Monica Barbaro's portrayal of folk music icon Joan Baez in the new film A Complete Unknown is receiving acclaim not just for its authenticity, but also for its heartfelt tribute to one of the most significant figures in American music history. Barbaro, known for her nuanced performances, committed herself completely to embodying Baez, embracing not only her music but the emotional weight of her legacy.
Barbaro shared with Yahoo Entertainment her deep connection to Baez's music, stating, "I had pored over her music and we were starting to film already when I started having dreams about her — specifics about meeting her. We always had a really good time! I would wake up in a good mood. I think my subconscious was trying to tell me it would be OK." Those dreams mirrored the preparation she underwent for the role, as she immersed herself deeply in Baez’s life and artistry.
The narrative of A Complete Unknown revolves around the rise of Bob Dylan, played by Timothée Chalamet, and his passionate yet complicated relationship with Baez. This interplay is pivotal, as Dylan's refusal to conform shaped the course of American music, with Baez at his side both romantically and professionally. Barbaro's preparation involved not just acting but also learning to sing and play guitar authentically—which even posed significant challenges for her. "I didn’t play guitar at all," Barbaro admitted to the Marin Independent Journal. "Joan’s fingerpicking style is so intrinsic, so specific, and I had no experience at all with it."
Her commitment to learning the intricacies of Baez's guitar technique was evident; she often practiced with a metronome, embodying the painstaking effort required to master Baez's style. Barbaro recalled, "I would have a metronome at snail’s pace to even get two fingers to pluck strings at the same time." This rigorous training, coupled with the fact she performed alongside many seasoned musicians, added to her trepidation. "Singing in front of those people was terrifying, intimate, and vulnerable. It was incredibly challenging," she reflected.
Barbaro's initial five months of preparation faced disruption due to the Writers Guild of America strike, which halted many productions. “We had to put pencils down, stop, and not train with our coaches," she stated to Cosmopolitan. "But I had the time to continue working on the music alone. For me, the emotional challenge to sing was substantial because it felt very intimate.” Yet, this time was not squandered; instead, it became pivotal for her growth as she worked to align her voice with what she perceived as characteristic of Baez.
During her conversations with Baez, who was generous with insights about her life, Barbaro felt reassured. "It felt like it was the right thing to do,” she said of reaching out to the iconic singer. "It really hit me when she first said hello. I crossed some kind of threshold after speaking to her. She said she had been hoping I would reach out.” This pivotal moment cemented Barbaro's approach and emotional commitment to the role, pushing her to strive for authenticity.
Barbaro not only had to mimic Baez’s voice but also successfully deliver her signature style of guitar play. This involved using period-accurate instruments, which for Baez, included the iconic 1929 Martin 0-45. Edward Norton, who played Pete Seeger, humorously encouraged Barbaro to “steal” the guitar, highlighting the camaraderie among the cast. The film’s music is not just background but is woven deeply through its narrative, demanding the actors exhibit genuine musical skills, which Barbaro approached with discipline and enthusiasm.
Interestingly, Barbaro's transition from novice to performer reflects Baez's own artistic development. Despite past insecurities, Barbaro appears determined to continue her musical education. Refusing to take the guitar from the set, she expressed hopes about advancing her skills: "I’m thinking of following Bob Dylan's path and going electric." Timothée Chalamet rhythmically engaged with the guitar as well, approaching lessons with a modest $200 Yamaha, tackling Dylan's most challenging melodies, showcasing the dedication shared among the cast.
Barbaro's performance has opened doors not only for her but also for fans new to Baez’s music, amplifying its significance to the cultural narrative surrounding folk music. A Complete Unknown successfully revives interest, bridging gaps between generations. Monica Barbaro’s ability to encapsulate Joan Baez’s essence breathes new life to historical narratives, allowing contemporary audiences to connect emotionally with the legacy of Baez and the music of the era.
The film is now available on video on demand, positioning it as not only a tribute to folk history but also as a piece to inspire and engage a younger generation with its iconic sound and storytelling.