Recently Watched: I’m Not There
I’m Not There directed by Todd Haynes — When I first heard about “I’m Not There,” I was confused. Cate Blanchett plays Bob Dylan?? 
In fact, there are six actors, each performing a version of Dylan’s character at different times in his life. Blanchett’s role is Jude, Dylan at the height of his 60s fame clad in black sunglasses and a suit. Among the other actors are Heath Ledger, Christian Bale and Richard Gere. Even with these male interpretations, Blanchett is the flawless embodiment of Bob Dylan:
Numerous other reviewers have raved about Blanchett’s performance: Newsweek magazine called the performance “so convincing and intense that you shrink back in your seat when she fixes you with her gaze.”
Though the film moves quietly and is sometimes hard to piece together (much like Dylan’s music), “I’m Not There” provides the viewer with an unusual look at this epic poet-musician. It’s been said that this is the only biography Dylan has approved.
7 responses so far
I’ve heard that the movie is supposed to be good, and I want to see it.
I didn’t like it much, I’m afraid, apart from David Cross’ little part as Ginsberg.
I’m a casual Dylan fan, if that, and I thought it tried to be too clever, and was geared solely at Dylanologists (is that the right word?) and it seemed to be saying “Don’t you see? This is about PERCEPTION!” I saw it with a much bigger Dylan fan, who was laughing at all the little metaphors and visual gags.
It wasn’t without *interesting* moments, but I just had the lingering impression that it was trying too hard.
This one is actually always out of my little video store! I saw a clip of Cate Blanchett when she was Oscar nominated for this one, and she looked phenomenal!
I actually watched this last night. It was kinda of like watching abstract art; there were some amazing moments and some times when it was just paint on canvas. Cate Blanchett was amazing as always. I agree with Samir: it seemed to be trying too hard.
i diggg this review and am now adding to the queue!
I really want to see this movie but haven’t gotten around to it yet.
I loved the movie (especially for the small things and the great things :). I also bought the soundtrack, which is great. Something for every mood (favourite song right now: Iron and Wine & Calexico - “Dark Eyes”). Wonderful.