"A Complete Unknown" Review & 3 Movies to Watch Instead
Even Timmie cannot overcome industry laziness
SPOILER FREE (I don’t know how I could spoil Bob Dylan’s life)
This Bob Dylan biopic was highly anticipated among fans of the artist and casual moviegoers alike. Several documentaries have attempted to capture the enigmatic musician and tell his story, but the continuing interest in Bob Dylan speaks to his cultural power.
Before continuing, I admit that I am not the world’s biggest Bob Dylan fan. I have a base-level understanding of his music and life. I like his music and understand his cultural importance, but I had not research further prior to seeing A Complete Unknown. This is not the place to be if you are looking for an in-depth analysis of the film’s accuracy. I have done some research, but I will primarily discuss this as a piece of art.
With that perspective in mind, easily the most meaningful part of this film is its performances. Edward Norton’s portrayal of Pete Seeger has not received as much praise as some of his colleagues’, but it was my favorite individual performance of the movie. There is an effortless air to Norton’s Seeger that is authentically touching. His character provides tension and heart in the film. Norton understands his role as a background character, yet he ensures that Seeger provides the necessary emotional weight.
Elle Fanning portrays Bob Dylan’s longtime partner Sylvie Russo with delicacy. She captures Sylvie’s important role in his life while also establishing herself as a strong, creative, independent woman. Fanning makes sure that Sylvie does not fall victim to the artist’s girlfriend/muse trope. Monica Barbaro stuns as singer/songwriter — and occasional lover of Dylan — Joan Baez. Barbaro’s acting performance is perfectly fine, but what sets her apart is the way she captures Joan Baez’s unique singing voice and stage presence. Baez is a singular talent, but Barbaro comes as close as possible.
Despite these women’s talents, the performance everyone came for was Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan. This is a challenging role, to say the least, as Bob Dylan remains an illusive, larger-than-life figure to this day. Chalamet articulated in his press tour that he understood this task’s weight, which certainly comes through in his performance. He captures Dylan’s essence as a pop culture figure without wandering into SNL impression territory. Chalamet’s persona colors his version of Dylan, but that only makes it feel all the more genuine. While no one can replicate Bob Dylan’s voice, Chalamet manages to seize the essential aspects while making it his own. This is not an impression of Bob Dylan; it is truly Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan.
If not for the performances, this movie might fall flat. It is constructed competently, with a solid script and production design. The narrative structure is sound and maintains enough accuracy for the average viewer.
However, I found myself asking why A Complete Unknown needed to be made. The literal answer is that director James Mangold enjoyed making the Johnny Cash biopic Walk the Line and wanted to do something similar. But as a viewer, it has no reason for being. Sure, movies can just be fun projects, but I cannot help but think of all the ways this project could have done more. The period of time in covers — roughly 1961-1965 — is arguably the most talked about chapter of Dylan’s life. The film does not add anything new nor try to analyze Bob Dylan beyond his established persona.
Honestly, it felt more like a platform for Dylan’s music merged with a Wikipedia page than a movie. The most praise I can give is that it was entertaining, and I enjoyed the musical performances.
So much media falls flat because its makers are afraid to take risks. Unless a piece of media can rely on famous people or known IP, it is a hard sell to production companies and audiences. While a brainless, fun movie is not a bad thing on its own, too much of one thing is not good for the industry. I know this take can sound pretentious, but I promise I am a Disney, Star Wars, and rom-com-loving gal.
After watching A Complete Unknown, I recommend you skip it. Trust that Timmie is as good as everyone says, listen to some Bob Dylan albums if you so desire, and watch these three movies from 2024 that are adding to the conversation instead:
Sing Sing, directed by Grew Kwedar
WHAT IS IT ABOUT?: A group of incarcerated men build bonds and grow as people through a theater group inside the prison.
WHY YOU SHOULD SEE IT: It is incredibly heartwarming and provides a unique perspective. Most of the actors are formerly incarcerated men who were a part of the real-life theater group.
Twisters, directed by Lee Isaac Chung
WHAT IS IT ABOUT?: A young woman is scarred by a traumatic experience with a tornado but finds herself called back to Oklahoma when an old friend needs her help.
WHY YOU SHOULD SEE IT: It is SO much FUN. Also, Glen Powell is a handsome cowboy.
Problemista, directed by Julio Torres
WHAT IS IT ABOUT?: An aspiring designer and immigrant navigates life trying to find and keep a job in New York City while dealing with his eccentric boss.
WHY YOU SHOULD SEE IT: The story is wacky and unique but astoundingly human. The main character’s story is deeply relatable, echoing the feelings many people have but do not share.