The new biopic A Complete Unknown, directed by James Mangold, has generated significant buzz as it recounts Bob Dylan’s early years leading up to his tumultuous 1965 performance at the Newport Folk Festival. The film not only highlights Dylan's shift from acoustic folk to electrified rock but also places notable emphasis on the character of Toshi Seeger, played by actress Eriko Hatsune, whose historical significance might be lost on many but is undeniably pivotal to the folk music narrative.
The title A Complete Unknown is drawn from the iconic line of Dylan's song “Like A Rolling Stone,” performed at Newport, encapsulating his groundbreaking shift. Toshi Seeger, wife of folk icon Pete Seeger, is portrayed as the anchor of the Seeger household, where Dylan found support and mentorship. Notably, Toshi’s role transcends simple domesticity; she was instrumental in establishing the Newport Folk Festival and producing Pete’s television show Rainbow Quest—significant contributions to the folk movement.
Despite her prominence, some critics have raised eyebrows at her limited dialogue. Merrill Markoe, writing on her blog, expressed her confusion: “Why are we seeing so much of a character who never speaks a word? If she is not important enough to have any lines, why is she also so omnipresent?” This raises pivotal questions about representation and the weight of silent characters, particularly for women and minorities.
Edward Renehan, Jr., who knew the Seegers well, contested the film’s portrayal, asserting, “Toshi was nothing like depicted in the film. She was a force of nature. She was not an adoring Stepford wife.” Such reflections suggest the film may downplay the true dynamism and depth of Toshi Seeger’s character—one who played not just a supportive role but was also deeply involved with the folk revival and civil rights activism.
Conversely, the film's narrative draws back from the politically charged atmosphere of the 1960s, focusing more on personal relationships than the socio-political climate. Joan Baez, who is vividly represented but with less complexity, was also entwined with Dylan’s evolution. She reportedly hoped Dylan would carry the torch for political activism, famously stating, “I wanted him to be a political spokesperson… to be on our team.” Baez’s involvement with leftist causes contrasts with the film's portrayal, which focuses less on the transformative political environment of the time.
The crux of A Complete Unknown lies within Dylan’s unprecedented move to electric music, which catalyzed controversy within the folk community. The film depicts the uproar during his Newport performance, where dedicated folk artists, including Pete Seeger, expressed disbelief and disappointment. Critically, Irwin Silber, editor of Sing Out!, voiced concerns over Dylan abandoning political content, arguing, “The words [matter] less than the beat… what he used to stand for was much clearer than what he stands for now.” This tension encapsulates the divide within the folk movement at the time.
Dylan remained unapologetic about his artistic evolution, even downplaying his former political message. “I’m not politically inclined,” he told interviewers, emphasizing his desire to prioritize music over ideology. This sentiment reflects a broader existential question within art: can musicians retain their voice and authenticity amid political pressure?
While the film features Toshi Seeger’s pivotal role, it’s clear the portrayal struggles to capture the full extent of her contributions. Outside the Seeger household, she not only co-founded the Hudson River Sloop Clearwater, aiding environmental activism but also played various roles throughout the civil rights movement, including participating in the historic Selma to Montgomery march.
Critics highlight the film's nostalgic yearning for the era's folk roots and the individual's struggle against the collective ethos of the time. The disconnect between Dylan’s electrified music and the folk purists symbolizes broader tensions within the movement—illustrated poignantly by the attempts to silence him during his set.
Upon exiting the theater, many viewers, including Markoe's 13-year-old daughter, found themselves questioning the turmoil surrounding Dylan’s electric transformation, asking, “So what’s the big deal?” This generational disconnection indicates potential gaps between historical interpretation and contemporary cultural values, prompting discussions on art's relevance to politics today.
While A Complete Unknown strives for authenticity by presenting Dylan’s artistic arc, it misses addressing the complex narratives surrounding his connections with key figures and their shifting political ideals. The film invites renewed discussions on the legacy of folk music, the role of women like Toshi Seeger, and the personal versus political dichotomy faced by artists.
Though imperfections lie within its ambition, A Complete Unknown serves as both celebration and critique of Bob Dylan's legacy, recontextualizing the often-understated yet instrumental figures, including Toshi Seeger, who shaped the narrative of American music. Perhaps this new portrayal signifies the beginning of broader recognition for such historical figures who helped chart the course of folk music and laid the foundation for future generations.