Film: A Complete Unknown [2024] – Timothée Chalamet, Edward Norton

A Complete Unknown is very well-made, but it never goes all the way to explore its subjects, and the politics of the era, and so it remains a shallow character study.

Starring Timothée Chalamet, Edward Norton & Elle Fanning, and directed by James Mangold, the man behind Logan as well as Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny, A Complete Unkown is a sturdy movie for adults around the rise of Bob Dylan.

It’s one of the most interesting biopic movies about musicians, yet it’s very frustrating to watch. Something that happens very often with biopics when the subject in question is still alive.

Mangold opts for the simple option, which is a linear narrative that leaves little room for surprise. The music is terrific, Chalamet is fantastic but there is no insight into Bob Dylan. I started the movie knowing nothing about Bob Dylan and finished the movie feeling like I had just read his Wikipedia page, while being interrupted by some musical performances.

Why did he hate being idolized? What happened with Baez?

Without Chalamet, A Complete Unknown wouldn’t have had much spark. Watching him bring Dylan to life and actually sing like him? That’s what makes it stand out.

Although A Complete Unknown is sometimes as frustratingly opaque as Dylan about his motivations or politics, the film vividly captures his musical evolution. Unfortunately, while the film has elements to explore far beyond the obvious,…it only accomplishes what is necessary, presenting Dylan’s music to the new generation.

Should you watch it?

This is one of the best biopics for musicians. It encapsulates a lot of what was going on behind the scenes with Bob Dylan, without getting muddy. Chalamet delivers a memorable performance here.

Where can I watch it?

You can stream A Complete Unknown on Disney Plus.