In an extraordinary revelation about the upcoming Bob Dylan biopic "A Complete Unknown," it has emerged that the legendary musician performed a complete script reading, playing himself, before approving the project.
Producer Peter Jaysen disclosed on The Town Podcast that Dylan, 83, met multiple times with director James Mangold for script consultations. During one notable session, Mangold read all parts and stage directions while Dylan exclusively performed his own dialogue, making notes throughout the reading.
The intimate script review culminated in Dylan's blessing for the project, signing the annotated script with the words "Go with God." While the folk icon didn't have final script approval, his involvement in the development process was extensive.
Rising star Timothée Chalamet, who landed the coveted role of young Dylan, has expressed keen interest in obtaining the annotated script, though he admits it remains out of reach. The 28-year-old actor embraced an intense preparation process, including a three-month isolation period without any outside contact.
"No visitors, no friends, no reps, no nothing," Chalamet told Rolling Stone, describing his dedicated approach to embodying the music legend. The actor spent five years preparing for the role, determined not to waste a moment of character development during the final three months of intensive preparation.
The biopic, which chronicles Dylan's controversial rise in the 1960s folk music scene, will feature Chalamet performing his own vocals to capture Dylan's distinctive sound. "A Complete Unknown" is scheduled to release in UK cinemas on January 17, 2025.
The film's title draws from Dylan's extensive musical legacy, promising an intimate look at the artist's formative years and the personal challenges that accompanied his meteoric rise to fame.