Key Takeaways:
– Richard Dreyfuss adopted a unique campaign to land the lead role in Spielberg’s Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
– Despite featuring in Spielberg’s acclaimed Jaws, Dreyfuss wasn’t the initial choice for the role.
– Even attracting heavyweights like Al Pacino and Jack Nicholson, Spielberg sought an actor who could mirror Neary’s unconventional character.
– Creating a daily norm, Dreyfuss subtly criticized other A-listers as he strolled past Spielberg’s office.
– The relentless efforts paid off when Dreyfuss successfully persuaded Spielberg to cast him.
Richard Dreyfuss Badmouthed His Way into a Role:
Richard Dreyfuss, famously known for his performance in Steven Spielberg’s Jaws, went beyond the traditional audition process to secure a role in another Spielberg’s classic, Close Encounters of the Third Kind. Although Dreyfuss had delivered a memorable performance in Jaws, Spielberg had other actors in mind for the lead role in his Close Encounters.
Spielberg’s Hunt for the Neary Character:
Spielberg was on a hunt for an unconventional actor to depict the eccentric character of Neary. He explored various options, including screen stalwarts like Steve McQueen, Al Pacino, Gene Hackman, and Jack Nicholson. However, McQueen declined Spielberg’s offer, and Nicholson allegedly stepped back, fearing overshadowed by special effects. Yet, among this competition, Dreyfuss emerged as a strategically self-promoted frontrunner.
Spielberg’s considerations oscillated with heavyweights like Pacino and Hackman. Still, the intensity of Jack Nicholson’s performance in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest seemed to sync with Neary’s atypical persona, making him the prime contender.
Dreyfuss’s Relentless Pursuit for the Role:
However, undeterred by the formidable competition, Dreyfuss embarked on a persistent campaign to caramel the role. His tactics even caught Spielberg’s attention, who noted, “Dreyfuss talked me into casting him… He even contributed ideas.”
Dreyfuss’s campaign involved subtly mocking his competitors. He openly badmouthed each potential contender, colorfully commenting on their drawbacks as he casually sauntered past Spielberg’s office. His candid approach ultimately swayed Spielberg and landed him the coveted role.
The Success of Close Encounters of the Third Kind:
Dreyfuss’s incredible dedication certainly paid dividends. Close Encounters of the Third Kind, telling the story of an ordinary blue-collar worker’s life-altering encounter with a UFO, quickly became one of Spielberg’s most successful films. Garnering a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 7.6 score on IMDb, the movie received widespread critical acclaim.
Conclusion:
The story of Dreyfuss’ unorthodox approach to landing a role highlights the competitiveness within Hollywood’s ecosystem. His unique campaign underscores the lengths actors sometimes need to go to secure roles in high-profile films. For Dreyfuss, his bold tactic paid off, securing him a place in one of Spielberg’s most memorable movies.
