Like A Rolling Stone Through The Lens

In the 2024 biographical film A Complete Unknown, directed by James Mangold, the legendary life and music of Bob Dylan between the years 1961 and 1965 are brought to the screen with remarkable nuance and artistry. The film, starring Timothee Chalamet as the iconic Dylan, offers a deep dive into the transformative years of the singer-songwriter’s career, highlighting the significant influences and moments that shaped his path.

From the moment he steps into the role, Timothee Chalamet embodies Bob Dylan with an uncanny precision that feels almost otherworldly. His portrayal captures not only Dylan’s distinctive voice and mannerisms but also the enigmatic spirit that has always defined the musician. Chalamet’s performance is nothing short of mesmerising, a testament to his versatility and talent as an actor. He navigates the complexities of Dylan’s character with ease, delivering a deeply emotional and profoundly authentic performance.

One of the film’s most innovative narrative techniques is the introduction of key characters—Woody Guthrie, Pete Seeger, Joan Baez, and of course, Bob Dylan himself—through their music. This approach offers a unique way for the audience to connect with these legendary figures on a more intimate level. The seamless blending of their songs with their stories adds a layer of depth to the film, making it a truly immersive experience. Each musical number, like, Don’t Think Twice, It’s All right; Blowing in the Wind and Like a Rolling Stone serves as a window into the soul of the character of Dylan at different intersections of that time, allowing viewers to understand his motivations, struggles, and triumphs.

While Chalamet’s performance is undoubtedly the heart of the film, the supporting cast also delivers noteworthy performances. Edward Norton, in particular, stands out in his portrayal of a key figure in Dylan’s early career. Norton’s character, though secondary, adds significant weight to the narrative, providing a counterbalance to Dylan’s journey. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, with each actor bringing a unique touch to the story.

The film delves into the multifaceted personality of Bob Dylan, presenting him as both a musical genius and a deeply complex individual. Chalamet’s Dylan is seen grappling with the pressures of fame, the expectations of his audience, and his artistic integrity from his need to shift from his roots of folk to blues and rock. The film does not shy away from exploring the darker aspects of Dylan’s stoic character, offering a balanced portrayal that is both respectful and honest. Through Chalamet’s nuanced performance, Dylan’s internal conflicts and his relentless pursuit of artistic truth are poignantly brought to life.

James Mangold, who previously directed the acclaimed biopic of Johnny Cash in Walk the Line, brings his solid direction to A Complete Unknown. His expertise in crafting biographical films is evident in the way he captures the essence of Bob Dylan’s life and music. Mangold’s direction ensures that the film is not only a visual and auditory delight but also a deeply emotional and engaging experience.

Mangold is known for his ability to draw incredible performances from his actors, a skill that has become increasingly renowned throughout his career. He has an aptitude for steering actors to award-winning performances, as seen with Angelina Jolie in Girl, Interrupted, Christian Bale in Ford Vs. Ferrari and Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash in Walk the Line. Known for merging intimate, character-driven stories with technical innovations, Mangold, an actors’ director first and foremost, focuses on the people in front of the lens to bring out the best in their performances.

A Complete Unknown is a triumph of storytelling and performance. Timothee Chalamet’s portrayal of Bob Dylan is nothing short of revelatory, capturing the essence of the legendary musician with remarkable depth and authenticity. The film’s innovative use of music to introduce its characters adds a unique dimension to the narrative, making it a must-watch for fans of Dylan and cinema alike. With a strong supporting cast and a compelling storyline, A Complete Unknown stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bob Dylan, a poet and musician, and the power of music to tell a story.        

Nominated for 8 Academy Awards, 5 BAFTAS, and 4 Golden Globes, A Complete Unknown is now rolling in cinemas.

-Dirk Lombard Fourie