Timothée Chalamet's Golden Globe Journey: From 'Call Me by Your Name' to 'A Complete Unknown'

Timothée Chalamet, the 28-year-old actor known for his captivating performances, recently added another chapter to his awards season story. His fourth Golden Globe nomination for his role as Bob Dylan in the biographical drama “A Complete Unknown” has sparked renewed interest in his career trajectory. His previous nominations for “Call Me by Your Name,” “Beautiful Boy,” and “Wonka” did not result in wins, prompting Chalamet to share a humorous anecdote about his post-loss ritual.

The Hilarious Reality of Unused Acceptance Speeches

In a SiriusXM interview, Chalamet revealed the uniquely hilarious experience of getting home after losing an award and tearing up the acceptance speech he'd prepared. He quipped, “There’s nothing more uniquely hilarious and something you cannot share with anyone when you get home and you tear up the little thing that you never had to use and you think to yourself, ‘You narcissistic arrogant prick. On what planet did you think you were gonna use this?’” This candid confession offers a glimpse into the often-overlooked emotional side of award ceremonies. He is nominated alongside acting heavyweights such as Adrien Brody, Daniel Craig, Colman Domingo, Ralph Fiennes, and Sebastian Stan.

A Complete Unknown: Oscar Buzz and Dylan's Legacy

Chalamet's performance as Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown” has garnered significant critical acclaim and Oscar buzz. Variety chief film critic Owen Gleiberman described Chalamet's portrayal as “transfixing,” highlighting his ability to capture Dylan’s “prickly charisma” and “spiritual harshness.” The film, which opens in theaters on December 25, follows Dylan's early career in 1960s Greenwich Village, charting his rise to fame and the challenges he faced in navigating the music industry. The film includes appearances by fellow actors such as Edward Norton who plays Pete Seeger, Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez, and Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo. This year’s Golden Globe nomination marks his fourth, a testament to his consistent talent and dedication to his craft. The film also stars Boyd Holbrook as Johnny Cash and Will Harrison as Bob Neuwirth.

Chalamet's Dedication to the Role: More Than Just Acting

Chalamet's commitment to portraying Bob Dylan extended beyond the usual acting preparations. He spent years immersed in Dylan's music and life, learning to play the guitar and harmonica, and even visiting Dylan's childhood home. His dedication to the role is evident in the overwhelmingly positive reviews of his performance. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Chalamet discussed his intense preparation, saying, “It’s the furthest I’ve stretched myself. And it became so biblical to me in terms of this man’s life and his work that I felt if I let my focus err for a second, that I’d be self-loathing about it for years to come. I had three months to play Bob Dylan and the rest of my life I don’t get to be about that, so why not give it my all?” His words showcase the immense effort and dedication he poured into perfecting his portrayal. He spent a considerable amount of time studying Dylan’s press conferences, particularly the one in San Francisco in 1965 which he described as fascinating.

A Complete Unknown: A Biopic That Captures the Essence of Dylan

“A Complete Unknown” delves into the early years of Bob Dylan’s career, charting his move from Minnesota to New York City, his early successes and collaborations with other folk musicians in Greenwich Village, and the subsequent backlash after his move towards electric music. The film showcases not just the external triumphs but also Dylan's internal struggles, his anxieties, and his intense creative process. Director James Mangold aimed to portray Dylan not as an unfathomable enigma but as a complex individual with anxieties and strengths that he has revealed in the film through the medium of poetic monologues. Chalamet's performance aptly captures this complexity, bringing Dylan's life to life with authenticity and compassion.

Exploring Dylan's Jewish Identity

While the movie doesn't delve deeply into Dylan's Jewish background, it's notable that Chalamet, himself, is of Jewish heritage, leading to discussions about the significance of this casting choice and the potential implications for representation in film. While there is a brief mention of Bob Dylan’s birth name, Robert Zimmerman, other aspects of his Jewish background are not explored in the movie. In the film, Chalamet sings a total of 26 songs, and interestingly, he initially pre-recorded his vocals before opting to sing live during filming, demonstrating his commitment to authenticity. His collaboration with fellow actors, such as Edward Norton, further enriched the narrative and ensured that the film honored the spirit of Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger.

The Future for Chalamet and the Legacy of Bob Dylan

With the release of “A Complete Unknown,” Chalamet’s career continues to soar. His commitment to his craft is undeniable, and his performance as Bob Dylan is a testament to his range and talent. The success of this biopic may even impact how the public perceives Dylan, as it offers a fresh interpretation of the iconic singer-songwriter. The film cleverly balances artistic vision with historical accuracy, giving the audience insight into both Dylan's musical genius and his personal struggles. It’s a must-see for fans of Dylan and those intrigued by his enigmatic life. Chalamet’s performance is praised for its authenticity and his ability to capture Dylan’s complex personality. Even if the Golden Globe remains elusive this year, Chalamet's portrayal is already shaping up to be his most celebrated role yet, with an Oscar nomination a very real possibility.