I have just two words for producerLawrence Turman, whodied Saturdayat 96.
I was then growing up in the working-class suburbs of Detroit.
One of the pictures that night wasThe Graduate, produced by Turman (and directed by Mike Nichols).
Lawrence TurmanMichael Buckner/Getty Images
Although Id never given it one minutes thought before, I went home knowing I would live in California.
Beverly Hills to Berkeley.
Berkeley to Beverly Hills.
And in a red Alfa Romeo, no less.Who didnt want that?
Along with Rays then-son-in-law John Morrissey, Turman was wrestling withAmerican History X, a difficult production.
When his dander was up, you could hear Larry Turman through floors and walls.
Then again, he played the quiet parts beautifully.
Larry was attentive, inquisitive, wily, helpful, available.
Larry later said the story helped him to land a book deal.
That would have been the tiniest down payment on what he was due forThe Graduate.
For the balance, I can only say, Thank you.
