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

In the mesmerizing drama, “A Complete Unknown,” Timothée Chalamet brilliantly embodies the enigmatic spirit of Bob Dylan during his pivotal rise to fame. The film, which tells the story of Dylan’s early days, captivates with a blend of rich storytelling and musical prowess, wrapped in Chalamet's compelling performance that surprises and chills with depth.

The film asserts that there are numerous iterations of Bob Dylan—poet, prophet, and a misunderstood genius. Rather than confining the legendary figure to one narrative form, “A Complete Unknown” embraces Dylan's complexity, portraying him as a transformative force delivered from the heart of Minnesota to the vibrant streets of New York. Captured in Chalamet’s nuanced portrayal, we see the awkward charm and layered cruelty of a young artist grappling with an immense creative weight.

Dylan’s arrival in New York is depicted through a gray, wintry lens, vividly showcasing the bohemian essence of Greenwich Village—a spectacular hub for artists and dreamers. However, the film’s aesthetic occasionally suffers from overly stylized settings that risk diluting the gritty realism of the era. As the story unfolds, we witness Dylan's gradual acceptance into the ever-evolving folk movement, highlighted by his humble equipment—a guitar adorned with the emblematic phrase, “this machine kills fascists,” echoing the sentiments of his idol, Woody Guthrie.

Drawing inspiration from Elijah Wald’s nonfiction work, “Dylan Goes Electric!,” the film navigates through Bob’s tumultuous journey with fluid storytelling. Written by James Mangold and Jay Cocks, “A Complete Unknown” delineates a struggle between artistic authenticity and commercial pressures, as Bob simultaneously seeks validation and wrestles with the burgeoning fame that awaits him.

The film also introduces significant figures, such as the renowned activist Sylvie Russo, played by Elle Fanning, and the iconic Joan Baez, portrayed by Monica Barbaro. While Baez is celebrated as a seasoned artist, Russo represents a more complex, sympathetic figure shadowed by Dylan’s growing ambition. This creates a compelling, albeit at times uneven, juxtaposition where the characters orbit around Dylan’s genius, often to their detriment.

“Mangold, known for his adeptness with actors, crafts moments that illuminate the emotional struggles of Dylan and his circle. However, some character portrayals, particularly Russo's, lean heavily into martyrdom, overshadowing her own narrative arc.” The film successfully illuminates Dylan’s complex relationships, including his unreciprocated desires while establishing the contrasting figures of Baez and Russo.

Featuring a captivating blend of historical context, the film also brushes against the political turmoil of the time, such as the civil rights movement and the Cuban missile crisis. However, “A Complete Unknown” sometimes risks sacrificing deeper exploration of these themes, opting instead for a narrative focused on authenticity and the profound truths conveyed through music.

Chalamet’s captivating performance, while not necessarily as flamboyant as past interpretations of Dylan, manages to embody the era's spirit, creating a fresh, introspective lens through which to view one of music's most influential figures. The intricate details of the film, from its striking visuals to the vivid portrayal of the '60s folk scene, resonate deeply with viewers, drawing them into an era marked by both creativity and conflict.

In conclusion, “A Complete Unknown” ultimately succeeds by not only recounting Dylan’s rise but by embracing the mystique that surrounds him. The film leaves audiences pondering the nature of authenticity and artistry, echoing the sentiment that sometimes, the most captivating story is that of a beautifully enigmatic con artist.

A Complete Unknown