Monica Barbaro Portrays Joan Baez in Biopic

Monica Barbaro stars as Joan Baez in the new biopic 'A Complete Unknown,' showcasing her singing and guitar skills, a significant challenge given her limited musical background. Directed by James Mangold, the film explores the early romance between Baez and Bob Dylan, portrayed by Timothée Chalamet, and highlights Baez's pivotal role in Dylan's career. Barbaro's casting journey began in March 2020, and she found inspiration in Baez's music while preparing for the role, leading to a transformative experience. A key moment for Barbaro was a phone call with Baez, which helped her connect with the character on a deeper level. The film, released on December 25, 2024, aims to portray Baez not just as a love interest but as an influential artist in her own right. Critics have praised Barbaro's performance for capturing Baez's essence with both tenderness and musical authenticity.