
A Complete Unknown: A Hallmark Love Letter, Postmarked for Superfans
A Complete Unknown (2024)
Directed by James Mangold
Starring Timothée Chalamet, Edward Norton, Elle Fanning, Monica Barbaro
James Mangold is a master craftsman—no argument there. His last two films earned glowing reviews from yours truly (Ford v Ferrari and, yes, even Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny). So, when Mangold announced A Complete Unknown, a Bob Dylan biopic, expectations were naturally high. After all, he’s the guy who gave us Walk the Line (2005), the modern blueprint for music biopics. With multiple Oscar nominations and critical acclaim, Mangold’s take on Johnny Cash set a bar that subsequent films like Bohemian Rhapsody (2018), Respect (2021), and Elvis (2022) have either emulated or stumbled trying to reach.
But here’s the question: Could Dylan—a notoriously enigmatic and aloof figure—fit into this well-trodden biopic template? Sure, it’s worked for larger-than-life icons like Cash, Freddie Mercury, Aretha Franklin, and Elvis Presley. But would Dylan’s countercultural mystique and contrarian nature translate into a gripping narrative?
Casting: The Linchpin of Modern Biopics
Mangold’s Walk the Line proved that casting can make or break a music biopic. Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny Cash wasn’t just perfect; it elevated Phoenix’s career into “best living actor?” discussions. Similarly, Timothée Chalamet, coming off leading roles in Dune (2021, 2023), Bones and All (2022), and the box-office smash Wonka (2023), seems poised to claim that same level of acclaim. As Dylan, Chalamet nails every scene with authenticity and gravitas. Unfortunately, even Chalamet’s brilliance couldn’t save A Complete Unknown from itself.
A Bloated, Indulgent Bore
At 141 minutes, the film feels twice as long. Mangold can’t seem to decide what story he wants to tell. Is it about the manufactured authenticity of folk stardom? The fragility of relationships under fame’s pressure? The gatekeeping of cultural revolutions? All of the above?
This lack of focus weighs the film down. While Mangold recreates Dylan’s seminal moments with stunning period detail—thanks to top-notch cinematography, costumes, and set design—the narrative meanders, refusing to anchor itself in anything truly compelling. By the midpoint, I found myself clock-watching, a cardinal sin for any film, let alone one about a cultural icon.
The Supporting Cast: Bright Spots in a Dim Film
The supporting cast is excellent. Edward Norton as Pete Seeger stands out as the corny, old-guard alternative to Dylan’s rebellious spark. Elle Fanning and Monica Barbaro both hold their own, balancing their roles as Dylan’s love interests and foils. But the real scene-stealer is Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash. His charismatic turn adds a much-needed jolt of energy, cementing him as an underrated gem in Hollywood (seriously, check out The Cursed).
Yet even this stellar ensemble can’t elevate the bloated script. Unless you’re a die-hard Dylan fan, this is a slog—albeit a beautifully shot one.
For Dylan Fans, By Dylan Fans
This film feels like a love letter from a Dylan superfan to other superfans. And that’s fine—for them. But for the rest of us, it’s an overly indulgent exercise in hero worship. Moments like shoehorning the Cuban Missile Crisis as a backdrop for infidelity or ending with Dylan “going electric” feel hollow and predictable.
Dylan’s mystique is what makes him fascinating, but this film does little to demystify him. It’s less a celebration of his art and more a dry homage to his supposed cultural significance. Mangold’s craftsmanship is evident, but even the best craft can’t save a story that doesn’t connect.
Final Thoughts
Mangold’s A Complete Unknown isn’t a bad film—it’s just not an engaging one. For a music biopic to work, it needs more than a highlight reel of pivotal moments; it needs a soul. Dylan’s art may have soul, but this film? Not so much.
If you’re a Dylan superfan, you’ll likely enjoy the meticulous recreations and insider nods. But if you’re looking for a deeper understanding of the man behind the myth—or even just an entertaining two hours—this one is a miss.