nichols was angry with him throughout the filming process ¹⁴
• Hoffman felt insecure and unworthy playing the role of Ben Braddock, a WASP character, as a Jewish actor ¹
• Nichols frequently changed Hoffman's appearance, including removing his monobrow and adjusting his nose ¹
• Theatre director Ulu Grosbard visited the set and told Hoffman that Nichols regretted hiring him for the lead role ⁴
• Anne Bancroft fainted during a scene and needed oxygen ¹