A COMPLETE UNKNOWN – A Review by Jenn Rohm
Music is one of the areas where constant change is expected. The challenge is how fans of a particular artist will react when the artist changes their sound. In 1961, Bob Dylan found his way to New York and into the folk music scene. A Complete Unknown tells the story of his entry into becoming known for folk music through his shaking things up in 1965 at the Newport Folk Festival.
The piece has some creative licensing, such as the Sylvie Russo character, who was not real; she combines several women he dated at the time. It hints at Bob Dylan’s true story and the tales about his life growing up he told. Like the “mysterious minstrel” himself, I am left with more questions about who he was before the music.
The cinematography and costuming give the feel of the years covered, and walking out actually took a moment to be back in 2024. Arianne Phillips, costume designer, has spent the last five years researching and learning about Dylan and his wardrobe, and it shows. She had to focus on what was publicly documented, as the film was not provided with access to his personal photos or his wardrobe. Phillips worked with Levi to recreate some of the looks they custom-made, some super hard-to-find pieces, such as Super Slims. It was also announced that there would be a limited-time rerelease of the 1955 501s and the classic suede Trucker jacket he was known to wear.
This is not the type of movie I expect to come out as a holiday release. It is a slower-paced biopic, and many who watch it will know the story and what to expect. Having seen the film, I understand why it was released in time for awards season.
As with other films I have seen this year, there will be fans and followers. I am glad I saw it; it is not near the top of my 2024 list.
Director: James Mangold
Cast: Timothée Chalamet, Elle Fanning, Monica Barbaro
MPAA Rating: Rated R for language.
Selig Rating: 3 stars
Runtime: 2h 21m
Release Date: December 25, 2024
Genre(s): Biography, Drama, Music
Trailer: A Complete Unknown Trailer
The Selig Rating Scale:
5 Stars – Excellent movie/show, well worth the time and price.
4 Stars – Good movie/show
3 Stars – OK movie/show
2 Stars – Well, there was nothing else…
1 Star – Total waste of time.
