The arrival of A Complete Unknown at screenings at the Cinematheque is a fantastic opportunity to dive into Bob Dylan's cinematic persona as it is reflected in documentaries, fictionalized explorations, and film roles. The program delves deep into the many layers of the musician’s persona, exploring his transformation from a folk prodigy to a cultural icon. Central to this exploration is Don’t Look Back (1967), D.A. Pennebaker’s documentary that chronicles Dylan’s 1965 tour of England, offering an intimate, raw glimpse into his enigmatic persona. I’m Not There (2007), directed by Todd Haynes, further blurs the line between fact and fiction, portraying Dylan’s evolution through multiple actors, each embodying a different aspect of his identity.
The tribute continues with The Last Waltz (1978), Martin Scorsese’s celebration of The Band’s farewell concert, where Dylan’s performance serves as a pivotal moment, highlighting his influence on American music. In Pat Garrett and Billy the Kid (1973), Dylan not only stars but also contributes to the soundtrack, blending his poetic sensibility with the Western genre.
The tribute also includes Inside Llewyn Davis (2013), where the Coen Brothers’ portrayal of a struggling folk musician evokes Dylan’s early Greenwich Village years. Finally, A Complete Unknown (2024), in which Timothée Chalamet delivers perhaps his best performance to date. Chalamet portrays a fictionalized version of Dylan during his transformative years, channeling the complexity and mystery that has defined the legendary musician's career. This portrayal fits seamlessly into a broader cinematic tribute to Dylan, alongside films like Don’t Look Back, I’m Not There, and The Last Waltz. With A Complete Unknown, Chalamet adds a new dimension to the ongoing exploration of Dylan’s enigmatic nature, demonstrating how his refusal to be defined has cemented his place as a timeless cultural icon.
