Hollywood thrives on captivating musical biopics, and A Complete Unknown, centered on the iconic Bob Dylan, seems set to join the ranks of classics like Bohemian Rhapsody and Rocketman. Directed by James Mangold and based on Elijah Wald’s 2015 book Dylan Goes Electric!, the film explores Dylan’s rise as a folk legend in 1960s New York, culminating in his groundbreaking electric performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965.
The buzz ahead of its December 25th release is electrifying, with critics heaping praise on Timothée Chalamet for his portrayal of the enigmatic Dylan. Scott Menzel describes Chalamet’s performance as “the performance of the year,” commending his attention to Dylan’s subtle mannerisms. Monica Barbaro and Edward Norton, portraying Joan Baez and Pete Seeger respectively, also draw acclaim for their layered performances, with some suggesting they outshine Chalamet.
Variety’s Clayton Davis highlights Mangold’s confident direction, the film’s meticulous set designs, and its evocative costumes. The Playlist’s Gregory Ellwood, despite his self-confessed indifference to folk music, finds the film “shockingly moving” and advocates for a Joan Baez spin-off starring Barbaro.
Critics have noted the film’s ability to encapsulate Dylan’s mystique. David Poland points out that the narrative “tells us everything about Bob Dylan while telling us almost nothing,” a reflection of the artist’s enduring elusiveness. Beyond Dylan’s story, the movie celebrates the power of individuality and creativity in a rapidly shifting world.
The cast, including Elle Fanning as Dylan’s first New York girlfriend, Boyd Holbrook, and Dan Fogler, rounds out a stellar ensemble that breathes life into Mangold’s vision. With Oscar buzz already swirling around Chalamet’s portrayal, A Complete Unknown promises to strike a chord with audiences and critics alike.
The early reactions to A Complete Unknown suggest a film that transcends the typical biopic formula. Timothée Chalamet’s commitment to embodying Dylan’s enigmatic persona appears to elevate the narrative, but what intrigues me most is the focus on Dylan’s early years and the broader cultural context of the 1960s folk revival. While Chalamet’s performance might dominate headlines, Monica Barbaro and Edward Norton’s portrayals of Joan Baez and Pete Seeger add depth and nuance, making this more than just Dylan’s story. It’s a tribute to a transformative era in music.
That said, biopics often struggle to balance authenticity with entertainment. I’m curious to see how Mangold navigates Dylan’s complex legacy, especially given critiques about the film’s ambiguous storytelling approach.
What aspect of Bob Dylan’s legacy are you most excited to see explored in A Complete Unknown—his music, his mystique, or his cultural impact?
