Timothée Chalamet steps into the shoes of Bob Dylan in A Complete Unknown, and Searchlight Pictures has just released a promotional video showcasing his transformation. In this clip, Chalamet recreates Dylan’s legendary “Subterranean Homesick Blues” video, a piece known for its simple yet influential visual style. Not only does Chalamet capture Dylan’s mannerisms, but he also delivers his own vocal take on the iconic song, adding a modern but authentic twist to a 1960s classic.
Directed by James Mangold, A Complete Unknown aims to offer an intimate look at Dylan’s life, from his rise in the 1960s folk scene to his impact on the broader cultural and musical landscape. Chalamet, who has spent considerable time preparing for this role, brings fresh life to one of the most enigmatic figures in American music. The new video, with its understated black-and-white aesthetic, is a respectful nod to Dylan’s original “Subterranean Homesick Blues” promo, which featured him holding up cue cards with the song’s lyrics in a stripped-down alleyway. In the 1965 version, Dylan’s use of cue cards became a widely celebrated visual, often cited as an early form of the modern music video.
Chalamet’s choice to perform the song himself has garnered attention and added a layer of authenticity to his portrayal. By taking on the vocal aspect of Dylan’s character, Chalamet has positioned himself to bring a deeper dimension to the performance, connecting his portrayal to the raw energy Dylan was known for in his early career. This musical involvement also aligns with Columbia Records’ upcoming release of the film’s soundtrack, which includes Chalamet’s cover of “Subterranean Homesick Blues.” This approach of involving the lead actor in the soundtrack adds cohesion to the film, making the music an extension of Chalamet’s portrayal rather than a separate component.
Scheduled for release on December 25, A Complete Unknown will debut in theaters, giving audiences the chance to experience the film’s in-depth exploration of Dylan’s career, particularly in the 1960s. This period was critical for Dylan, as it marked his transition from folk icon to electric rock pioneer, a move that sparked both acclaim and controversy among fans and critics. The film is set to navigate these pivotal moments, illustrating how Dylan’s influence stretched beyond music to impact cultural and political conversations of the era.
For longtime fans and newer audiences alike, the project offers an opportunity to revisit Dylan’s influential 1965 album Bringing It All Back Home, which features “Subterranean Homesick Blues.” Ranking at No. 38 on Pitchfork’s “The 200 Best Albums of the 1960s,” the album is remembered for its inventive blend of folk and rock and remains a milestone in Dylan’s career. The album’s mix of social commentary, poetic lyrics, and musical experimentation set the stage for his later work, shaping his legacy as one of the most significant musicians of his generation.
As the film’s release approaches, excitement is building for how Chalamet’s performance and the film’s direction will capture Dylan’s complexity and the shifting musical landscape he influenced. For Chalamet, this role marks a new chapter in his career, allowing him to bring his acting skills and vocal talents together to honor Dylan’s spirit and artistry. The reimagined “Subterranean Homesick Blues” video, now featuring Chalamet, sets the stage for the full feature, which will soon offer a closer look at Dylan’s transformation from folk singer to cultural icon.