‘A Complete Unknown’ Review: Timothée Chalamet Electrifies as Bob Dylan

James Mangold’s A Complete Unknown brings a fresh cinematic take on Bob Dylan’s transformative early years. With Timothée Chalamet stepping into the enigmatic artist’s shoes, the film dives into Dylan’s journey from a budding folk singer to a cultural icon who disrupted the music world by going electric. This review unpacks how Mangold’s direction, Chalamet’s performance, and Dylan’s legacy come together in this compelling biographical drama.

A Transformative Role: Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan

Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal of Dylan captures the complexities of the legendary artist, embodying his poetic mystique and rebellious spirit. Known for his softer and more introspective roles, Chalamet surprises audiences with his intense, almost haunting gaze, which he uses to channel Dylan’s disruptive energy.

Unlike traditional biopics, A Complete Unknown doesn’t try to decode Dylan entirely. Instead, it presents him as a multifaceted enigma — poet, prophet, and provocateur. Chalamet’s raw singing performance adds an authentic touch, paying homage to Dylan’s early hits like “Song to Woody” and “A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall.”

The Film’s Focus: A Turning Point in Dylan’s Career

The narrative spans four pivotal years in Dylan’s life, culminating in his groundbreaking performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. This was the moment Dylan shocked the folk community by going electric, a bold move that divided fans and critics alike.

The film captures this seismic shift with finesse, showcasing Dylan as both a revolutionary artist and a polarizing figure. The tension between his acoustic roots and his desire to innovate is palpable, making the Newport performance with “Maggie’s Farm” a climactic highlight.

Greenwich Village: A Bohemian Dreamscape

Dylan’s arrival in New York’s Greenwich Village is beautifully depicted, though with a touch of art-directed nostalgia. The vibrant folk scene comes alive as Dylan rubs shoulders with legends like Pete Seeger (played by Edward Norton) and forms complicated relationships, including with Sylvie Russo (Elle Fanning) and Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro).

Mangold crafts a visually rich setting, blending the bohemian charm of the Village with the cultural and political turmoil of the 1960s. The era’s energy is palpable, from smoky coffee houses to the civil rights movement’s echoes in Dylan’s protest songs.

Romance, Rivalry, and Genius

The film delves into Dylan’s relationships, particularly his dynamic with Joan Baez and Sylvie Russo. While Russo represents the pain and sacrifices made by those closest to Dylan, Baez stands as a musical equal, her star power and chemistry with Dylan adding layers to their partnership.

These relationships are as much about inspiration and rivalry as they are about love. Chalamet’s portrayal subtly hints at Dylan’s ambition and his ability to absorb and reflect the brilliance of those around him.

Why ‘A Complete Unknown’ Stands Out

Mangold’s approach to Dylan’s story avoids the pitfalls of hagiography. The film acknowledges Dylan’s flaws — his aloofness, ambition, and occasional cruelty — without trying to explain them away. This layered portrayal keeps Dylan’s genius both fascinating and elusive.

The film also avoids over-sentimentalizing Dylan’s rise. Instead, it juxtaposes his artistic growth with the purist ideals of the folk community, capturing the tensions between authenticity and innovation, art and commerce.

Timothée Chalamet’s Career-Defining Performance

While Chalamet may not physically or vocally match Dylan perfectly, his performance transcends mimicry. His portrayal captures the essence of Dylan’s creative chaos and enigmatic personality, making him a believable and compelling Bob Dylan.

Chalamet’s performance, coupled with Mangold’s nuanced direction, ensures that A Complete Unknown resonates not just with Dylan fans but also with anyone intrigued by the complexities of artistic genius.