Timothée Chalamet, the talented actor known for his diverse roles, has dedicated five years to transforming into the legendary folk singer Bob Dylan for the upcoming film A Complete Unknown. This journey required him to learn multiple instruments, including the guitar and harmonica, alongside honing his singing skills.
Chalamet, 28, shared that this experience was deeply personal to him. He described it as "magical" and preferred to keep many aspects of his transformation to himself, emphasizing that it was a special moment in his life. He admitted that portraying Dylan, particularly during the vibrant era of the 1960s in New York, was incredibly fulfilling.
Set against the backdrop of early 1960s New York, A Complete Unknown tells the story of a 19-year-old Dylan, who rises from his humble beginnings in Minnesota to become one of the most iconic singer/songwriters in history. Chalamet, who confessed to knowing little about Dylan before taking on the role, immersed himself in preparing for the character. He utilized the extended production time caused by COVID-19 and other industry delays to refine his musical abilities and worked closely with a voice coach to perfect Dylan’s unique vocal style and presence.
The film’s hair and makeup team focused on showcasing three distinct looks of Dylan, reflecting his evolution from a newcomer in New York to a celebrated artist known for his big hair and signature sunglasses. Chalamet embraced authenticity with over 60 costume changes and subtle prosthetics to illustrate the passage of time in Dylan’s life, including details like inconsistent grooming and the weariness of a rising star.
Fellow actor Edward Norton, who plays folk legend Pete Seeger, praised Chalamet for his commitment to the role. He was impressed by Chalamet’s intense focus and depth of character immersion. Norton highlighted Chalamet’s decision to avoid behind-the-scenes content, stressing the importance of maintaining the mystique surrounding his transformation.
Bob Dylan, now 83, expressed his support for Chalamet’s portrayal of him, describing the young actor as "brilliant." He assured fans that Chalamet would convincingly embody his younger self. Although Chalamet has not communicated directly with Dylan, he expressed gratitude for the legendary singer’s kind words, calling it a dream come true.
A Complete Unknown is set to hit theaters on Christmas Day, promising a captivating glimpse into the life of one of music’s greatest icons.
