A Complete Unknown (2024) directed by James Mangold, is a biographical picture about American singer-songwriter, Bob Dylan. The film is based on the 2015 book, Dylan Goes Electric, detailing the beginning of Dylan’s career as a folk singer and his evolution to rock and roll. The books namesake references lyrics from Dylan’s song “Like a Rolling Stone.” Two-time academy nominee Timothee Chalamet plays Bob Dylan. The film is full of great performances by supporting actors Elle Fanning and Monica Barbaro, who play Slyvia Russo (based on Dylan’s real-life former girlfriend Suze Rotolo), and folk-singer Joan Baez, respectively.
The film was made to appeal to established fans of Bob Dylan and to introduce new generations to him. To this day, Dylan has not faded into obscurity and remains recognized as a generational songwriter and talent. Fans were initially unsure if the film would do justice to Dylan’s career and legacy. Fortunately, Chalamet had a compelling performance and was commended by Bob Dylan on X (formerly twitter) for the portrayal of a younger version of himself. The actor has a convincing impression of both Dylan’s singing and speaking voice, an indicator of the work and care put into the performance as Chalamet also learned to play the harmonica and took singing lessons to prepare for the world. Chalamet is not shy in interviews about stating the admiration he has for Dylan. The project was projected for a four-month preproduction, but COVID-19 and the SAG-AFTRA strike extended it to a five-year-long process. Chalamet used this opportunity to refine his role. Cast members alike have commented on Chalamet’s unwavering dedication to the role.
Chalamet’s performance was coupled with an excellent showcase of talent from Monica Barbado, who steals the spotlight every moment she appears on screen. It is not an exaggeration to say the actors carry the film on their back. While Joan Baez’ characters is less developed, when Barbado presents Joan Baez, you are inclined to dedicate your attention to her presence. The actors covering the songs make the film feel more immersive.
Johnny Cash, played by Boyd Holbrook, was a wonderful addition to the cast. He appears on screen around three times, all of which were entertaining to watch.
The film itself does not criticize or worship Bob Dylan. Dylan is shown as the complex person and talented musician he is.
The biggest flaw present in the film was the decisions surrounding the supporting actresses. Sylvie does not become as familiar with the audience as Joan does. Fanning’s character feels like an extension of Bob Dylan: a narrative choice to represent a period of Dylan’s life. It was disappointing to not see the full scope of Elle Fanning’s acting in her role. However, she does well with the screen time she is given, and Sylvie is an easy person to like.
Biopics have a higher chance of succeeding when it takes time to tell the story. They often require a longer runtime, but in this case, it is an asset and not a detractor. I would rate this film 3 ½ shields.
