In the city of New York, actor Timothée Chalamet has been diligently preparing for his role in the film “A Complete Unknown,” centered around the legendary musician Bob Dylan. Over the course of six years, Chalamet has delved deep into the world of Dylan, visiting his childhood home, mastering guitar and harmonica skills, and immersing himself in the 1960s New York atmosphere that influenced Dylan’s music. Despite the changes that time has brought, Chalamet humorously notes the evolution of places like Cafe Wha? from hosting Bob Dylan to now featuring covers by bands like Aerosmith.
Chalamet’s dedication to embodying Dylan has been evident on and off the screen, with him even performing Dylan songs while in character for other roles like Willy Wonka and on the set of “Dune.” Initially met with skepticism, particularly from his “Dune” co-star Oscar Isaac, Chalamet’s portrayal of Dylan in the upcoming film has garnered widespread acclaim, earning him a Golden Globe nomination and potentially making him the youngest best actor Oscar winner ever.
Even the real Bob Dylan, who provided input on the film, has expressed confidence in Chalamet’s ability to capture his essence on screen. The movie draws inspiration from Elijah Wald’s book “Dylan Goes Electric! Newport, Seeger, Dylan, and the Night That Split the Sixties,” focusing on Dylan’s transition from folk icon to controversial figure during the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. Chalamet recently discussed his approach to portraying such a complex character in an interview with The Associated Press.
Reflecting on the magnitude of playing Bob Dylan, Chalamet emphasized the importance of fully immersing oneself in the artist’s multifaceted legacy and cultural impact. With years of preparation and a deep appreciation for Dylan’s music and persona, Chalamet embarked on this challenging endeavor fully aware of the responsibility it entailed. He shared insights on his journey, from studying Dylan’s press conferences to discovering the profound connection between the musician’s work and personal experiences.
Songs like “Blowing in the Wind” and “Time’s They Are a-Changin’” are deeply ingrained in American culture. I was familiar with them, so when I hopped on YouTube to listen to some songs, a press conference from San Francisco in ’65 caught my eye. It was captivating to witness an artist who not only defined the ’60s but also exuded profound intellect alongside his entertaining persona. Individuals who possess a deep understanding of the world and are talented at expressing themselves through art are truly rare. Artists like Bob Dylan and, in today’s culture, Frank Ocean, deserve our support and admiration. Often, those with a sensitive and thoughtful nature may shy away from putting themselves out there, but I believe it is crucial to champion them.
Regarding documentaries, D.A. Pennebaker’s “Don’t Look Back” had a significant impact on me. I found it to be a compelling and raw portrayal of Bob Dylan at that time. There is a certain magic in capturing music artists in those vulnerable moments, much like “The Carter” documentary featuring Lil’ Wayne. These films offer a glimpse into the artists’ journey of self-discovery and transformation.
“Don’t Look Back” particularly resonated with me due to its unfiltered nature and lack of traditional commentary. Suze Rotolo’s book also provided valuable insights into her relationship with Bob Dylan, offering a unique perspective on the revered artist. As an actor, it is essential not just to idolize such figures but to understand and interpret their complexities for a broader audience.
My journey with the guitar began during the filming of “Call Me By Your Name” when I learned to play a few chords for a scene. In 2018, I started taking lessons from a talented teacher, Larry Saltzman, who eventually became a creative collaborator during the challenging times of COVID-19. We connected through music and spent hours honing our craft together, exploring songs that never made it into the movie.
I gravitated towards a variety of songs, from intimate pieces like “Girl From the North Country” to the more rugged tunes such as “North Country Blues.” Bob Dylan’s music resonated with me on a deeper level, evoking imagery of Minnesota’s rugged landscapes and industrial towns. The stark beauty of these settings, reminiscent of the edge of the world, captured my imagination as a New Yorker.
The theme of fame and the rejection of societal expectations depicted in the movie mirrored Dylan’s own experiences, and I found a personal connection to that narrative. It’s a feeling that is difficult to put into words but resonates with me on a profound level. Portraying a character who defies conventions and forges his path was both challenging and empowering.
Timothée Chalamet recently shared insights into his deep admiration for Bob Dylan and the transformative journey he underwent while preparing for his role in a film centered around the iconic musician. Chalamet delved into the significance of Dylan’s words and music, reflecting on the impact they have had on him personally.
During a conversation with The Associated Press, Chalamet touched upon Dylan’s notable speech in 1963, where he challenged the notion that the world belonged solely to the older generation. The actor discussed how Dylan’s words resonated with him, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the contributions and perspectives of the younger generation.
Chalamet expressed a desire to meet Dylan one day, not just to express gratitude for the opportunity to portray him on screen, but to thank him for his enduring legacy in the world of music and art. The actor’s admiration for Dylan extended beyond his work, leading him to retrace the musician’s footsteps through various locations in the Midwest.
Immersing himself in places like Duluth, Hibbing, and Chicago, Chalamet sought to connect with the energy and history of these areas, gaining a deeper understanding of Dylan’s upbringing and influences. This journey allowed him to confront his own background growing up in New York City, juxtaposing it with the rugged landscapes that shaped Dylan’s early years.
The experience of exploring Dylan’s roots and the changing landscapes of the Midwest left a profound impact on Chalamet. He reflected on the evolving nature of the world and the timeless relevance of Dylan’s artistry, acknowledging the unique challenges and inspirations that artists from different backgrounds face in their creative pursuits.
Chalamet mused on the hero’s journey embodied by figures like Dylan and fellow Midwestern artist Kid Cudi, recognizing the resilience and creativity required to forge a path in the world of entertainment. The actor’s exploration of Dylan’s legacy and the process of embodying a real-life figure on screen brought new dimensions to his artistic journey, prompting introspection and growth.
As Chalamet shared his experiences and reflections, he highlighted the profound impact of immersing oneself in the history and spirit of legendary artists like Bob Dylan. Through his storytelling and introspection, the actor underscored the enduring influence of cultural icons and the transformative power of artistic expression.
In recounting his journey into Dylan’s world, Chalamet offered a glimpse into the profound connections between art, history, and personal growth. His words echoed the timeless message of Bob Dylan’s music: to embrace change, confront challenges, and find meaning in the ever-shifting landscape of creativity and self-discovery.
