Timothee Chalamet Talks About Preparing For Bob Dylan Role

Timothee Chalamet is all set to bring the legendary Bob Dylan to life in A Complete Unknown, hitting theaters on Dec. 25. This highly anticipated biopic focuses on Dylan’s shift to electric guitar in 1965, a move that shook the folk world. Based on the book Dylan Goes Electric! and with input from Dylan himself, the film captures the era’s cultural revolution.

Learning the Dylan Sound

Chalamet spent years prepping for the role, mastering Dylan’s unique sound. “For the movie, I had to learn 13 [songs], let’s say… but in total, I could probably play 30,” he told Apple Music 1. To nail Dylan’s signature voice and harmonica skills, he worked extensively with dialect coach Tim Monich and harmonica coach Polly Bennett. “For years,” he said, “I worked with a woman named Polly Bennett, who’s a movement coach… we got more out of just working on the script together than anything physicality related.” He didn’t just want to mimic Dylan—he wanted to understand him.

Retracing Dylan’s Journey

To get into character, Chalamet retraced Dylan’s early steps, visiting key places in the musician’s life. “For my own spirit-gathering… I retraced Bob’s steps through Chicago and Madison, Wisconsin… I started in Hibbing, in Duluth,” he shared. Spending time where Dylan grew up helped Chalamet capture the roots of the artist’s journey, adding depth to his performance.

Finding A Personal Connection

Chalamet admits he felt the pressure of playing such an iconic figure but also found personal meaning in the role. “It was the most unique challenge I’ve taken on,” he said, adding that performing the music live helped boost his confidence. Interestingly, Chalamet felt a “weird” connection to Dylan’s desire for fame, explaining:

“Bob wanted to be a rock ’n’ roll star… Equally, I wanted to be a big movie actor.”

As he wrapped up his preparation, Chalamet reflected:

“I’m now deep in the church of Bob, and I feel like I get this opportunity to kinda be a bridge to this music.”