Artist: Bob Dylan Performed a Reading of the 'A Complete Unknown' Screenplay
While director of A Complete Unknown, James Mangold isn't certain if Bob Dylan will ever watch the movie, he did get the opportunity to listen to Dylan read the script out loud, according to one of the film's producers.
Starring Timotheé Chalamet as Dylan during a crucial period in his life and career from 1961 to 1965, A Complete Unknown hit theaters on Christmas Day.
In a conversation with Business Insider, Mangold confessed, "I honestly have no idea" when asked if he thinks Dylan will watch the film.
"I understand his dilemma," Mangold continued. "Do I ever want to watch a movie where someone is portraying me, acting out significant moments in my life? Will it be enjoyable or will it be downright strange?"
Mangold further shared that Dylan not only took the time to read the script he co-wrote with Jay Cocks, but also provided feedback, suggestions, and pointed out where he would adjust certain songs.
"He shared his knowledge and insights about that era, so I could delve deeper into those scenes. It was a tremendous gift and the most generosity I could ever expect from him," Mangold added.
According to A Complete Unknown producer Peter Jaysen in a recent appearance on the The Town With Matthew Bellonipodcast (via Consequence), Dylan even went as far as to do a table read of the script with Mangold.
"He met with Jim Mangold multiple times," Jaysen informed Belloni. "At one point, they sat there and read the entire script aloud. Mangold read every part and stage direction, while Dylan only read his lines of dialogue.
"Through this process, Dylan jotted down notes on the script," Jaysen elaborated. "At the end of the last session with Mangold, he signed the script and said, 'Go with God.'"
The Bob Dylan Biopic Is Impressing Critics, Audiences, and Awards Season Voters
Rotten Tomatoes critics up to now have collectively given A Complete Unknown a 78% "fresh" rating based on 202 reviews.
The RT Critics Consensus reads, "Powered by Timothée Chalamet's electrifying performance, this Dylan tale might not crack the enigmatic artist's shell, but it will make you feel like you've spent time in his company."
Even more appreciative of A Complete Unknown are RT’s users, who have given the film a 96% "fresh" rating on the site's Popcornmeter based on over 2,500 verified ratings.
But the favorable reception for A Complete Unknown doesn't stop there. The film has also received Best Picture nominations from the Golden Globes (Motion Picture Drama) and the Critics Choice Awards, as well as Best Actor nominations from both organizations for Timothée Chalamet.
Since its release on Dec. 25, A Complete Unknown, according to The Numbers, has earned $25.6 million from 2,835 theaters.
Also starring Edward Norton, Elle Fanning, Monica Barbaro, and Boyd Holbrook, the Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown is still playing in theaters.
- Despite director James Mangold's uncertainty, Bob Dylan, a complete unknown when it comes to watching his movie, had provided valuable feedback and suggestions during the script-writing process.
- In 'A Complete Unknown', Timothee Chalamet portrays Bob Dylan during a pivotal period in his life and career, with the movie featuring Bob Dylan songs from 1961 to 1965.
- The cast of 'A Complete Unknown' includes Timothee Chalamet, but director James Mangold revealed that Bob Dylan himself had participated in a table read of the script, showing his interest in the biopic.
- Bob Dylan's involvement in the biopic 'A Complete Unknown' goes beyond just being a subject, as the legendary musician read the script and even provided feedback, pointing out areas for adjustments in the songs.
- James Mangold, the director of 'A Complete Unknown', expressed gratitude for Bob Dylan's participation and generosity, stating that it was a "tremendous gift" and the most he could have ever expected from the music icon.
