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What I'm about to say will either identify me either as unsophisticated, or a brave and intelligent woman.
I'm Not There is not a very good movie. It has some really great performances, and I do admire its balls-out-of-the-box strivings. But I do think it's possible to strive to storytell in a new way (a way that intends to pay homage to the musical style of a master bull**** artist) and have that storytelling fall flat on its face.
The critics seem to disagree. I am wondering if this is genuine appreciation or Emperor's New Clothes syndrome. In any case, the film seems to be a ride, and either you enjoy it or you don't. If you see it, do go into it with an open mind and prepare for some significant confusion (even if you are familiar with Dylan history.) Because the title is apt - this is a retelling of an enigmatic man who has not been captured in this film any more than in any other interview or documentary. Perhaps that was its point - but I'm not sure I'm willing to spend my time in a quest for someone who's not there.
In other news... I never thought I'd say it, but I think Affleck has a career. And by "Affleck," I mean both Ben (as a director) and Casey (as a leading man.) Gone Baby Gone was terrific. Not flawless, but definitely a sign of great things to come from the brother duo.
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