Bob Dylan Shares His Thoughts on Timothée Chalamet Portraying Him

Bob Dylan is currently in the spotlight—though it’s Timothée Chalamet portraying him that is generating the buzz. As the theatrical release of A Complete Unknown approaches this Christmas, interest in the iconic folk musician is soaring, and Dylan himself has shared his thoughts.

As a devoted Bob Dylan enthusiast, I’ve had a poster of the legendary singer-songwriter gracing my wall since my college days. It was one of the first items I purchased for my freshman dorm room, making my anticipation for A Complete Unknown even more profound. My love for films that delve into the lives of songwriters—like Inside Llewyn Davis—only amplifies my excitement for this upcoming project.

Current Buzz Surrounding A Complete Unknown

Recently, the fervor surrounding A Complete Unknown has reached new heights. At the Gotham Awards, the cast made their appearance, with Oscar Isaac, who stars alongside Chalamet in Dune and embodied Llewyn Davis in the Coen Brothers’ film, expressing his enthusiasm. According to Deadline, Isaac described Dylan as “the Holy of Holies,” highlighting the weight of the musician’s legacy.

Dylan himself has weighed in on the film, recommending that audiences read Dylan Goes Electric, a book by Elijah Wald that serves as a foundation for the narrative. He expressed high regard for Chalamet’s performance in director James Mangold’s film.

In a post on X, Dylan shared, “There’s a movie about me opening soon called A Complete Unknown (what a title!). Timothée Chalamet is starring in the lead role. Timmy’s a brilliant actor, so I’m sure he’ll be completely believable as me… The film’s taken from Elijah Wald’s Dylan Goes Electric, a fantastic retelling of events from the early ‘60s that led up to the fiasco at Newport. After you’ve seen the movie, read the book.”

Chalamet expressed his gratitude in response to Dylan’s enthusiastic endorsement.

Floored. I am so grateful. Thank you Bob https://t.co/u9tuAE1vpf

— Timothée Chalamet (@RealChalamet) December 5, 2024

A Deeply Personal Connection to Dylan’s Story

My admiration for Inside Llewyn Davis stems from the poignant melancholy that resonates in folk music, which has always drawn me to Dylan. The prospect of a film that encapsulates the early stages of Dylan’s illustrious career is incredibly fascinating to me.

I have no doubt that the film will feature my favorite Dylan songs and iconic album covers, creating an experience I will truly cherish. With Dylan’s enthusiastic endorsement and the buzz surrounding the film, my excitement to see the collaboration between Mangold and Chalamet is at an all-time high.

Dylan remains a compelling figure whose life has inspired various cinematic portrayals, from I’m Not There to the musical Girl From the North Country. However, what distinguishes A Complete Unknown is its straightforward depiction of Dylan’s origin story. I eagerly look forward to immersing myself in the narrative of a musician whose impact on me is immeasurable.

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