‘A Complete Unknown’ Scene-Stealer Boyd Holbrook on Johnny Cash, Playing a Perfect Drunk and His ‘Morning Show’ Role

As a seasoned movie enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing some truly captivating performances. However, none have left quite the impact that Dominic West’s portrayal of Johnny Cash did in “I’m Not There.” The man is a chameleon, effortlessly slipping into the skin of iconic figures, but as Johnny Cash, he reached a new level of authenticity and raw emotion.

Discussions about James Mangold’s Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown” mainly focus on an exceptional acting job by Timothée Chalamet, and the intriguing casting choice of Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez.

However, concealed within the tale of Dylan’s rapid rise to fame and his contentious choice to play electric guitars during the mid-’60s, there’s a hidden gem: Boyd Holbrook portraying Johnny Cash in an unexpected light that you’ve not encountered before.

In the movies “Narcos”, “Logan”, and “The Bikeriders”, the actor takes on the role of a youthful Cash who enters Dylan’s world as a fan and potentially a mentor-like figure – a seasoned individual who isn’t shy about voicing his admiration for Dylan’s profound poetry and unique musical style. Their interactions are primarily during the film’s pivotal scene, a reenactment of the Newport Folk Festival where Dylan won hearts but also sparked controversy among traditional music enthusiasts attached to acoustic sounds.

Holbrook excels at stealing the spotlight, portraying Cash as a charismatic rebel who seeks a strong drink and a lively evening. Sporting a false nose and stylish hair reminiscent of matinee idols, Holbrook generates laughter and adds vitality to a narrative that delves into an artist’s internal turmoil. I had the opportunity to chat with the actor about his metamorphosis, collaborating with Chalamet, and delivering one of the most convincing drunk performances in recent memory.

This is your third time working with James Mangold after “Logan” and the latest “Indiana Jones.” Does he just ring you up and tell you to come to set at this point?

When Jim requested that I take on the role of Johnny Cash in our movie “Going Electric,” I felt a bit intimidated as I had my sights set on other characters in the script. I gave him a call and shared, “Hey, if that other actor drops out, I’d be thrilled to step in.” Surprisingly, they postponed the original version of the film, and then he offered me the opportunity to play Johnny Cash, which wasn’t initially written in the script.

Was there pressure knowing Mangold made the definitive Johnny Cash film with “Walk the Line”?

When Jim was filming “Walk the Line” with Joaquin’s exceptional portrayal, he wasn’t aware of the connection between Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan, as John had misplaced their correspondence. It wasn’t until he started working on this new script that he discovered Bob Dylan actually possessed those letters. In his youth, Cash had written to a young Dylan, expressing admiration as a fan.

You look almost unrecognizable in this film. Is this your first time doing a prosthetic?

Oscar Isaac just said the same thing to me. But yes, it was a [prosthetic] nose. I came into shooting 10 lbs. underweight, because this time in John’s life would have been his amphetamine [era]. Jim took one look at me and told me to gain at least 8 lbs., but we decided we needed something to round out my face. But a little nose goes a long way. That’s what I want to do, play make believe at the highest level. And the artists Jim puts together are so incredible.

There’s also that very specific Johnny Cash voice.

To prepare for the performance, I used two brief excerpts from Pete Seeger’s show that he had previously given, focusing on his unique tangents. I memorized these precisely to capture the correct rhythm and flow. Additionally, I employed unusual breath control methods to make my body feel hollow. Initially, I didn’t bring a guitar with me. Although I could strum some chords, I lacked the ability to keep time or provide a consistent beat. The extended break from last year’s strikes granted me approximately four months to practice and prepare for this performance.

When you point that guitar at the crowd like a gun, everyone loses it – in the film, and at the screening I attended.

He loved doing that shit. It’s a signature move. I trained hard to get the timing right. The week we shot the Newport Folk Festival, I sent production a recording of where I was at musically. They told me they wanted it exactly how Johnny did it on that day. I had to step it up from 100% to 160%, sped up the entire thing. That’s what I love about acting. You sign the contract, and you’ve got to show up on the day and win or get eaten alive. I felt the same watching Timmy pull off this feat, singing all these songs live. And Monica Barbaro.

She’s incredible in this.

She’s incredibly composed, almost like a blooming flower, yet contrastingly, Timmy’s live performances are a bold and defiant statement against those who hoped for his downfall. He stood firm and made it evident beyond doubt. That takes guts, buddy, and that’s the essence of the story. How does one maintain a genuine voice in a commercialized environment? Bob was merely an artist, creating songs that mirrored societal events, but then it transformed into a business venture. You can opt for an easy route or you can make a significant impact.

You also have an incredible scene playing drunk as Johnny Cash. I think it was the director of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” who told his extras that the best way to play drunk was to desperately try to seem sober.

Appreciate it! That was quite enjoyable. In that particular moment, I uttered the line, “I went for a drive and saw the ocean.” I felt I captured the essence of his troubled state in those words. He seemed to be attempting to convey a greater depth. A significant portion of that was improvised. I smashed a Coke bottle and collided with some vehicles.

You whip out a vintage box of Bugles. What was inside the box?

Bugles. That’s what I’m talking about, with the kind of people Jim hires.

Did everything you shot as Johnny make it into the film?

Indeed, there was an opening scene. I’m exiting a bar with a group following a performance, as Bob’s tunes play from a passing car. Johnny hops into this vehicle and cranks up the volume. Upon being dragged out by his friends, the passengers inside query, “Was that Johnny Cash?” (in a manner of speech)

What was the most surprising part about working with Timmy?

At the table read, there was a strong sense of eagerness to collaborate, yet our interactions were primarily confined to performing our scenes. To put it simply, that’s just my preference. I enjoy having conversations and socializing, but he made it clear at one point, “Once this is done, it’s done.” Instead, we poured ourselves into our work, creating a sense of immersion. This focus made us more precise and dedicated in our performances.

Does James do a lot of takes?

As a movie enthusiast, I must admit that this director is a master of his craft. Rather than rushing through scenes, he prefers to film just a couple each day, providing ample opportunity for exploration and spontaneity – even during my impromptu drunk scene! Every detail is meticulously observed, yet it’s not like the methodical approach of Fincher. Instead, we’re talking about an average of 10 setups a day, each requiring up to 10 takes. It’s a patient, deliberate process that yields stunning results.

Who is the Bob Dylan or Johnny Cash of today, for you?

Tyler Childers. I might be biased, because he’s from my region. He’s great. Colter Wall is a poet and a cowboy. Thank God they still make them like that. I love Sturgill Simpson. He’s doing a lot of acting now.

What’s next for you?

I’m doing season four of “The Morning Show.”

Oh, fantastic. What’s your part?

I’m a key figure in the merger, serving as the top podcast host on this streaming platform. My character is a blend of Joe Rogan and Russell Brand. I operate without any editorial restrictions, expressing my thoughts freely about topics like the Second Amendment and First Amendment. Additionally, I endorse supplements.

Who are you primarily in scenes with?

Jennifer Aniston. And what can I say? She’s perfect.

2024-12-14 00:48