A Complete Unknown

"🌟7/10🌟 A Complete Unknown captures Bob Dylan’s dramatic transformation from a Woody Guthrie-inspired folk singer in 1961 to a rebellious rock star by 1965, while also delving into his complex relationship with Joan Baez. The movie also paints a vivid picture of Dylan’s genius and flaws, as well as the toll his brilliance took on those around him. #music #biopic #rockandroll #folkmusic #History #BobDylan #JoanBaez #60sMusic #Culturalicons #Musicicons ▪️MY TAKE: Embarrassingly, I didn’t even realize Bob Dylan was still alive! (I had to “Google”)…. He’s famously introverted, a bit of an enigma, and avoids the limelight, which the film captures perfectly— Anyhoo, I wasn’t much of a Dylan fan until he joined The Traveling Wilburys during my coming-of-age years in the late ’80s/early ’90s. That band was stacked with icons: George Harrison (The Beatles), Jeff Lynne (ELO), Roy Orbison (rock ’n’ roll legend), Tom Petty (my fave🫶), and, of course, Dylan. I actually preferred the “sound” of his son Jakob Dylan’s band, The Wallflowers, but after watching this movie, I’ve gained a new appreciation for Bob Dylan’s music and his monumental contributions to #musichistory. His songs—and #folkmusic in general—always sounded more poetic than rock or pop, often reflecting on social and political themes. It’s no surprise he was awarded the #NobelPrize in Literature in 2016! (something else I didn’t know). ▪️ BOTTOM LINE: It’s not as #epic or nearly as thrilling as the Freddie Mercury #biopic, BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY, but it’s definitely informative, and I still enjoyed it."

"This was actually a very good movie overall. This is a very interesting look into the early years of Bob Dylan’s life with particular focus on his early career start. What really stands out is that it does not shy away from showing his negative side either. Phenomenally well acted by the entire cast who do a really good job of inhabiting the characters, with Timothee Chalamet in particular standing out in an Oscar nomination-worthy performance as Bob Dylan (he did a remarkable job of modulating his speaking and singing voice to match Dylan). Special shout out to Edward Norton (really good makeup job to make him look like Pete Seeger), Elle Fanning, and Monica Barbaro as well. A very solid effort from director James Mangold. Worth a watch for sure. Side Note: The fact that this film contains scenes with Johnny Cash was surreal considering the same director also made a Cash biopic (WALK THE LINE) with Joaquin Phoenix and Reese Witherspoon (it is on my watchlist now)."

"7 out of 10"

"At the end of this movie everyone in the theater clapped it was that good. Bob is who he is ,loves to write music and sing. He isn’t in it for fame and fortune. He definitely stands up for injustices. He co wrote the song Hurricane for Ruben Hurricane Carter for his wrongful imprisonment. (In the movie Hurricane) Loved that it was about the beginning of his career. Worth checking out ✌️"

"A Complete Unknown is a 2024 biographical musical drama directed by James Mangold, chronicling Bob Dylan's transformative years from 1961 to 1965. The film stars Timothée Chalamet as Dylan, capturing his evolution from a burgeoning folk artist in New York City's Greenwich Village to his groundbreaking and controversial electric performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival. The narrative delves into Dylan's relationships with key figures of the era, including folk legend Woody Guthrie (portrayed by Scoot McNairy), mentor Pete Seeger (Edward Norton), fellow musician Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro), and muse Sylvie Russo (Elle Fanning). Chalamet's portrayal is noted for its depth, with live performances of over 40 Dylan songs, showcasing his commitment to embodying the iconic musician. For those interested in a pivotal chapter of music history and a nuanced portrayal of Bob Dylan's early career, A Complete Unknown offers an engaging cinematic experience."

"An incredible movie about standing for what you believe in even in the backlash. Bob Dylan started off his career hoping to change the world with his music during a time where difference came with trouble. Dylan's music changed the folk scene and the entire music industry forever. I am so glad I got to watch this movie!"

"I’m from that era and once found Bob Dylan a poetic messiah. I’m glad this movie portrays him as a complete unknown who may take his ideologies less seriously than his fans. This is a heartfelt biopic of the rise of Bob Dylan in NYC. The scenes with Woody Guthrie and Pete Seager pay homage to the rambling spirit. If you’re not a fan of folk, this may make a long two hours and twenty. Film catches a marvelous camaraderie of hippies hanging out in dark, smokey apartments. Truly, something was in the wind then, and this film brings it back. "

"Interesting story about Bob Dylan. Would’ve liked to learn more about his life but he is a prolific writer! "

"Theater"

"Absolutely incredible. Tim plays Bob Dylan so well and the whole cast is outstanding. There was not a single moment where I wasn’t completely invested. 4.5⭐️"