A Complete Unknown (2024) - A Guest Review by Chad Dixon

Currently in cinemas (and now some streaming services) Cert 15. First thing is: You really do have to not hate traditional American folk and acoustic music of the mid 20th Century. Otherwise, the entire cast in this James Mangold directed biopic of Robert Zimmerman nay Bob Dylan's life at the start of the 1960's, nail all their performances.

From Timothée Chalamet in the lead, Monica Barbaro as the sweet songbird, Joan Baez to Edward Norton as Traditional Folk Stalwart, Pete Seeger. Many of the main cast learned to play their instruments to assist the authenticity.

This purely chronologically told story is literally peppered with live performances of some of most memorable acoustic led songs of that era. We follow Bob from his early twenties as he is introduced to the New York folk scene by Mr Seeger.

First playing covers but soon his self-penned lyrics get recognised for their cutting pertinence and outstanding depth. As his fame grows he begins to neglect and annoy people close to him including his on and off girlfriend, Sylvie Russo, Elle Fanning and particularly his stage co-performer and lover, Baez.

Early 1960's Greenwich Village, NY is depicted with meticulous detail. From the many classic automobiles, shop fronts and countless beatniks busking on street corners, the viewer is totally immersed in the popular culture of the time. The 2h 20m run time did not feel at all long as every morsel of the lush visuals and THOSE SONGS kept me transfixed.  Definitely one of the best musical biopics!