A Complete Unknown: The Bob Dylan film that took Hollywood 1

A Complete Unknown: The Bob Dylan film that took Hollywood by storm

The rise of a music legend

Few names in the music world are as iconic as Bob Dylan. From his poetic lyrics to his exquisite voice, Dylan redefined what it meant to be an artist. Now, his story comes to life in A Complete Unknown, the highly anticipated Bob Dylan film directed by James Mangold and starring Timothée Chalamet.

But does the film capture Dylan’s mysterious genius, or is it playing it safe?

**What Is A Complete Unknown About?**

This Bob Dylan film focuses on his early career, particularly his journey from a small town in Minnesota to the bustling streets of Greenwich Village. The plot focuses on Dylan’s rise in the 1960s folk scene and the pivotal moment at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965, when he famously shocked purists by going “electric” and solidified his reputation as an iconoclast.

Chalamet’s portrayal of Dylan has already been met with much acclaim, with critics and fans praising his ability to portray the musician’s unique charisma and mystery. From Dylan’s soft-spoken demeanor to his sharp wit, Chalamet highlights the contradictions that make Dylan a completely unknown man even today.

**Why A Complete Unknown Is Making Waves**

This unconventional story doesn’t come without risks, however. Critics have noted that while Chalamet shines, the supporting cast and overarching narrative feel formulaic. Joan Baez, Pete Seeger and even Dylan’s girlfriend Sylvie Rousseau appear one-dimensional, lacking the complexity of the real-life characters.

The Bob Dylan Movie Hits Close to Home

For Dylan’s hometown of Hibbing, Minnesota, A Complete Unknown is more than just a movie—it’s a celebration of its most famous son. The town has embraced its association with the music legend with tours of his childhood home, exhibitions at the local library and even naming a street after him.

Though Dylan’s relationship with Hibbing hasn’t always been smooth—he’s left his roots out of his story—locals like retired teacher Craig Hattem consider his Iron Range upbringing central to his identity. Hattem says Dylan’s grit and determination are hallmarks of northeastern Minnesota.

https://www.mprnews.org/story/2024/12/24/hibbing-minnesota-bob-dylan-hometown-new-film-a-complete-unknown

What Makes Dylan a ‘Complete Unknown’?

The title of the film, A Complete Unknown, refers to the opening lyrics of Dylan’s iconic “Like a Rolling Stone.” It reflects the mystery that has always surrounded Dylan’s life and art. Who is Bob Dylan, really? The film doesn’t aim to answer that question, but instead leans toward ambiguity, just like Dylan’s songs do.

Dylan’s ability to reinvent himself over and over again — from folk hero to rock star, convert to Nobel Prize winner — is what makes his story so compelling. He’s never been easy to figure out, and A Complete Unknown strives to honor that spirit.

Why You Should Watch A Complete Unknown

For Dylan fans, A Complete Unknown is a must-watch. It offers a glimpse into the life of one of music’s most influential figures, while also retaining enough mystery to keep you guessing.

And for those new to Dylan’s work, Bob Dylan’s Movie serves as a gateway to his world – a world of poetic lyrics, genre-defying sounds and relentless reinventions.

Whether you’re a die-hard Bob Dylan fan or simply curious to learn what makes Bob Dylan a cultural icon, A Complete Unknown promises an exciting journey through the life of a man who changed music forever.