wonderful!!

Rating: 8/10 (12 February 2008)

For forty years Bob Dylan has refused to allow any dramatic documentation of his life. As with his career as a singer, writer and artist, he did not want to be pigeonholed. But with director Todd Haynes he seems to have met the perfect match.
Rejecting the conventional style of biography, Haynes discards chronology in favour of an abstract and experimental work of art. His decision to cast seven actors to portray the various aspects and influences of Dylan's life is ingenious. Throughout the film, a dream-like atmosphere is maintained, sending the audience on a roller-coaster ride that whilst confusing feels authentic and invigorating.
The most remarkable performance is by Cate Blanchet, who plays the unpredictable and tormented Dylan during his 60s tour of England. The puzzle of Dylan's life is never solved and it's this illusiveness that that makes this production unforgettable.
It comes as a given that the soundtrack is noteworthy. However, it's the use of Dylan's seldom known tracks instead of well established hits that complements this daring 135 minutes. The title itself is that of an unreleased song.
I don't want to, but if I had to find a fault it would be Richard Gere's performance as Billy the Kid. It felt strained and didn't gel quite as flawlessly as the rest. Then again, it may be yet another ingredient in this creative conundrum.
Weird doesn't begin to cover it, but wonderful does. While it may not be to everyone's tastes, I personally think everybody can benefit from seeing I'm Not There.
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