Opening 28 Feb 2008
Directed by:
Todd Haynes
Writing credits:
Todd Haynes, Oren Moverman
Principal actors:
Cate Blanchett, Ben Whishaw, Christian Bale, Richard Gere, Marcus Carl Franklin
Director Todd Hayne in his uncanny presentation of one of the most revered musicians of all time, Bob Dylan, in I’m Not There, confirms that no one can fully or accurately describe the iconic celebrity. The unique Dylan style is an accumulation he alone has gathered, thus far, through his own life long journey which has, "always been a' changing".
Hayne creatively chooses six actors to stage characters of influence that, in part, formed the distinctive Dylan technique that sets him apart from so many musicians. Woody (Marcus Carl Franklin) is loved for his obsession with folk music. Arthur (Ben Wishaw) is respected for his grip of lyrical poetry. Jack Rollins (Christian Bale) is loved for the impact his folk songs mobilized a whole generation of protesters. Robbie (Heath Ledger) and his marriage to Claire (Charolette Gainsbourgh) is a reality bite due to the pressure of a lifestyle that painfully rips apart that which is meant to be good. Billy (Richard Gere) represents the American Wild West and its history folklores. Jude Quinn (Cate Blanchett) symbolizes the behavior known to many in the 60s involved with substance abuse.
Haynes, along with the well-known actor Kris Kristofferson and acclaimed cinematographer Edward Lachman, eloquently narrate in word and imagery the multi-faceted persona of the musician Bob Dylan. Their homage to Dylan, in spite of their bizarre form of storytelling, exemplifies Dylan’s authenticity, his longevity and uncanny (use the word peculiar in place of uncanny) personality to be sure to will forever be emulated. However, when his lifetime achievements are most honored, he just might, Not Be There! (Karen Pecota)
