A Complete Unknown: Designing Bob Dylan’s 1960s world (Video podcast)

In this episode of The Film and Furniture Podcast, Paula Benson interviews production designer François Audouy about his work on A Complete Known, the film directed by James Mangold and starring Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan.

François takes us behind the scenes of this remarkable film, which captures the cultural revolution of the early 1960s, exploring how music, art, and society collided to shape history.

François shares insights into the creative process of designing iconic sets, from Bob Dylan's meticulously recreated apartment, filled with period-accurate furniture and details, to the authentic feel of iconic folk venues like Gerde’s Folk City.

We also explore the homes of pivotal figures such as Joan Baez, brought to life by Jessica Chastain, and the handcrafted homages to Pete Seeger’s cabin, with François revealing how even cooking a meal on set helped create a truly lived-in atmosphere.

We discuss the influence of Greenwich Village, the authenticity of the Newport and Monterey Folk Festivals, and the role of Columbia Records in showcasing Dylan's transformation as an artist.

With a focus on authenticity, texture, and historical detail, François shares how his team created a world that makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Listen to this episode to uncover how the design of A Complete Known brilliantly brings the spirit of the 1960s to life, and get an inside look at the world of production design for a film that immerses its audience in one of the most transformative times in American culture.

When to Watch/Listen This Video?
You can watch or listen to this video podcast before seeing the film, and it may enhance your viewing experience. However, please note that it contains SPOILERS. If you're sensitive to them, feel free to watch it after you've seen the film—chances are, it might make you want to watch it all over again! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Links mentioned in this video:

Film and Furniture website: https://filmandfurniture.com/

Find furniture, lighting and décor in this film: 
https://filmandfurniture.com/film/a-complete-unknown/

Sign-up to our Newsletter: https://filmandfurniture.com/membership/

Read our feature: https://filmandfurniture.com/2025/02/the-times-they-were-a-changin-the-film-sets-of-a-complete-unknown/

Credits
Film and Furniture Founder/Editor: Paula Benson
Podcast Producer: Suzanne Courage Video/Podcast
Editor: Laura Spini
Graphics: Paul West @Form Design and Branding
With thanks to Searchlight Pictures