How do you prepare to play one of the most famous (and famously enigmatic) performers in history?
Obviously, there is a very brave, brash entertainer who hits the stage.
And then there is a human being who can be reclusive and lonely behind closed doors.
Alex Bailey/Fox
That punch in of childhood is emblematic of someone who is starving for identity.
That duality gave the 37-year-old actor a pathway to capturing the late singers magnetism.
They gave us creative freedom, says producer Graham King of Mercurys bandmates.
I wanted to keep them as involved as possible.
I needed their blessing for my own personal peace of mind.
When you put in those teeth, he says, theres a very visceral change to the performance.
When I took them out by the end of the film, I felt quite naked.
I think its a very balanced film that shows both sides of his sexuality, says Graham.
We dont disrespect that.
Despite the frustrations, the cast and filmmakers were determined to tie things up.
I can wholeheartedly say I would never let this film be unfinished, says Malek about Singers firing.
Every moment where there was a challenge on set, I just reminded myself: What would Freddie do?
And I guarantee, he wouldve seen it through.
