The Circuit

Was one comment overheard as the Telluride crowd exited “I’m Not There,” Todd Haynes’ multi-biopic about Bob Dylan.  Those that were there – that made it to the end of the 2-plus hours – came away confused, troubled, and awed. “I’m Not There” is a remarkable and important film, to be chewed and rechewed.  Haynes shoots Dylan (who had no direct hand in making the film) as someone who’s been gasping for fresh air all of his life.  Public scrutiny made it nearly impossible.  So Dylan shed his skin, destroying/remaking himself over and over.  It’s portrayed as a reflexive, angry response to this hysteria, rather than through some willful artist choice.  He’s pushed and provoked and insulted and glorified, all at once.  And no device says this better than having a solid team of actors inhabit his different lives.  It’s a splendid identity crisis, intensified by Haynes’ nonlinear dream and d.p. Ed Lachman’s (pictured with Haynes) massive tonal changes.  Cate Blanchett is flawless as are the covers of Dylan music by Calexico and Yo La Tango, among others.  The Weinstein Company has it right to open this slowly.  “I’m Not There” is a film to be savored.