'A Complete Unknown' movie review: Knockin’ on Dylan’s Door

The Academy Awards never miss a beat when it comes to musical biopics, and ‘A Complete Unknown’ makes it clear that Oscar seemingly reserves a VIP seat for the genre. Directed by James Mangold — no stranger to biopics with ‘Walk the Line’ and ‘Ford v Ferrari’ — this film captures the essence of Bob Dylan’s artistic rebellion.

Timothée Chalamet is eerily spot-on as the enigmatic Dylan, with Edward Norton stepping in as mentor Pete Seeger. Their dynamic? Think Iron Man and Spider-Man, but with folk music instead of superpowers. The film follows Dylan’s journey from his 1961 arrival in New York to busking at open mics, signing record deals, navigating the Cuban Missile Crisis — to the Newport Folk Festival and his meteoric rise in 1965. Like Dylan’s songwriting, the film flows freely, capturing his restless genius.

At its heart, ‘A Complete Unknown’ is a tribute to Dylan’s fearless reinvention — how he broke traditions, defied expectations, and reshaped music history. From winning over folk purists to unapologetically going electric, it embodies an artiste unwilling to stand still. And Chalamet? He doesn’t just play Dylan — he becomes him.

Edward Norton brings his signature depth to Pete Seeger, while Monica Barbaro (Joan Baez), Elle Fanning (Sylvie Russo), and Boyd Holbrook (Johnny Cash) shine in supporting roles. More than just a biopic, ‘A Complete Unknown’ is a celebration of artistic rebellion, elevated by raw performances and electrifying music sequences — a must-watch for Dylan devotees and fans of the
era alike.