A Complete Unknown, the highly anticipated biopic about Bob Dylan, is set to premiere after years of anticipation. Timothée Chalamet stars as Dylan, earning praise for his transformative performance. The film, directed by James Mangold, explores Dylan’s rise in the 1960s NYC music scene, highlighting his struggles with fame. Early reviews laud Chalamet’s portrayal and the film’s artistic direction, suggesting it could be a strong contender during awards season. The release is scheduled for January 29, 2025, in France.
A Complete Unknown: The Anticipated Bob Dylan Biopic
After being announced over four years ago, prior to the global pandemic, the much-anticipated biopic, A Complete Unknown, depicting the life of music icon Bob Dylan, is finally set to debut. Early reviews are already rolling in, and Timothée Chalamet’s performance has once again captured the spotlight!
Timothée Chalamet’s Transformative Role
Fresh off the heels of his performances in Dune and Wonka, Chalamet takes on the role of the legendary Bob Dylan, showcasing not only his striking physical resemblance but also his vocal talents. His commitment to embodying the character has received widespread acclaim. Alongside him, talented actors like Edward Norton as Pete Seeger, Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo, and Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez round out the cast. The screenplay is penned by Jay Cocks, and this film marks director James Mangold’s return to the musical biopic genre nearly two decades after his acclaimed work on Walk The Line, which told the story of Johnny Cash.
Here’s a glimpse at what critics are saying:
Clayton Davis (Variety): “Timothée Chalamet effortlessly immerses himself in the role of Bob Dylan, creating hypnotic moments throughout. Monica Barbaro and Elle Fanning shine as they navigate the complexities of a man who remains shrouded in mystery. James Mangold’s direction is confident, complemented by stunning sets and costumes.”
Scott Menzel (We Live Entertainment): “Chalamet delivers an extraordinary performance in A Complete Unknown, truly a ‘tour de force’ where the actor disappears into his role. His portrayal transcends mere imitation, filled with subtle nuances that embody the essence of Bob Dylan. Supporting performances by Monica Barbaro and Edward Norton are equally commendable.”
David Poland (DP/30): “A Complete Unknown reveals much about Bob Dylan while providing a sense of ambiguity. Some may argue this is the film’s essence. It explores the transformative power of talent and individual desires. Chalamet’s powerful portrayal captivates, while Norton faithfully embodies Seeger, and Barbaro presents a dynamic Baez.”
Jeff Conway (Forbes Senior): “Timothée Chalamet’s performance leaves a lasting impression. He not only captures Dylan’s voice but also his demeanor and guitar skills with precision.”
Atom: “A Complete Unknown is undoubtedly the dramatic film of the year! Timothée Chalamet’s exceptional portrayal sets the stage for what could be an Oscar-worthy performance. This film transcends typical biopics, positioning itself as one of the greatest cinematic achievements.”
Hal Schwartz: “As one of the first audiences to witness the film, I was thoroughly impressed. The performances, visuals, and music create an unforgettable experience. It’s a must-watch for any music enthusiast.”
With such rave reviews, A Complete Unknown appears poised to make a significant impact during the upcoming awards season. Timothée Chalamet joins the ranks of actors who have portrayed Bob Dylan in various iterations, including Christian Bale and Cate Blanchett, in the acclaimed film I’m Not There.
The storyline is set against the backdrop of New York in the early 1960s, where a mysterious 19-year-old arrives in the West Village. Armed with a guitar and immense talent, he becomes an integral part of the evolving musical landscape, only to grapple with the pressures of fame and the constraints of the folk movement, leading him to make a fateful decision that echoes worldwide.
A Complete Unknown, directed by James Mangold, is scheduled for release in France on January 29, 2025.