A fresh take on Bob Dylan: ‘A Complete Unknown’ trailer reveals Timothée Chalamet’s transformation

A new chapter in biographical cinema

Come gather ’round, movie enthusiasts, wherever you roam. The much-anticipated trailer for James Mangold’s “A Complete Unknown” has finally arrived, offering the first official glimpse of Timothée Chalamet as the iconic Bob Dylan. Set to hit theaters this December, this biographical drama promises to delve into the formative years of the folk music legend in New York City, culminating in his groundbreaking 1965 Newport Folk Festival performance where he famously went electric.

Watch the trailer for “A Complete Unknown”

Walking through Dylan’s New York

In the trailer, Chalamet is seen wandering the streets of Manhattan, passing by some of Dylan’s favorite haunts like Cafe Wha? and Hotel Chelsea. The actor also delivers a stirring rendition of Dylan’s 1963 protest anthem, “A Hard Rain’s a-Gonna Fall.” The narrative hints at a love triangle involving Dylan, Joan Baez (played by Monica Barbaro), and Sylvie Russo (portrayed by Elle Fanning), a character seemingly inspired by Dylan’s then-girlfriend Suze Rotolo, who famously appeared on the cover of “The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan.”

A star-studded ensemble

The film boasts an impressive cast, including Edward Norton as Pete Seeger, Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash, P.J. Byrne as Harold Leventhal, Scoot McNairy as Woody Guthrie, Dan Fogler as Albert Grossman, and Will Harrison as Bob Neuwirth. This ensemble promises to bring to life the vibrant and tumultuous folk music scene of the 1960s.

A story inspired by ‘Dylan Goes Electric’

Based on Elijah Wald’s 2015 book “Dylan Goes Electric,” the film was initially titled “Going Electric.” The new title, “A Complete Unknown,” is a nod to a line from Dylan’s revolutionary song “Like a Rolling Stone,” which marked a significant shift in his musical journey. Mangold describes Dylan in the film as “a wanderer who comes in from Minnesota with a fresh name and a fresh outlook on life,” sparking an upheaval in the folk community’s perception of what constituted “proper” folk music.

Behind the scenes

The real-life Bob Dylan, now 83, was actively involved in the film’s development, providing notes on the script and meeting with Mangold multiple times. Production began in March in New York and New Jersey, with paparazzi photos of Chalamet in character quickly going viral on social media.

A collaborative effort

Produced by Searchlight Pictures, “A Complete Unknown” is a collaborative effort involving Michael Bederman, Fred Berger, Bob Bookman, Chalamet, Alan Gasmer, Alex Heineman, Peter Jaysen, Brian Kavanaugh-Jones, Mangold, Andrew Rona, and Jeff Rosen. This collective of producers brings a wealth of experience and passion to the project, ensuring a film that is both authentic and compelling.

Reflecting on Dylan’s legacy

For cinema and TV series enthusiasts, “A Complete Unknown” offers more than just a biographical account; it provides a deep dive into the cultural and musical revolution of the 1960s. Dylan’s decision to go electric was a pivotal moment that challenged the status quo and redefined the boundaries of folk music. This film not only captures that historical moment but also explores the personal and artistic struggles that accompanied it.

A personal reflection

As a fan of both cinema and music, the prospect of seeing Chalamet embody Dylan is thrilling. His previous performances have shown a remarkable ability to capture the essence of complex characters, and his portrayal of Dylan is likely to be no exception. The film’s exploration of Dylan’s early years, his relationships, and his impact on the music world promises to be a rich and immersive experience.

Looking forward

With its release just around the corner, “A Complete Unknown” is set to be a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of music and film. The trailer has already generated significant buzz, and the film itself is poised to offer a fresh and insightful look at one of the most influential musicians of our time.

Watch the trailer for “A Complete Unknown”

“A Complete Unknown” is more than just a film; it’s a journey into the heart of a musical revolution, a tribute to the enduring legacy of Bob Dylan, and a testament to the power of storytelling in cinema.