The renowned musician Neil Young has expressed his admiration for the latest film centered on Bob Dylan's early life. On January 13, Young posted a heartfelt review on his official website, Neil Young Archives. The "Heart of Gold" singer, now 79, shared that he holds Dylan and his music in high regard. He also recounted an amusing anecdote about not recognizing Dylan when they once crossed paths. Young praised the biopic, titled A Complete Unknown, as a fitting tribute to Dylan’s musical legacy and recommended it to fans of Dylan's work. The film, directed by James Mangold, stars Timothée Chalamet as the young Dylan during the pivotal years leading up to his breakthrough at the Newport Folk Festival in 1965.

Young’s relationship with Dylan dates back several decades. The two iconic musicians first met in the 1970s and have shared the stage on multiple occasions. One notable performance was at Bill Graham’s SNACK show in San Francisco in 1975, where they performed together. Another memorable collaboration occurred in 1994 at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City, where Dylan headlined and Young joined him alongside Bruce Springsteen for a rousing finale. Over the years, Young has frequently spoken highly of Dylan, even referring to him as “the master” in a 2005 interview with TIME magazine. Young admired Dylan not only for his songwriting but also for his unwavering commitment to his art.

Young’s comments about the new biopic reflect his deep respect for Dylan’s influence on American music. In the film, Chalamet portrays Dylan during the transformative period of the mid-1960s, capturing the essence of a time when the folk movement was gaining momentum. The movie delves into Dylan’s early relationships and his decision to move beyond the folk scene, which had a profound impact on both his career and the broader cultural landscape. Young’s endorsement adds significant weight to the film’s reception, especially among longtime fans of both artists.

Young’s reflections on Dylan highlight the enduring impact of the latter’s work on generations of musicians. By praising A Complete Unknown, Young underscores the importance of understanding Dylan’s formative years, a time when he was shaping the future of American music. The film offers viewers a glimpse into the mind of a young artist who would go on to revolutionize the industry. Through Young’s words, it becomes clear that Dylan’s legacy continues to inspire and resonate with those who follow in his footsteps.