Watch Bob Dylan: Shadow Kingdom

Bob Dylan: Shadow Kingdom is a concert film that captures the legendary singer-songwriter's first performance in more than a year. Directed by Alma Har'el and produced by Amazon Studios, the film was recorded at the historic Tulsa, Oklahoma theater, The Orpheum, and features Dylan performing a selection of his songs in a unique and intimate format.

The film opens with a shot of a red velvet curtain, which slowly opens to reveal a stage set with a small piano and a microphone. Dylan appears, seemingly out of nowhere, dressed in a white suit and fedora, and begins to play. The camera switches between wide shots of the stage and close-ups of Dylan's face as he sings with his characteristic gruffness and enigmatic poise.

The songs are drawn from across Dylan's vast catalog, including classics like "Tombstone Blues," "It's All Over Now, Baby Blue," and "Forever Young," as well as deeper cuts like "Queen Jane Approximately" and "Pledging My Time." Dylan's arrangements are stripped down and sparse, featuring only his own piano playing and the soft accompaniment of a small band that includes guitar, bass, drums, and violin.

While Dylan doesn't say much beyond introducing some of the songs, his body language and facial expressions convey a sense of deep focus and intensity. He nods his head slightly to the music, sometimes closing his eyes as he sings. He rarely smiles, even during the more upbeat numbers, but there's a palpable sense of joy in his performance that suggests he's glad to be back on stage.

The film is shot in black and white, which gives it a timeless quality and highlights the stark beauty of the Orpheum's architecture. The lighting is also minimal, with Dylan mostly illuminated by a single overhead bulb that casts dramatic shadows across his face and body. The effect is moody and atmospheric, with the darkness around him only emphasizing the power of his voice and presence.

One of the most striking aspects of the concert is the sense of intimacy it creates. Despite the grandeur of the Orpheum, Dylan's performance feels like it's taking place in a small club or living room. The camera angles and lighting help to create this effect, as does the fact that there's no audience present. While it's clear that the film was made during the COVID-19 pandemic, the absence of a crowd doesn't feel like a loss, but rather a deliberate choice that serves to accentuate the intimacy of the performance.

Overall, Bob Dylan: Shadow Kingdom is a beautiful and poignant tribute to one of the greatest songwriters of all time. It captures Dylan at his most enigmatic and compelling, using minimalism and intimacy to showcase his talent and mystique. Whether you're a lifelong fan or a newcomer to his music, this film is a must-see for anyone who loves great songwriting and performance.

Bob Dylan: Shadow Kingdom is a 2023 music movie with a runtime of 50 minutes.