On Christmas Day, cinephiles and Bob Dylan fans alike flooded theaters to see “A Complete Unknown,” which earned a box office profit of $7.2 million on opening day alone.
Timothée Chalamet gives an electric performance as Dylan, portraying both his signature hardheadedness and authenticity in his music. With a background in musical theater, it’s no surprise Chalamet was able to capture Dylan’s distinctive gravelly voice. Many of his classic hits are heard throughout the film, including “Like a Rolling Stone” and “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right.”
Chalamet’s performance is complemented by a talented supporting cast, playing the roles of musicians like Joan Baez (Monica Barbaro), Woody Guthrie (Scoot McNairy), Pete Seeger (Edward Norton), and Johnny Cash (Boyd Holbrook).
The film is based on the 2015 book “Dylan Goes Electric!” by Elijah Wald. It centers on his controversial performance at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival, which turned his career upside down. When Dylan picked up the electric guitar instead of the acoustic, audiences were shocked. Breaking the rules of the festival, he outraged both his team and fans. While some enjoyed the new sound he brought, many believed Dylan “abandoned” the sound that made him famous. However, this did not stop him, and he continued to play despite the cries of protest and objects being thrown at him on stage.
Director James Mangold chose to focus on this pivotal moment in Dylan’s career, as it highlights his unwavering authenticity and dedication to his sound. Despite external expectations, Dylan stayed true to himself, playing the music he believed in. While Dylan himself was not directly involved in the filmmaking process, he reportedly gave input and access to his story in order to ensure a more authentic portrayal.
In addition to his change in sound, an important element of Dylan’s story and real life is his advocacy for social and political change. As featured in the film, his music became anthems for movements like civil rights and anti-war efforts, giving his work a historical significance that continues to inspire.
Amidst his journey as an up-and-coming musician and activist, Dylan becomes tangled in a love triangle between Sylvie Russo (Elle Fanning)—based on Dylan’s real-life partner at the time, Suze Rotolo—and Joan Baez. The complex relationships he has with both women provide an interesting look into Dylan’s character, showing how he navigates his love life alongside his music career.
The film depicts Dylan and Russo’s relationship as complicated and strained, highlighting Russo’s internal conflict regarding Dylan’s rising fame and his affair with Baez. This dynamic adds depth to her character, showcasing her struggle between admiration and resentment. While it is clear that Dylan’s erratic behavior takes a toll on Russo’s mental well-being, Fanning portrays her as a strong, powerful woman who knows when it’s time to take a step back and choose herself.
Similarly, Barbaro’s portrayal of Baez is layered and authentic. She is able to capture Baez’s strong morals and artistic integrity, always remaining true to who she is. Barbaro excelled at portraying Baez’s free-spirited nature and delivering her hauntingly beautiful vocals. Her multiple duets with Chalamet throughout the film, such as “Girl from the North Country” and “It Ain’t Me Babe,” resonate with audiences not only because of their flawless blend of vocals but also because of both of their abilities to capture the profound musical connection and complex feelings between their two characters.
UMass Boston professor and executive editor of the “Dylan Review,” Paul Haney, had a chance to see an early screening of the film back in December.
“I thought Chalamet’s treatment was subtle and powerful,” he said. “He really captured that dazed look of confusion Dylan can wield before saying or singing the most devastating thing you’ve ever heard.”
When asked why so many people are drawn to Dylan’s music, Haney said, “Bob Dylan learned very early in his career how to pull in a crowd. It was a necessity on the streets and coffeehouses of Greenwich Village, where passersby had so many musical acts to pay attention to. He sings loudly and strangely and plays with urgency, and his songwriting is bold and unflinching.”
It isn’t necessarily Dylan’s voice that draws in listeners like many other musicians; rather, it’s his poetic songwriting, pure authenticity of unpolished vocals, and raw delivery.
“Beyond that, he takes preexisting musical forms, such as folk, blues, gospel, and rock and roll, and blends them together to make something fresh and new, so people want to lean in and hear these innovations,” Haney added.
Haney highlighted several powerful scenes that left a strong impression on him while watching the film. “I got teary-eyed watching the Dylan character play ‘Song for Woody’ at Woody Guthrie’s bedside—what an amazing and real moment that must’ve been, and to see it reenacted gave me chills.”
Whether you’re a lifelong Dylan fan or new to his legacy, “A Complete Unknown” proves that his music is as timeless as the answers still “blowin’ in the wind.”