Overall a good film but tried too hard to make its points

Rating: 7/10 (10 January 2008)

To fans of Dylan, Todd Haynes has crafted a solid, watchable film with definite moments of brilliance. Cate Blanchett undoubtedly steals the show with a stunning character performance perfectly capturing Dylan's awkward arrogance during his 1965 UK tour. The style and arrangement of the scenes depicting Dylan's alter ego in the Blanchett and other periods of his life are also conceptually excellent. Haynes' use of subtly abstract visuals, fast paced editing and stylalised cinematography also nicely combine to illustrate and explore the symbolic meaning of Dylan's opinions and lyrics.
Unfortunately other aspects of the film only succeed in distracting from the films generally well constructed core themes. Most scenes do initially give very intelligent, snappy and sensitive insights into the stages of Dylan's life that are portrayed. The success of this style is, however, partially negated by Haynes' incessant need to repeatedly flash back to expand on the details. While this strategy works well in the Blanchett scenes it falls very short with some of the other characters, making the film feel very labored at times. Further compounding this, one has the feeling that Haynes' overindulgence on Dylan fact and symbolism renders the film somewhat esoteric to none but the most ardent fans.
All things considered, 'I'm Not There' does stand as a definite must for Dylan fans. The Blanchett performance alone is enough to carry the film and will certainly be a pleasure for fans and non-fans alike. Musically too the Dylan originals and covers can't help but make for a highly enjoyable experience. Tod Heynes however, while a competent and thorough directer, cannot yet be considered in the top flight of alternative or biopic film makers.