Richard Dreyfuss, a familiar face in Steven Spielberg’s filmography, went to unorthodox lengths to land a role in one of their collaborations. While Dreyfuss’s performance in Jaws cemented his status as a leading actor, it wasn’t a smooth sail to win the role in Close Encounters of the Third Kind.
A still of Richard Dreyfuss in Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977).
Steven Spielberg explored various options by seeking an actor with a touch of eccentricity to portray the role. Initially considering names like Steve McQueen, Al Pacino, Gene Hackman, and Jack Nicholson, Spielberg had his eyes set on an actor who could embody Neary’s beloved yet unconventional character.
Suggested‘Halloween’ Director John Carpenter Dismissed 1 Steven Spielberg Film as “Pretentious”, Claimed Director “Lost control of it”
Amidst the competition, Richard Dreyfuss emerged as a frontrunner by strategically advocating for himself. Going beyond traditional auditioning, Dreyfuss adopted a bold approach.
A still of Richard Dreyfuss in Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977).
Steven Spielberg explored various options by seeking an actor with a touch of eccentricity to portray the role. Initially considering names like Steve McQueen, Al Pacino, Gene Hackman, and Jack Nicholson, Spielberg had his eyes set on an actor who could embody Neary’s beloved yet unconventional character.
Suggested‘Halloween’ Director John Carpenter Dismissed 1 Steven Spielberg Film as “Pretentious”, Claimed Director “Lost control of it”
Amidst the competition, Richard Dreyfuss emerged as a frontrunner by strategically advocating for himself. Going beyond traditional auditioning, Dreyfuss adopted a bold approach.
- 3/16/2024
- by Prantik Prabal Roy
- FandomWire
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