A Complete Unknown

20242h 20m Directed by James Mangold
7.1
(1177 votes)
DramaMusic

Overview

New York, early 1960s. Against the backdrop of a vibrant music scene and tumultuous cultural upheaval, an enigmatic 19-year-old from Minnesota arrives in the West Village with his guitar and revolutionary talent, destined to change the course of American music.

A Complete Unknown

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CAST

Timothée Chalamet
Timothée Chalamet
Bob Dylan
Edward Norton
Edward Norton
Pete Seeger
Elle Fanning
Elle Fanning
Sylvie Russo
Monica Barbaro
Monica Barbaro
Joan Baez
Scoot McNairy
Scoot McNairy
Woody Guthrie
Dan Fogler
Dan Fogler
Albert Grossman
Boyd Holbrook
Boyd Holbrook
Johnny Cash
Will Harrison
Will Harrison
Bob Neuwirth
Joe Tippett
Joe Tippett
Dave Van Ronk
Eriko Hatsune
Eriko Hatsune
Toshi Seeger

A Star is Born in the City that Never Sleeps

WatchListHQSep 4, 2025
A Complete Unknown is a cinematic ode to the transformative power of music, set against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s New York City. The film tells the story of a young musician from Minnesota who arrives in the West Village with a guitar and a dream, destined to leave an indelible mark on the American music scene. With its talented cast, impeccable production design, and a narrative that masterfully captures the essence of a bygone era, A Complete Unknown is a must-watch for music lovers and fans of period dramas.

The film's greatest strength lies in its ability to transport viewers to a pivotal moment in American cultural history, when the folk music scene was on the cusp of revolutionizing the music industry. The cinematography is breathtaking, with the West Village's iconic streets, cafes, and music venues recreated in meticulous detail. The soundtrack, featuring a mix of original compositions and period-specific classics, is equally impressive, perfectly capturing the spirit of an era that was both tumultuous and transformative. The lead actor delivers a standout performance, bringing a depth and nuance to the protagonist that makes his journey feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Despite its many strengths, A Complete Unknown is not without its flaws. At 140 minutes, the film feels slightly overlong, with some scenes feeling like they could have been trimmed to improve the overall pacing. Additionally, some of the supporting characters feel somewhat one-dimensional, lacking the depth and complexity of the protagonist. However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise outstanding film. Overall, A Complete Unknown is a powerful and moving tribute to the enduring power of music, and the ways in which it can change our lives and shape our culture. With its talented cast, stunning production design, and a narrative that will resonate with audiences long after the credits roll, A Complete Unknown is a film that will leave viewers spellbound and eager for more.

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