James Mangold’s journey to directing “A Complete Unknown,” a biopic about Bob Dylan’s transformative early years, began with a serendipitous encounter facilitated by the unexpected disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dylan’s representatives initially expressed reservations about the project delving too deeply into the artist’s personal life, preferring a focus on the music industry’s machinations. However, the pandemic-induced cancellation of Dylan’s tour provided him the opportunity to read Mangold’s script, leading to a series of personal meetings with the director. These conversations allowed Mangold to gain invaluable insight into Dylan’s perspective and experiences, shaping the narrative of the film and dispelling any preconceived notions Mangold had about the enigmatic musician. The film, starring Timothée Chalamet as Dylan, follows the artist’s trajectory from his arrival in Greenwich Village in 1961 to his controversial electric performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival.
Mangold’s approach to understanding Dylan was driven by a genuine curiosity about the artist’s experiences rather than a pre-determined narrative. He sought to capture the human emotions driving Dylan’s decisions, emphasizing the raw, primal feelings beneath the culturally significant moments. Dylan, surprisingly open and grounded, engaged with Mangold, discussing his fondness for Mangold’s previous films like “Cop Land” and “Walk the Line.” This established a rapport that allowed for deeper conversations about Dylan’s early career, offering Mangold a glimpse into the loneliness of being a solo folk artist and the pressures that came with his rapid rise to fame. Dylan’s passion for cinema, evident in his detailed recollection of films, facilitated a connection with Mangold and highlighted the interwoven nature of music and film. This mutual respect for artistry laid the foundation for a collaborative exploration of Dylan’s past.
Mangold’s conversations with Dylan revealed the artist’s struggle to fully comprehend the impact of his actions during his formative years. Dylan, like anyone reflecting on their youth, found it challenging to fully recapture the motivations and emotions behind his decisions. The film, therefore, avoids portraying these events as conscious turning points in cultural history but rather as personal choices driven by human impulses. The infamous Newport incident, for example, is presented as a family-like implosion, a consequence of pent-up frustrations and a desire to break free from expectations, rather than a calculated act of rebellion. This humanized portrayal of Dylan allows audiences to connect with the emotional core of his journey.
Central to Dylan’s story is the unexpected nature of his fame. He never aspired to stardom, seeking only to create and perform music, emulating his idols like Buddy Holly and Little Richard. He embraced the role of a folk icon, excelling in it while simultaneously yearning for the camaraderie of a band, a desire that fueled his eventual transition to electric music. This shift wasn’t driven by a deliberate intention to disrupt the cultural landscape but rather by a personal longing for musical collaboration and a different creative expression. This theme of unexpected fame and the accompanying loneliness is a recurring motif in the film, showcasing Dylan’s internal conflict between embracing the adoration and craving deeper connection.
The film also features Johnny Cash, a figure who represented the band dynamic Dylan craved. Despite having directed “Walk the Line,” a biopic about Cash, Mangold felt Cash’s presence was crucial to “A Complete Unknown.” Cash, played by Boyd Holbrook, embodies the sense of camaraderie and collaborative spirit Dylan sought. A pivotal scene depicts Cash and his band taking the stage at Newport, observed by a yearning Dylan. This portrayal underscores Dylan’s profound desire for the shared experience of making music within a group, highlighting the contrast between his solo career and the communal energy of a band.
Timothée Chalamet’s casting as Dylan proved essential to the film’s success. Mangold describes Chalamet as the perfect embodiment of Dylan, capturing not only his physical likeness but also his spirit. Chalamet’s dedication to the role is evident in his mastery of the guitar and his live performances, bringing an authenticity to the portrayal. However, Mangold emphasizes the importance of Chalamet bringing a piece of himself to the role, avoiding a mere impersonation and instead embodying the emotional core of Dylan’s experiences. This nuanced performance allows the audience to connect with Dylan as a complex individual grappling with fame, loneliness, and artistic evolution. The combination of Chalamet’s inherent talent and his meticulous preparation creates a captivating portrayal of a young Bob Dylan at a pivotal moment in his musical journey.
