Bob Dylan finds himself on the pavement, deeply absorbed in thoughts about the government — and you have the opportunity to listen in this Saturday night at Ragtag Cinema.
The legendary director D.A. Pennebaker‘s seminal work, “Don’t Look Back,” a documentary released in 1967 that chronicles the life and career of the American rock icon Bob Dylan, will kick off the indie cinema’s exciting new Direct Cinema: Then and Now miniseries.
Pennebaker’s film intricately navigates the transitional phase between two pivotal periods in Dylan’s artistic journey: the raw, acoustic beginnings and the electrifying evolution that followed, as detailed on Ragtag’s website.
This groundbreaking documentary trails Dylan during his iconic 1965 tour across England, featuring appearances by fellow artists like Donovan and Joan Baez, showcasing intimate performances and — perhaps most memorably — the renowned cue-card performance of Dylan’s revolutionary song “Subterranean Homesick Blues.”
The impact of the film is significant, evidenced by its profound influence on cultural commentary in the years that followed. Acclaimed film critic Roger Ebert praised “Don’t Look Back” as having “invented the rock documentary,” while Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain regarded it as possibly the sole exemplar of a high-quality film in its genre.
Cultural references to “Don’t Look Back” reverberate through various projects, including the mockumentary “This is Spinal Tap,” the show “Documentary Now,” and a multitude of music videos that have drawn inspiration from the “Subterranean Homesick Blues” segment.
The Direct Cinema: Then and Now series will forge a connection between two significant films, including “Don’t Look Back” and Robert Kolodny’s upcoming work “The Featherweight,” which is set to screen on November 13.
“This series unites two exemplary works of Direct Cinema, a distinctive approach to documentary filmmaking where creators strive to uncover Truth through Cinema while utilizing innovative technologies developed in the late 1950s,” as the Ragtag website articulates.
Kolodny’s film is a 2024 production, expertly crafted and edited by esteemed filmmaker Robert Greene, who is also a faculty member at the University of Missouri. This narrative expands on the themes associated with Direct Cinema ideals.
“This series brings these two films together to reflect upon the impact of Direct Cinema and the meaning of truth and authenticity in filmmaking,” highlights the Ragtag site.
“Don’t Look Back” is scheduled for screening at 6 p.m. this Saturday. To learn more, visit https://ragtagcinema.org/film/dont-look-back/.
Aarik Danielsen is the features and culture editor for the Tribune. Contact him at adanielsen@columbiatribune.com or by calling 573-815-1731. He’s on Twitter/X @aarikdanielsen.
**Interview with Music and Film Expert, Dr. Jane Stokes, on D.A. Pennebaker’s “Don’t Look Back”**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Stokes! As we approach the screening of D.A. Pennebaker’s documentary ”Don’t Look Back” this Saturday at Ragtag Cinema, can you share your thoughts on its significance in the world of music documentaries?
**Dr. Stokes:** Absolutely! “Don’t Look Back” is truly a landmark film that not only chronicled Bob Dylan’s world during his 1965 tour but also redefined what a documentary could be. Pennebaker’s approach was raw and intimate, giving audiences an unprecedented look at Dylan both on and off stage.
**Interviewer:** The film marks a pivotal moment in Dylan’s career, transitioning from his acoustic roots to an electric sound. How does this evolution reflect in the documentary?
**Dr. Stokes:** That’s a great point! Pennebaker captures this transitional phase brilliantly. You can see Dylan grappling with his identity and the expectations of fame. The footage of him performing “Subterranean Homesick Blues,” especially with the cue cards, symbolizes a break from tradition and highlights his innovative approach to songwriting and performance.
**Interviewer:** Critics have often noted the film’s impact on cultural commentary. Why do you think “Don’t Look Back” resonates so strongly with audiences even today?
**Dr. Stokes:** The film broke new ground in the genre of rock documentaries. Roger Ebert’s description of it as having “invented the rock documentary” speaks volumes. It not only tells Dylan’s story but also captures the spirit of the 1960s—an era filled with social upheaval and artistic revolution. This blend of personal and cultural narrative allows it to resonate across generations.
**Interviewer:** What can viewers expect from the screening at Ragtag Cinema this Saturday?
**Dr. Stokes:** They can expect an immersive experience! The film’s gritty aesthetic and candid moments make you feel like you’re right there with Dylan during his tour. Plus, I encourage everyone to reflect on the era’s music and social dynamics as they watch. It’s more than just a concert film; it’s a cultural artifact.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Stokes, for sharing your insights! We’re looking forward to the screening.
**Dr. Stokes:** My pleasure! I hope everyone enjoys the film and takes a moment to appreciate its historical context.