Biopics often inflate their subjects’ personas, sacrificing their depth in favor of spectacle. However, A Complete Unknown navigates the complexities of Bob Dylan’s character while maintaining an intentional distance. Directed by James Mangold, who co-wrote the screenplay with Jay Cocks, this film leaves the audience feeling somewhat estranged from the enigmatic artist. It seems crafted to obscure any revelations about Dylan, which, while potentially deliberate, detracts from the storytelling experience.
This film draws from Elijah Wald’s book, *Dylan Goes Electric! Newport, Seeger, Dylan, and the Night That Split the Sixties*, capturing a pivotal moment in music history. It depicts the electrifying night at Newport Folk Festival, where Dylan’s blend of sound incited both cheers and boos from the audience. We see Dylan, portrayed by Timothée Chalamet, as a young man arriving in New York City in 1961, seeking out the legendary folk musician Woody Guthrie (played by Scoot McNairy). In a poignant scene, Dylan performs for Guthrie and fellow artist Bob Seeger (Edward Norton), marking the onset of his illustrious career.
A Complete Unknown Keeps The Audience At A Distance
Upon Dylan’s arrival in New York, his backstory remains largely unexplored, enhancing his mystique as the narrative shifts focus to his musical journey and its impact. From intimate music venues to the expansive Newport Folk Festival, the film engages with Dylan’s magnetic presence and the public’s fascination with him, albeit superficially. The depiction of his relationship with girlfriend Sylvie Russo (Elle Fanning), a character inspired by Suze Russo, and folk icon Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro) offers limited insight. Fanning’s talent feels underutilized, portraying a subtle frustration with Dylan’s ascent to fame and its associated turmoil. Intriguingly, the emotional depth of both women resonates more than Dylan’s character itself, who remains enigmatic behind his sunglasses and composed demeanor.
While the narrative seeks to explore an artist reluctant to share his inner thoughts, this approach creates an emotional chasm that detracts from audience investment. Watching Dylan’s journey often felt like an exercise in detachment, significantly diminishing my engagement with the storyline. The film is rooted firmly in the 1960s, despite acknowledging Dylan’s expansive career. While devoted fans might relish the experience, A Complete Unknown ultimately serves as a compelling yet frustrating biopic.
The true strength of *A Complete Unknown* lies in its musical performances, where Chalamet’s portrayal of Dylan truly ignites. It is within these scenes that emotion is most palpable, showcasing a vibrant connection to Dylan’s extensive 1960s discography. Memorable moments, such as the performance of “The Times They Are a-Changin’” and the duet “It Ain’t Me Babe” with Baez, elevate the narrative beyond mere exposition.
A Complete Unknown’s Performances Are A Standout
Timothée Chalamet Is Well-Cast
Chalamet masterfully embodies Dylan, from his signature raspy voice to his nuanced mannerisms. His portrayal captures Dylan’s carefree yet introspective nature, making the performance captivating. When faced with a dismissive audience, Chalamet exhibits frustration while maintaining composure, encapsulating the artist’s complex spirit in a way that is both challenging and rewarding.
Supporting cast members also shine, particularly Barbaro as Joan Baez, who delivers a heartfelt performance rich with emotional layers. Her nuanced expressions—ranging from exasperation to adoration—enhance the film’s emotional landscape. Edward Norton’s portrayal of Bob Seeger also impresses, offering a well-measured performance that contrasts warmth with an underlying desire for control, adding depth to the storytelling.
In essence, *A Complete Unknown* finds itself balancing between profound insights and a lack of depth. It features solid character development leading up to Dylan’s electric performance at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965, capturing the captivating tension between folk purists like Seeger and Dylan’s evolving sound. Yet, the film maintains a certain detachment akin to watching Dylan from afar in a sold-out arena—audible yet intangible. While this concept aligns with the title, the execution can leave viewers feeling somewhat disengaged.
A Complete Unknown premieres in theaters on December 25. The film runs for 141 minutes and carries an R rating for language.
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