With I'm Not There, Todd Haynes has made a truly innovative movie. Though it tells the story of Bob Dylan's life, it is in no way a typical biopic. In fact, the movie has no plot in the traditional sense, and instead consists of a series of episodes about six fictional characters whose lives all mimic a part of Dylan's life. That said, these episodes convey a better sense of Bob Dylan the person than any typical linear narrative possibly could.
In what has to be one of the most unexpected casting choices in recent cinema, Cate Blanchett plays a character whose life parallels Dylan's during his "Like a Rolling Stone" years. Blanchett plays the role unbelievably well, but it's still difficult to separate her from the character. This is a minor complaint, however, and the only negative thing that could be said about the film.
The other characters that parallel an aspect of Dylan's life include a recluse named Riddle (Gere) in a circus-like town and a homeless African-American child (Franklin) who idolizes Woody Guthrie and travels across the country in boxcars. While these two segments leave the most room for interpretation, they are also only second to Blanchett's segment in their ability to captivate the audience.
In addition to the unique story structure, Haynes uses an equally diverse range of cinematography, shooting each story differently. One resembles Fellini's 8 «, while others maintain a more modern look with over-saturated warm colors and a stable camera.
Those looking for the Bob Dylan equivalent to Walk the Line should stay home. Without question, I'm Not There is an avant-garde art film that will appeal to a very limited audience, but rewarding for those open to its style.
