When creating a film about Bob Dylan, it was essential for the songs to be performed live. Even Timothée Chalamet, who portrays Dylan, recognized the importance of this.
Chalamet expressed, “It was crucial for me to sing and play it on set because it was in the spirit of the movie to do it live.” To achieve this, Chalamet had to embody Dylan as a performer, from his vocals and stage presence to his guitar playing and harmonica skills.
“He [Chalamet] learns the entire thing, from harmonica and guitar to vocals. It’s quite special,” mentioned music supervisor Steven Gizicki.
Directed by James Mangold, A Complete Unknown follows a 19-year-old Dylan’s journey from Minnesota to New York City in the early 1960s. Dylan gained recognition in the West Village as a talented singer and songwriter, becoming a key figure in the folk movement.
“His brilliance lies in how his songs and personality eventually elevate him to a status bigger than the movement he was part of,” stated Mangold.
Chalamet admires Dylan’s refusal to conform as an artist, citing Dylan’s daring decision to transition from acoustic to electric instruments at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival as a pivotal moment in music history.
“Many iconic artists in American pop culture who dared to defy expectations credit Bob with paving the way,” Chalamet affirmed.
In addition to Chalamet, A Complete Unknown features Edward Norton, Elle Fanning, Monica Barbaro, Boyd Holbrook, Norbert Leo Butz, Dan Fogler, and Scoot McNairy.
A Complete Unknown is set to premiere in theaters on December 25, 2024.
