Renaldo and Clara *** (1978, Bob Dylan, Sara Dylan, Joan Baez) – Classic Movie Review 6336

‘A Film by BOB DYLAN.’ Bob Dylan is Renaldo and Sara Dylan (Mrs Dylan) is Clara, Ronnie Hawkins is Bob Dylan and Ronee Blakley is Mrs Bob Dylan in director Bob Dylan’s odd 1978 epic concert film, with Joan Baez as the Woman in White and Allen Ginsberg as The Father.

Despite all its many flaws – it is kind of amateurish and plays like a home movie – this is still fascinating, indeed essential viewing for those who care profoundly about Dylan and his music.

The Sixties and Seventies big names and especially the music alone guarantee huge interest and respect.

Also in the film are Jack Elliott, Harry Dean Stanton, Bob Neuwirth, Mel Howard, David Mansfield, Jack Baran, Roberta Flack, Mick Ronson, Sam Shepard, Roger McGuinn, Arlo Guthrie and Joni Mitchell.

It runs 292 minutes (re-cut version is 122 minutes), is written by Bob Dylan and Sam Shepard, is shot by Howard Alk, Paul Goldsmith, Michael Levine and David Myers, and produced by Mel Howard. Naturally, Bob Dylan performs his Blowin’ in the Wind.

Former Playboy model Sara Dylan was married to Bob Dylan from 22 November 1965 till they divorced on 29 June 1977, with four children.

© Derek Winnert 2017 Classic Movie Review 6336

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