Timothée Chalamet inhabits the character of Bob Dylan, providing us with an intimate look at the rock icon during his breakthrough period (1961 – 1965). Having spent the pandemic years preparing for this performance, Chalamet hits all the right notes. He does his own singing and guitar- and harmonic-playing and succeeds in channeling Dylan’s rebellious spirit and opportunism. It is not surprising that Chalamet has been nominated for a Golden Globe.

The film opens with Bob Dylan landing in New York at the age of 19 with a guitar and a rucksack. His first task was to visit his musical idol, Woody Guthrie (Scoot McNary), at Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital. We are immediately locked into the story and watch Dylan play a song to Guthrie while folk legend Pete Seeger (Edward Norton) sits nearby. What follows is a quick trajectory to fame for Dylan.

Edward Norton received a Supporting Actor nomination for his excellent portrayal of Pete Seger. Norton shines as he plays against type: an activist and soft-natured father figure to Dylan. Like Chalamet, Norton does his own singing and also plays the banjo.

The supporting cast includes Monica Barbaro as Joan Baez and Elle Fanning as Sylvie Russo, Dylan’s first girlfriend in New York. Barbaro delivers an incredible performance as Dylan’s musical rival and occasional lover. She sees through Dylan’s façade and calls him out for his rudeness. Fanning’s Sylvie evokes our sympathy as we watch her experience a rollercoaster of emotions throughout the film. A scene that tugs at the heartstrings: Joan Baez and Bob Dylan perform the tune “It Ain’t Me Babe” at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival while Sylvie watches.

Spanning over two hours, this well-paced film captivates with its seamless blend of musical performances, intimate moments, and historical context. However, I would have appreciated more insights into Dylan’s early days as Robert Zimmerman in Minnesota, beyond the glimpses offered through scrapbooks. The film has inspired me to read more about 1960s folk music and revisit the iconic tunes that became anthems for the civil rights and anti-war movements.

A strong contender in this year’s award season, A Complete Unknown is a must-see film.