In a remarkable display of involvement in his upcoming biopic, legendary musician Bob Dylan participated in a complete script reading of "A Complete Unknown" alongside director James Mangold before giving his approval for the project.
According to producer Peter Jaysen, speaking on The Town podcast, Dylan and Mangold met multiple times to review the script. During one notable session, they performed a complete read-through, with Mangold reading all parts and stage directions while Dylan read only his own dialogue.
Throughout the reading, Dylan took detailed notes on the script. After their final session together, he signed the manuscript and offered his blessing with the words "Go with God."
While Dylan didn't have final script approval, his participation in the development process was extensive. The film, starring Timothée Chalamet as the iconic musician, chronicles Dylan's rise to fame in the 1960s and the controversies that surrounded his impact on folk music.
Chalamet, who performs his own vocals in the role, has expressed keen interest in obtaining the annotated script, though he admits he'll likely "never get his hands on it." The actor took an intense approach to the role, isolating himself for three months during filming with "no visitors, no friends, no reps, no nothing."
Though Dylan has publicly praised Chalamet as a "brilliant actor," he hasn't confirmed whether he has watched the completed film. "A Complete Unknown" is set to release in UK cinemas on January 17, 2025.