Early reactions to Timothée Chalamet's performance in the biographical film "A Complete Unknown" are starting to mix on social media. Touted as a Bob Dylan biopic, the film is already garnering praise before its Christmas Day debut, particularly for the performances of Chalamet and other cast members like Monica Barbaro.
In his review, Clayton Davis, Variety's senior awards editor, applauded Chalamet's genuine and determined portrayal of Bob Dylan, making a special mention to Monica Barbaro and Elle Fanning's performances that guide the viewer through the enigmatic narrative of the man. The film's set design, wardrobe, and James Mangold's confident direction also received considerable acclaim.
Scott Menzel, a film critic, lavished praise on Chalamet's acting, calling it the "performance of the year" and even going so far as to laud Chalamet's voice, look, and the subtle cues he added to his persona, which brought his depiction of Dylan to life. Monica Barbaro's depiction of Joan Baez and Edward Norton's performance as Pete Seeger were also praised.
Though most initial reactions to "A Complete Unknown" have been mainly positive, the film has also seen some critical opinions. Ryan Swen, a film critic from Los Angeles, found the movie sometimes confusing or inaccurate. Meanwhile, Gregory Ellwood from The Playlist described the film as "superb" and "deeply moving."
James Mangold's "A Complete Unknown" chronicles the formative years of a young Dylan as he comes to prominence in New York's Greenwich Village folk scene during the 1960s. The biographical film concludes with Dylan's electrifying performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival.
“A Complete Unknown,” penned by Mangold and Jay Cocks, is anchored in Elijah Wald’s 2015 book “Dylan Goes Electric!” An impressive lineup of talent accompanies Chalamet, Barbaro, and Norton, including Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash and Elle Fanning in a yet-to-be-revealed role.
Initial reactions to the film also make note of the technical excellence exhibited, from the use of sound and editing to specific features such as costume design and make-up. However, the cumulative consensus highlights Chalamet's outstanding portrayal of Dylan and the noteworthy supporting performances of cast members in their respective roles.
