‘A Complete Unknown’ the most recent biopic to hit the screen, offers a fresh perspective on the genre by focusing on the complexities of identity and personal transformation, led by the impressive Timothée Chalamet. Directed by James Mangold (Ford vs Ferrari, Logan) ‘A Complete Unknown’ landed in UK cinemas on 15th January 2025.

1. The Guardian: Praises the remarkable performance from Timothée Chalamet as he inhabits the physicality of a young Bob Dylan. It acknowledges the film’s exploration of identity and self-discovery, though it suggests that the plot might be predictable at times. The Guardian finds the film engaging but notes that it might not be ground-breaking.
2. Empire: Empire takes a slightly more positive stance, highlighting the film’s strong character-driven narrative and the emotional complexity of its central themes. While recognising that the plot may feel familiar, it credits the film for its subtle performances and its ability to engage viewers emotionally. Empire applauds Chalamet’s musical talent calling it ‘unimpeachable’ . Overall it describes ‘A Complete Unknown’ as a solid, though not exceptional, film that succeeds in its character study.
3. The Independent: The Independent offers a more mixed review, commending the film’s exploration of the themes of reinvention and the fluidity of identity. However, it criticises the pacing and certain narrative choices, which it believes detract from the overall impact. The review appreciates the performances but ultimately finds the film lacking in originality, suggesting it doesn’t quite live up to its potential.
4. Time Out: Time Out provides a more critical perspective, suggesting that while the film has an intriguing premise, it struggles to maintain momentum throughout. The review highlights some strong performances but feels the storytelling falls short, with the pacing and character development feeling uneven. At length, Time Out concludes that the film doesn’t quite deliver on the promise of its concept.

Overall, the reviews are a mix of praise for the performances especially that of Chalamet and the exploration of identity, but they also note shortcomings in the pacing, narrative predictability, and lack of originality.

Ever since ‘Walk the Line’ made its debut in 2005, it has set an exceptionally high standard that virtually every subsequent biopic is measured against. As a result, for any lesser-known or more understated biopics, such as ‘A Complete Unknown‘, it’s an uphill battle to stand out.

For us at Lucky Break News, we couldn’t agree more with the reviews. The film is marked by an outstanding performance by Chalamet as he completely transforms himself into Dylan, and it’s certainly not surprising he has been nominated for so many awards. However, whilst there are some strong moments of pathos as the audience feels for Sylvie Russo (Elle Fanning) as she is pushed aside by Dylan during his stratospheric rise to fame; ultimately with the film’s climax exploring the final night of the Newport Music Festival, it falls short of anything dramatic or punchy.

Definitely not one to miss for the performances alone, and for the Dylan fans out there, you’ll be singing his songs for the next few days for sure. (Or at least we were!)

The Guardian – 4 out of 5 Stars

Empire – 3 out of 5 Stars

The Independent – 3 out of 5 Stars

Timeout – 3 out of 5 Stars

‘A Complete Unknown’ is in cinemas now.