Pop Culture Happy Hour: "A Complete Unknown and What's Making Us Happy"

Release Date: December 27, 2024
Hosts: Linda Holmes, Glen Weldon, Stephen Thompson, and Aisha Harris
Guests: Bidatri D. Chaudhary (Philadelphia Inquirer's Arts and Entertainment Editor and Film Critic) and Chris Klimek (Writer)

Introduction

In this episode of Pop Culture Happy Hour, host Stephen Thompson delves into the recently released film "A Complete Unknown," a biopic that explores a pivotal moment in Bob Dylan's early career. The discussion is enriched by insights from Bidatri D. Chaudhary and writer Chris Klimek, who share their perspectives on the film's portrayal of Dylan, its adherence to biopic conventions, and its overall impact.

Exploring "A Complete Unknown"

Stephen Thompson begins by setting the stage for the conversation, describing "A Complete Unknown" as a non-traditional biopic that focuses on Bob Dylan's emergence in the New York City folk scene and his transformative performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. Timothée Chalamet stars as Dylan, delivering all of his own vocals, while Monica Barbaro portrays Joan Baez, and Edward Norton takes on the role of Pete Seeger.

Chris Klimek admits initial skepticism about the film's necessity, noting, "What cultural object of the 20th century has been more covered than Bob Dylan?" (05:11). However, after viewing the movie twice, Klimek praises it for subverting typical biopic tropes and maintaining a "very kinetic pace" that keeps the audience engaged (05:35).

Bidatri D. Chaudhary echoes Klimek's sentiments, highlighting the film's strong musical performances and Chalamet's compelling portrayal of Dylan. She remarks, "The music is great, so you don't feel the almost two and a half hour runtime" (06:12), appreciating the authenticity Chalamet brings to the role.

Performance Highlights

The conversation shifts to the standout performances within the film:

• Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez: Both guests commend Barbaro's portrayal, with Thompson emphasizing her role as a "big breakthrough performance" that serves as a crucial counterbalance to Dylan's character (08:23). Klimek adds, "That was just a jaw-dropping performance" (08:34), underscoring Barbaro's impact.

• Edward Norton as Pete Seeger: Norton's transformation into Seeger is lauded for capturing the essence of the folk legend. Chaudhary shares a memorable scene featuring Norton's character attempting to move his car, blending humor with character depth (09:14).

• Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan: Chalamet's nuanced performance is praised for avoiding mere imitation. Thompson asserts, "This is a depiction that doesn't feel like an impersonation" (14:05), appreciating Chalamet's ability to embody Dylan's complexity without resorting to caricature.

Biopic Analysis

Despite its strengths, the film isn't without its critiques:

• Biopic Clichés: Thompson acknowledges that while the film excels in many areas, it doesn't entirely escape the familiar biopic formula. He mentions, "There are certainly moments in this film where I rolled my eyes the way I would... see them in the Amy Winehouse movie or the Bob Marley movie" (10:27). Instances such as exaggerated emotional exchanges add to this sentiment.

• Fictionalization and Historical Accuracy: The guests discuss the film's creative liberties, noting that certain events, like the depiction of Pete Seeger and Albert Grossman "throwing hands at the soundboard at Newport," feel more dramatized than factual (11:01). This approach, while enhancing entertainment value, may detract from historical authenticity.

• Depth of Political Context: Chaudhary critiques the film for glossing over the political influences that shaped Dylan's music and persona. She expresses a desire for a more profound exploration of Dylan's political awakening and the significant roles played by figures like Joan Baez and Sylvie Russo (16:23). Thompson concurs, wishing for a stronger emphasis on the political aspects that informed Dylan's artistry (14:53).

Conclusion on "A Complete Unknown"

Overall, Pop Culture Happy Hour hosts and guests agree that "A Complete Unknown" is a well-crafted biopic that offers a fresh perspective on Bob Dylan's rise to fame. While it magnificently captures the energy of live performances and features standout acting, particularly from Chalamet and Barbaro, it also falls into some familiar biopic traps and misses opportunities to delve deeper into Dylan's political influences.

Stephen Thompson recommends the film despite its minor shortcomings, stating, "I come down recommending it" (18:41), and encourages listeners to share their thoughts via Facebook and Letterboxd.

What's Making Us Happy This Week

Transitioning from the film discussion, the podcast shifts to the beloved segment "What's Making Us Happy," where each participant shares personal sources of joy.

• Bidatri D. Chaudhary: Excited about Joan Baez's latest poetry collection, When You See My Mother, Ask Her to Dance. Chaudhary highlights how the book reflects Baez's journey through mental illness and healing, appreciating the emotional depth and beauty of the poems (21:04).

• Chris Klimek: Recommends Pete Seeger's Traditional Christmas Carols (1967), praising its heartfelt and earnest renditions of holiday classics. Klimek shares his tradition of creating mixtapes and finds Seeger's collection a fitting and sincere addition to his seasonal playlist (22:27).

• Stephen Thompson: Celebrates the arrival of Defector's holiday tradition, Drew McGarry's The Hater's Guide to the Williams Sonoma Catalog. Thompson describes McGarry's humorous and critical take on the catalog's offerings, finding it a perfect antidote to a challenging year (23:30).

Closing Remarks

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks to the guests and a nod to upcoming content. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the hosts on social media and subscribe to the newsletter for more recommendations and insights.

Notable Quotes:

• Chris Klimek (05:11): "What cultural object of the 20th century has been more covered than Bob Dylan?"

• Stephen Thompson (08:23): "She [Monica Barbaro] is an absolute revelation for me."

• Christine Klimek (14:05): "This is a depiction that doesn't feel like an impersonation."

• Bidatri D. Chaudhary (06:12): "The music is great, so you don't feel the almost two and a half hour runtime."

• Stephen Thompson (18:41): "I come down recommending it."

This comprehensive discussion not only provides an in-depth analysis of "A Complete Unknown" but also highlights the enduring legacy of Bob Dylan and the influential figures around him. Additionally, the "What's Making Us Happy" segment offers a personal glimpse into the hosts' lives, celebrating the cultural artifacts and creations that bring them joy.